How to Override Off-Peak Hot Water Settings and Take Control of Your Hot Water System

At Liquid Plumbing, we understand that hot water access is essential in every Australian home. Being bound to off-peak tariffs can cause unnecessary delays, especially when demand spikes unexpectedly.

Today we will show you exactly how to override off-peak hot water settings to regain control of your hot water usage, reduce inconvenience, and potentially optimise energy consumption.

⚡ Understanding Off-Peak Hot Water Systems

Off-peak hot water systems operate using electricity during designated low-tariff periods, typically overnight. These systems are commonly tied to controlled load tariffs (Tariff 31 or 33 in WA and similar across Australia). While economical, this setup may leave you with no hot water during high-demand periods.

🔧 How to Identify If You’re on Off-Peak Tariffs

Before overriding any settings, it’s crucial to confirm whether you’re on an off-peak tariff.

Check the following:

• Electricity Bill: Look for terms like “controlled load,” “Tariff 31,” or “Tariff 33.”

• Meter Box: If you see separate circuits marked for “Hot Water” and “Controlled Load,” you’re on an off-peak system.

• Hot Water Tank Label: Some units will indicate “Off-Peak” operation.

💡 Reasons to Override Off-Peak Hot Water

• Running out of hot water during the day

• Unexpected guests increasing usage

• Winter demand spikes

• Medical or hygiene needs requiring frequent hot water

🔄 How to Override Off-Peak Hot Water Systems (Step-by-Step)

1. Manual Boost Mode Activation (For Compatible Units)

Most modern electric hot water systems include a “boost” or “manual override” function.

Instructions:

• Locate the hot water system switchboard.

• Identify the boost switch or override button.

• Switch it to ‘Boost’ or ‘Manual’ mode.

• This activates the element to heat water immediately using peak tariff electricity.

Note: Energy costs will be higher during peak time.

2. Change Electrical Tariff via Retailer

If your electricity retailer allows, request to switch from controlled load to a standard usage tariff.

Pros:

• Hot water available anytime

• Flexible energy use

Cons:

• Slightly higher overall electricity rates

Contact your energy provider and ask if they can shift your hot water system to general usage. This often requires an electrician to adjust wiring or meter settings.

3. Install a Timer Switch for Semi-Automated Control

A licensed electrician can install a programmable timer that enables the system to heat water during both off-peak and additional times.

Benefits:

• Control over heating windows

• Efficient scheduling during shoulder tariffs

4. Upgrade to a Solar or Continuous Flow System

Long-term solution: replace off-peak electric storage with:

• Solar hot water with electric or gas booster

• Gas continuous flow (instant) systems

• Heat pump systems

These options eliminate dependency on off-peak electricity and significantly reduce energy costs over time.

🛠️ Safety and Compliance Warning

Only licensed electricians or plumbers should modify electrical systems or rewire controlled load circuits. DIY changes are illegal and pose serious fire and electrocution risks.

Always consult professionals like our licensed team at Liquid Plumbing to perform these tasks safely and to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000).

🔍 Common Signs You Need to Override Off-Peak

💬 Why Choose Liquid Plumbing?

We are Perth’s trusted hot water experts. Our licensed plumbers and electricians offer:

• Seamless off-peak override installations

• Tariff adjustments in collaboration with energy providers

• Energy-efficient upgrades

• 24/7 emergency plumbing support

We specialise in helping households take back control of their hot water systems. Whether you want to override an off-peak setup or upgrade to a smarter system, Liquid Plumbing has your back.

📞 Get in Touch

Need help overriding your off-peak hot water system? Contact Liquid Plumbing for expert service:

📍 Serving all of Perth
📞 0422 673 766