
Reason for the Callout
The homeowner observed water leaking from the existing heater tank and sought a solution before further damage occurred.
Condo
Rheem 81VP20S to 65SVP10S Replacement with PUB Submission at Sommerville Park
A Sommerville Park homeowner reported a leaking Rheem 81VP20S. We found tank corrosion and missing safety features like a check valve, vacuum relief valve, stop cock, and bonding. The unit was replaced with a Rheem 65SVP10S, and a full PUB Submission was completed to ensure compliance.
Before: Rheem 81VP20S
After: Rheem 65SVP10S
Date Of Replacement: 21 Apr 2025
Project Location: Sommerville Park

Before Replacement:

The old Rheem 81VP20S heater had clearly reached the end of its lifespan. The tank was rusted, and active leaking was visible. More importantly, it had been installed without mandatory PUB-compliant safety fittings—no check valve, no vacuum relief valve, no stop cock, and no electrical bonding.
After Replacement:

We replaced the corroded Rheem 81VP20S with a more compact and energy-efficient Rheem 65SVP10S. All missing safety fittings were installed, including an approved double-check valve, a vacuum relief valve, and a stop cock. Electrical bonding was properly reinstated. All installation details were officially recorded through a PUB Submission, supervised by a PUB Licensed Plumber to meet the requirements of SS636 and manufacturer specifications.
Inspection Findings 
- Tank leakage and visible rusting on the heater body
- No approved double-check valve installed
- Missing vacuum relief valve
- No stop cock or isolating control valve
- No electrical bonding present
Components Replaced for PUB Submission Compliance:
- Rheem 65SVP10S electric storage water heater
- PUB-approved double-check valve
- Vacuum relief valve
- Stop cock
- Stainless steel pipework (≤1m)
- Electrical bonding cable and connection
- Updated wall brackets and fittings
Replacement work scope:
- Isolated and safely disconnected electrical and water supply
- Dismantled and disposed of old Rheem 81VP20S
- Inspected pipe pressure and electrical connections
- Installed Rheem 65SVP10S in the same location
- Fitted vacuum relief valve and double-check valve
- Installed a new stop cock
- Replaced pipework with stainless steel (≤1m)
- Verified and connected electrical bonding
- Leak and performance tested
- All documentation completed for PUB Submission


Our PUB Licensed Plumber has endorsed that the work is done in accordance with the conditions stated below:
- All water service installations must be in accordance with the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations, Singapore Standards 636 for Water Services, and all other relevant statutory requirements.
- The proposed works shall not adversely affect the existing water supply reticulation system.
- The proposed water storage heater is installed in accordance with the specifications and requirements of the manufacturer.
- The installation of double-check valves is safe and effective in preventing backflow and the back-siphonage of water from the storage water heater through the heater inlet pipe, and will be safe for use.
Conclusion:
This project at Sommerville Park demonstrates why a PUB Submission is essential—even for routine heater replacements. The original unit was unsafe, non-compliant, and undocumented. With the installation of a new Rheem 65SVP10S, all safety features were restored under the supervision of a PUB-licensed plumber. A full PUB Submission was filed to ensure traceability, code compliance, and long-term safety. We remain committed to making PUB Submission a standard in all water heater projects across Singapore.