A leading fast-food chain required a reliable backup hot water solution for one of its Portsmouth locations. With uninterrupted access to hot water essential for daily operations, the client needed an experienced commercial plumbing contractor to install a new water heater and associated pipework while ensuring the system was ready for follow-on electrical works. Metro Plumb Dorset and Portsmouth was appointed to deliver the water heater installation, provide a clear handover for site staff and help maintain business operations with minimal disruption.

 

Open electrical water heating unit mounted on a wall, with the front cover removed to reveal internal electrical components, wiring and copper pipework. The unit is installed among insulated pipes and plumbing connections in a utility or plant room, with natural light casting shadows across the white wall behind it.

The Challenge: Installing a Reliable Backup Hot Water System

The client’s existing setup required a new backup water heater to improve resilience and ensure a consistent hot water supply during busy trading periods. As with many commercial environments, any downtime could impact staff efficiency and day-to-day operations.

In addition to the installation itself, the project required a series of isolation and check valves to be fitted and clearly labelled so staff could quickly identify and operate them when necessary. The client also needed detailed site information, photographs and measurements to support upcoming electrical works, making effective coordination between contractors a key requirement of the project.

 

The Solution: Delivering the Water Heater Installation

The project began with a site assessment to confirm installation requirements and identify the most suitable location for the new unit. Our engineer installed the backup water heater alongside the necessary isolation valves and check valves to ensure safe and efficient system operation. All components were installed in accordance with industry best practice and manufacturer guidance.

To support future maintenance and site management, all valves were clearly labelled, allowing staff to easily identify and operate critical components if required. This approach helps improve operational efficiency and reduces the risk of confusion during maintenance or emergency situations.

Wall-mounted CLAGE electric water heater with exposed copper pipework and isolation valves beneath the unit. The heater’s temperature control dial is visible on the front, showing settings from 35°C to 55°C. The installation is mounted against a white wall in a utility or plant room.As part of the wider project, detailed photographs were captured, including the location of the unit, distances to the existing boilers and images of the electrical distribution boards. Additional measurements were also recorded to assist the electrical contractor with the planning and installation of a new circuit.

Once installation was complete, the system was pressure tested to verify the integrity of all connections. No leaks were identified, and the new water heater was fully commissioned and prepared for the next phase of works. The project demonstrates Metro Plumb Dorset & Portsmouth’s expertise in water heater installation and commercial plumbing.

 

The Outcome: Ensuring Long-Term Reliability and Business Continuity

The installation was completed in a single visit. The new backup water heater was successfully installed, tested and commissioned with no leaks detected during pressure testing. Clear valve labelling provided improved usability for on-site teams, while the collection of photographs and measurements streamlined coordination with follow-on contractors. The client benefited from a reliable hot water solution, reduced operational risk and a professionally delivered project that met all requirements efficiently and safely.

 

Speak to a Specialist Plumber near Portsmouth

If you’re looking for a trusted plumber in Portsmouth you can rely on, Metro Plumb Dorset & Portsmouth can help. Our experienced plumbing engineers deliver everything from water heater installations and pipework upgrades to planned maintenance and emergency repairs. We regularly work alongside facilities management teams and contractors on wider civil engineering and infrastructure projects, providing reliable plumbing expertise where it is needed most.

Contact our team today to discuss your requirements and find out how we can support your next project.

9th October 2026    |    Case Study