Upgrading your hot water system is a smart move – especially with energy prices rising and better technology now available. But Queenslanders are now facing a different landscape than just a year or two ago – some popular state rebates have now ended. But others remain active at the federal level! So – are you planning to upgrade hot water system components this year?
If so, it’s more important than ever to plan carefully and avoid the common traps that homeowners often overlook.
Here’s what you need to know – and 6 things you don’t want to forget when upgrading your hot water system.
But first – A quick note on 2025 incentives
Let’s start with the current incentive situation.
What’s no longer available?: The Climate Smart Energy Savers rebate from the Queensland Government – which offered up to $1,000 for approved solar or heat-pump upgrades – closed in mid-2024 and is no longer accepting applications. If you missed it, you’re not alone.
What’s still active?: The federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is still going strong in 2025. It provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for eligible solar and heat-pump hot water systems. Most installers apply these as an upfront discount, reducing the system cost by hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on your setup.
So basically, you can still save – especially if you choose wisely. But what do people so often forget?
1. Checking SRES eligibility
Not every hot water system qualifies for STCs. And surprisingly, many homeowners don’t realise this until after the quote.
To get the STC discount under the SRES, your new system must:
- Be on the Clean Energy Regulator’s list of eligible products
- Be installed by a Clean Energy Council-accredited professional
- Be replacing an existing system in a compliant setup.
If your system doesn’t qualify, you could miss out on thousands in rebates.
PRO TIP: Before committing to a Sunshine Coast hot water installation, double-check that your system appears on the government’s eligibility register. Or better yet, let a professional plumber – like Static Plumbing – guide you through the process and make sure you’re covered.
2. Choosing the wrong tank size
Another major pitfall? Undersizing – or oversizing – the tank.
Many families assume that bigger is better, but that’s not always true. An oversized tank can waste energy keeping unused water hot. On the flip side, an undersized system can lead to cold showers and overworked components.
Typical guide to get the tank size right:
1-2 people: 160L-250L
3-4 people: 250L-315L
5+ people: 315L-400L+
But it’s not just about the number of people – it’s also about usage habits, appliance efficiency, and water pressure.
PRO TIP: Talk to a licensed plumber who can calculate your true hot water system tank size needs based on lifestyle – not just household size.
3. Assuming all systems work with existing pipes
Your current setup may not be compatible with your upgrade choice.
For example, switching from electric storage to a heat pump hot water system or gas unit may require:
- New pipework
- Additional valves or safety devices
- Electrical or gas compliance work
- Drainage for condensate in heat pump units.
These aren’t always included in basic installation quotes, and if they’re missed, they can delay or complicate the install.
PRO TIP: Ask for a full system assessment before booking the job. At Static Plumbing, we include this in every hot water system upgrade consultation – no surprises, no hidden extras.
4. Overlooking water quality and location
Your postcode can influence your system’s longevity. If you live in a hard water or coastal area, corrosion becomes a real concern – especially for steel tank systems.
Likewise, if your system is exposed to harsh sun, rain, or salt air, its housing and fittings need to be rated for your environment.
PRO TIP: In some Sunshine Coast and Brisbane locations, a stainless steel tank or ceramic-lined cylinder may be worth the extra investment. These options handle corrosion better and may last years longer.
5. Missing out on local or retailer-specific incentives
While Queensland’s state-level rebates are closed, some government hot water system upgrade assistance may still be available at the local or utility level.
For example:
- Energex’s PeakSmart program occasionally offers rebates for demand-responsive systems
- Some councils provide support for sustainable upgrades under environmental programs.
These smaller incentives may not be advertised widely, so they’re easy to miss.
PRO TIP: Ask your installer to check for current promotions or council rebates. The Static Plumbing team keeps track of these so you don’t have to.
6. Not factoring in noise (for heat pumps)
Heat pump systems are efficient – but they’re not silent.
If you’re installing one near a bedroom window, neighbouring fence, or apartment wall, it’s worth checking the noise rating. Some units are whisper-quiet, while others can be noticeable during overnight cycles.
PRO TIP: Check the dB rating of any unit and choose one designed for quiet operation – especially if it’ll be installed close to living or sleeping areas.
Bonus – Forgetting to ask about servicing
Even the best system needs occasional maintenance to run efficiently.
A common mistake is assuming new means maintenance-free. In reality, most manufacturers recommend:
- Annual or biennial servicing
- Anode rod checks every 3-5 years (for storage tanks)
- Regular system flushes in hard water areas.
PRO TIP: Ask your plumber for a servicing schedule – and get it done by a licensed professional to preserve your warranty.
Make sure you get the upgrade right!
A hot water upgrade is a chance to lock in savings, improve comfort, and reduce energy use. But only if it’s done right.
From checking rebate eligibility to choosing the right system for your household, there’s more to the decision than just price. That’s where a professional, experienced team makes all the difference.
Need help navigating it all? Here at Static Plumbing, we help homeowners across the Sunshine Coast – from Alexandra Headland, Buderim, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Peregian Beach and beyond – upgrade their hot water systems with confidence. Our licensed plumbers will:
- Recommend eligible systems
- Apply available rebates (like STCs)
- Ensure your home setup is compatible
- Provide transparent, upfront pricing.
Don’t risk an expensive mistake. Instead, reach out to our friendly team today and get expert advice to make your upgrade simple, affordable, and future-ready.
