When a hot water system stops working, most households need it fixed quickly. In a rush, some choose whoever is available—without checking if they’re certified to do the work. This short-term decision can lead to long-term problems.
Unqualified repairs often create hidden risks. A job may look finished on the surface, but internal faults like poor wiring, mismatched parts, or incorrect pressure settings may still exist. These mistakes can cause water damage, energy waste, or safety issues. Fixing these problems later often costs more than doing the job properly the first time.
Hiring a licensed hot water repairer means the job is completed to Australian standards. They understand how to diagnose issues safely, use the correct parts, and confirm settings are correct. Repairs are logged properly and come with documentation to protect warranties and insurance coverage.
What licensing confirms
In New South Wales, only licensed trades can legally repair hot water systems. This includes electrical, plumbing, and gas work. A valid licence proves the person is:
- Registered with the correct authority
- Covered with trade insurance
- Trained through verified qualifications
- Compliant with safety and performance codes
Hiring someone with a licence reduces the chance of poor outcomes and ensures the work can be traced and verified later.
Experience improves system recovery
Someone with years of experience sees patterns others might miss. A dripping valve could signal deeper issues with temperature regulation or blocked internal components. An experienced repairer looks beyond the fault and checks the full system.
They follow the correct process: inspecting fittings, checking electrical input, confirming system capacity, and reviewing part wear. These checks lead to repairs that last, rather than fixes that fail again a few weeks later.
Safety risks from unqualified repair
Hot water systems involve water pressure, electricity, and sometimes gas. Improper handling can cause:
- Overheating or scalding
- Short circuits or fire
- Burst tanks from high pressure
- Carbon monoxide leaks (for gas units)
- Electric shock near wet areas
Licensed repairers test the system before and after service. They use calibrated tools, check for part compatibility, and follow safety codes to protect people and property.
Warranty and insurance protections
Most manufacturer warranties require service to be completed by a licensed professional. If you let someone without a licence work on the system, future claims may be denied—even if the part itself was faulty.
Insurance policies also have terms that link cover to qualified service. If an electrical fire, flood, or structural issue occurs due to poor repairs, your claim may be refused. Using a licensed repairer protects your warranty and insurance position.
Performance and cost benefits
A well-repaired system heats water efficiently, runs safely, and lasts longer. A licensed repairer selects the right part, sets controls accurately, and ensures everything works as it should. This keeps your energy costs stable and reduces the chance of a full replacement.
By contrast, unlicensed work may lead to leaks, cold water, or rising energy bills due to incorrect settings or internal damage. Fixing those issues later often costs more than hiring the right person from the start.
Signs your system needs licensed service
Not every issue means full replacement, but most faults should be checked by someone qualified. These are the most common warning signs:
- No hot water or fluctuating temperatures
- Leaks around the tank or pipe joints
- Hissing, banging, or clicking sounds
- Rusty or discoloured water from taps
- Visible corrosion or burnt parts
- Error codes on digital displays
- Unexplained increase in electricity bills
A licensed repairer can isolate the cause, assess the overall condition, and provide clear next steps.
Why DIY and handymen aren’t safe
Online tutorials and general trades may offer basic advice, but hot water systems are more complex than they appear. Attempting to fix an issue without training can cause more damage or create safety risks. For example:
- Adjusting wiring without isolating power may cause electric shock
- Using the wrong valve can increase internal pressure
- Over-tightening fittings can lead to cracks or future leaks
- Leaving wires exposed risks water contact and fire
Most legal codes prohibit unlicensed repairs, even for simple part replacements. What starts as a quick fix can quickly become a dangerous mistake.
Can a handyman legally fix a hot water unit?
No. In NSW, only someone with a proper trade licence can legally service a hot water system. This includes any work involving water flow, power supply, or gas lines. A handyman—even with experience—cannot perform this work unless they hold the correct licence.
Any work completed without the right credentials may be flagged as non-compliant and could lead to insurance issues, penalties, or denied warranty claims.
How much does licensed repair cost?
Licensed service is based on the type of system, problem severity, and property layout. Common price ranges include:
- Minor part replacement: $150–$250
- Electrical repair: $220–$350
- System flush or cleaning: $180–$250
- Full unit replacement: $1,500 and above (if required)
These prices reflect skilled labour, certified parts, and full compliance. While you might find cheaper options elsewhere, licensed repairs save money by avoiding repeat visits and long-term damage.
Hogan’s advice on hot water repairs
At Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning, we take the time to assess the system, not just the fault. If we find signs of temperature loss, part wear, or unstable pressure, we run full checks before starting any work.
Our team holds all required trade qualifications. We provide service reports after every visit and confirm that all parts meet current standards. Many systems we repair have been affected by rushed, incorrect work—so we approach every job carefully to prevent further problems.
If your system is showing signs of decline or has stopped working, contact us.