Califont Replacement Auckland

Old Califont Not Working? We'll Replace It.

4.9 from 165 reviews

If your califont is playing up, running lukewarm, cutting out mid-shower, or not firing at all, it may be time for a replacement. Citywide Plumbing & Pumps replaces old and failing califonts across Auckland’s North Shore and wider Auckland. We remove the old unit, supply and install a new one from New Zealand’s leading brands, and issue full gas compliance certificates on completion.

Most replacements are completed in a single visit.

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Signs Your Califont Needs Replacing

Califonts are built to last, but most units have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your califont may be nearing the end of its useful life:

Inconsistent water temperature - Hot water fluctuates between hot and cold, or the unit can't maintain a steady temperature.
Lukewarm water only - The califont fires but doesn't heat the water properly, even on the highest setting.
Unit won't ignite - You turn on the hot tap and nothing happens, or the califont clicks but fails to light.
Strange noises - Banging, popping, or rumbling sounds during operation can indicate a failing heat exchanger or scale build-up.
Visible corrosion or leaking - Rust, water stains, or dripping around the unit are signs of internal damage.
Error codes on the display - Repeated error codes that keep coming back after resetting usually point to a component that's failing.
Increased gas usage - If your gas bills have crept up without a change in usage, your califont may be running inefficiently.
Parts no longer available - Some older models have been discontinued and replacement parts are no longer stocked in NZ.

If your califont is showing one or two of these signs, a repair may be possible. If it’s showing several, or the unit is 12+ years old, replacement is usually the more cost-effective option.

Common Units We Replace

Rinnai Infinity A26 - Older models are now 15+ years old and due for replacement.
Rinnai VT26 - Discontinued. Parts are becoming harder to source.
Rinnai A20 - A smaller unit that many homeowners outgrow as their household grows.
Bosch 16E / 21E - Common in Auckland homes from the 2000s. Many are now reaching end of life.
Bosch HydroPower - Battery-free ignition, but prone to issues as they age.
Rheem Integrity 26 / 27 - Solid units, but older models are being replaced with current-generation systems.
Vulcan Freeloader - A legacy unit well past due for replacement in most cases.
Paloma PH series - No longer widely supported in NZ. Parts availability is limited.

If your unit is on this list or a similar model from the same era, give us a call. We can assess its condition and let you know whether it’s worth repairing or better to replace.

What We Replace Them With

We supply and install New Zealand’s most trusted continuous flow brands.

Rinnai Infinity

NZ’s most popular continuous flow califont. Reliable, energy efficient, and available in a range of sizes from 16L through to 26L for larger households. Consistent temperature even with multiple taps running.

Rheem Integrity

A solid mid-range continuous flow option with strong energy efficiency and a compact wall-mounted design. Well-established parts and service network across NZ.

We’ll recommend the right brand and model based on your household size, number of bathrooms, and hot water usage. In many cases we can upgrade you to a more efficient unit without changing the mounting location or gas line.

What's Involved In A Califont Replacement?

A like-for-like califont replacement is one of the most straightforward gas fitting jobs:

Remove the old unit

We disconnect the gas, water, and electrical connections and remove the old califont.

Install the new unit

The new califont is mounted, connected to gas and water, and wired to the existing power point.

Test and commission

We test ignition, flame, temperature output, water flow, and safety controls to make sure everything is working correctly.

Issue compliance certificates

A Certificate of Compliance (CoC) and Gas Safety Certificate (GSC) are issued on completion. Required by law for all gas fitting work.

A straightforward like-for-like replacement, same location, same gas type, can usually be completed in 3 to 4 hours. If the gas line or mounting location needs to change, it may take a full day. We dispose of the old unit so you don’t have to worry about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a califont replacement cost?

It depends on the brand and model you're upgrading to and whether any additional gas line or electrical work is needed. A like-for-like swap is generally less expensive than changing to a different location or gas type. Contact us for a free quote.

Should I repair or replace my califont?

As a general rule, if the unit is under 10 years old and the repair is minor (ignition module, thermostat, valve), a repair is usually worthwhile. If the unit is 12+ years old or has a cracked heat exchanger, replacement is almost always the better option.

Can I upgrade to a larger unit when replacing?

Yes. If you've added a bathroom or your household has grown, we can upgrade to a higher-capacity model. In most cases the existing gas line and mounting location can still be used.

Do I get a gas compliance certificate?

Yes, always. We issue a Certificate of Compliance and a Gas Safety Certificate with every replacement. These are legally required and important for insurance purposes.

Califont Not Performing?

Call us on 09 444 6504 or request a quote and we’ll get back to you promptly.