Northern Beaches solar hot water specialists.
We were recently contacted by a homeowner in Belrose who had suddenly begun running out of hot water. Their rooftop solar hot water system had been extremely reliable for more than a decade, and they mentioned they’d never once run out of hot water, even when extra guests were staying. We arranged to meet them at midday, when they could nip home from work to let us access the property.
Once onsite, we inspected the system and found the cause immediately. The rooftop solar hot water tank had started leaking. Internal corrosion had eaten through the tank, allowing water to escape and run down the roof into the gutters. Because the system was constantly losing water, the tank couldn’t fill properly or retain heat. This meant the household was running out of hot water much faster than usual, even though the solar collectors were still functioning.
Leaking hot water system? Call us 24/7 on 0410 693 532 for fast assistance.

Solar hot water system replacement
On closer inspection, it was clear the homeowner’s old solar hot water system had reached the end of its working life. The tank was heavily corroded and the unit was no longer performing efficiently.
We only advise replacing a system when it is genuinely the most practical and economical option. Unfortunately, once a rooftop storage tank begins to corrode from within, the damage is irreversible. The steel cylinder weakens, leaks become more frequent, insulation deteriorates, and heat loss increases. Temporary fixes are not effective, and the ongoing risk of failure makes replacement the safest and most cost-effective solution.
After discussing the available options, the customer chose a Rheem Hiline Solar Hot Water System with a 300-litre stainless steel tank (Model 52L300).
As solar hot water specialists, we used our lifting equipment to safely remove the old tank from the roof and position the new system in the same location, next to their existing rooftop solar PV panels.
The upgrade provided the home with an efficient, dependable solar hot water supply that integrates seamlessly with their existing solar energy system to reduce running costs.
The benefits of solar hot water heating
Solar water heating is an excellent way for homeowners to reduce energy costs while improving reliability. Modern systems offer stronger solar collection, higher efficiency, and better insulation for consistent heat retention. With a full manufacturer warranty and a long service life, a quality solar system provides peace of mind and ongoing savings.
When connected to a home’s solar PV array, the solar hot water booster can run on free solar electricity, resulting in:
- Lower electricity bills
- Improved system efficiency
- A smaller environmental footprint
- Greater value from the household solar investment
Since installing the new system, this Northern Beaches customer will continue to enjoy dependable hot water all year round, stronger performance, and noticeably reduced operating costs.

Rheem Hiline Solar Hot Water Systems
The Rheem Hiline 52L Series heats water directly as it moves through the solar collectors and returns to the roof-mounted storage tank. The 300-litre model (52L300) suits households of 2–5 people and features a stainless steel tank available in four COLORBOND® colours.
Using rooftop solar PV to minimise running costs
This system includes an electric booster element that activates only when the sun can’t produce enough heat. By connecting the booster to the existing solar PV system, the homeowners now power their hot water using their own solar electricity rather than relying on the grid. Gas boost options are also available.
FEATURES
- Available in four COLORBOND® colours
- Stainless steel storage tank
- Gas or electric boosting for overcast days
- 300L capacity suitable for 2–5 people
- Choice of NPT200, L, or CSA2007 collectors for optimal performance
SPECIFICATIONS
- Model: Rheem 52L300
- Type: Rooftop Solar
- Capacity: 300 litres
- Household size: 2–5 people
- Installation location: Roof-mounted
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty terms vary depending on the collectors selected.
Systems with NPT200 collectors include:
- 7 years cylinder and collector supply
- 3 years cylinder and collector labour
- 1 year parts and labour
Systems with L or CSA2007 collectors include:
- 10 years cylinder and collector supply
- 5 years cylinder and collector labour
- 5 years parts and labour
These warranties apply to single-family domestic installations. Contact us for full details.
We are solar hot water specialists on the Northern Beaches
Call 24/7 for fast help
If your rooftop or split-system solar hot water heater is leaking, not heating properly, or approaching the end of its lifespan, our expert team can help. We repair, service, and replace all major brands including Rheem, Solahart, Rinnai, Apricus, Chromagen, Edwards, and Quantum.
Fast, local support throughout the Northern Beaches
- Based in Warriewood, we offer fast support to customers throughout the Northern Beaches
- Licensed solar hot water specialists authorised by all major brands
- Fast local service with vehicles stocked with thousands of spare parts
- No need for multiple trades – we handle everything from repairs to installation
- 24/7 emergency support for sudden leaks or no-hot-water situations
Whether you’re dealing with a leaking tank, inconsistent hot water, or a system that’s simply too old to repair, our local team of hot water specialists provide fast and professional solar water heating repairs, emergency replacements, and routine servicing. Routine servicing every five years helps extend system life, prevent breakdowns, maintain efficiency, and protect your warranty.
Get in touch
With over 30 years of industry experience, you can rely on Cheapa Hot Water for honest advice, quality workmanship, and prompt service. Call us today for expert help with solar hot water repairs, replacement, or maintenance.

