Many of Tascott's fibro cottages are still running the electric storage hot water systems
installed at their original build in the 1950s–60s, or at best a unit from the 1980s or
90s. These are well past their design life. Outdoor units on the eastern face of homes
overlooking Brisbane Water are hit hard by salt-laden air that corrodes sacrificial anodes and
tank walls years ahead of schedule.
Outdated electric storage original or 1980s–90s units past design life
#1 issue
Salt air corrosion outdoor tanks facing Brisbane Water corrode faster
Shortened
lifespan
No mains gas in parts of Tascott LPG or electric-only options for many homes
Check
availability
Limited outdoor space compact cottage sites may limit heat pump placement
Site
assessment
Your best system depends on your energy setup, available space, and budget. Here's how the
options stack up for a typical Tascott fibro cottage:
Electric storage like-for-like swap — fastest, lowest upfront
cost
Same day
Heat pump 3×
more efficient, government rebates available
Best value long
term
LPG continuous flow instant hot water, no storage tank needed
Good for LPG
homes
Solar hot water north-facing roof, electric boost, 10+ year ROI
If roof
suitable
A licensed plumber will assess the existing setup, check gas
availability and electrical supply, and recommend the right system for your Tascott home.
Electric storage replacement (supply & install)
$900–$1,400
2–3 hrs
LPG continuous flow (supply & install)
$1,200–$1,800
3–4 hrs
Heat pump (after rebates, approx.)
$1,500–$3,000
Half day
Solar hot water (supply & install)
$4,000–$8,000+
Full day
NSW government rebates can significantly reduce heat pump and solar
costs. Ask your plumber about the Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) available on
efficient systems when getting your quotes via Alljack.
For a like-for-like electric replacement, the plumber disconnects the old unit, drains the tank,
removes it, connects the new unit to the existing cold water supply and hot water outlets, then
checks the T&P valve and expansion valve before restoring power.
Drain & remove old unit
Includes disposal of
old tank
Connect new unit
Cold supply, hot
outlet, T&P valve
Electrical connection
Licensed plumber or
electrician (often same person)
First-fix upgrade if needed
Ageing isolation
valves or pipework in older cottages
