Tools for plumbers

The following tools are available to help you comply with these requirements:

• the plumber's guide provides details of the water heater and flow-rate requirements
• a step-by-step guide will help you determine the types of water heaters that can be installed in a particular home
• further information on the types of water heaters that meet the full and reduced standard
• information on noise from electric heat pumps
• frequently asked questions
• the SA Water direction, which sets out the requirements for water heaters installed into established homes

Information for plumbers

From 1 July 2008 plumbers licensed to install domestic water heaters in South Australia need to comply with greenhouse gas and flow rate performance rules for water heater installations. The rules are implemented as an SA Water direction under the Waterworks Regulations 1996 and for new homes under an SA variation of the Building Code of Australia.

If you are licensed to install water heaters into South Australian homes, these requirements may see you change the type of hot water systems you install. As such, you may need to source new models of hot water systems and become familiar with their installation.

For the majority of homes in South Australia, when you are asked to install or replace a water heater you will need to determine the type of water heater that can be legally installed. In most homes, you will need to install a water heater that meets the full standard. For others, a reduced standard is available. A small number of installation are exempt from these requirements.

Also when you install or replace a water heaters, you will need to ensure that all shower outlets connected to the installed water heater have a flow rate of nine litres per minute or less.

Plumbers information line

If you have any queries please call the plumbers information line on 1300 883 019.