How to Select the Right Hot Water System

It’s easy to get all hot under the collar when there’s a decision to be made that requires you to splash some cash. But at Tradelink, we’re here to keep the stress in check and support you in every decision, big or small, including in your choice of hot water system.

We’re also here to ensure you get value for money.

What’s available in hot water systems right now?

There are five main types of hot water system available in Australia.

  • 1.Electric storage hot water system

As the name suggests, an electric storage hot water system stores water in an insulated cylinder or tank and heats it with an electric element near the bottom of the tank, or high voltage heating rods that run vertically through the tank. Electric hot water systems come in a huge range of sizes – they can be as small at 25L or as large as 400L.

Electric storage hot water systems generally have a lower up-front cost than other hot water systems. They are relatively quick and easy to install, and they require very little space (sometimes they can be found under the stairs, in a linen cupboard, and even inside a bathroom vanity, while other times they’re just installed outside the house).

Electric storage hot water systems including all those in our range make a great choice for families that use a moderate amount of hot water. But if you have family members who love to while away the hours under your shower rose, you might find yourself running short of hot water on occasion, as the hot water usually takes some time to restore after it’s been used.

  • 2.Gas storage hot water system

A gas storage hot water system works in the same way as an electric storage hot water system. Water is stored and heated in an insulated cylinder or tank by a gas burner. The gas storage hot water heaters in our range are great for larger families as they have a rapid recovery rate or rapid heating. In fact, most gas storage hot water systems can heat twice as fast as their electric hot water heating system cousins can. Think of the family arguments this feature alone could save!

Gas storage hot water systems give you hot water even when the power is out, and while the initial cost is a little higher, they have a lower cost of operation.

  • 3.Continuous flow gas hot water system

Continuous flow gas hot water systems, also called instantaneous gas hot water systems, only heat the water when it’s needed. They don’t require a storage tank, so they’re smaller in size than hot water storage systems. This makes them space saving and suited to installation on a wall outside a house.

One of the main reasons people choose continuous flow gas hot water systems from our range is because they want an always-available steady stream of perfectly heated water. But some continuous flow gas systems do deliver lower water pressure, as the water is slowed as it passes through the system to allow enough time for it to heat, so that’s something to consider.

The up-front costs of a continuous flow gas hot water system can be slightly higher than those associated with storage systems, but the running costs are lower. And continuous flow gas hot water systems are typically easier than other hot water systems to install.

  • 4.Solar hot water systems

Solar hot water systems can be a very cost-effective way to heat water for your home. The upfront costs are high, but they deliver significant water heating bill savings.

They systems themselves are made up of storage tanks and storage collectors that use the sun’s rays to warm the water you use. They can be boosted either by gas or electricity to help warm water on overcast days, or when daylight hours are shorter, such as during Winter.

Solar hot water systems like ours are installed on the roof of your house. They don’t generate electricity but do take up space you might otherwise use for a solar PV system. However, they reduce your carbon emissions, and in some locations rebates and government incentives may apply.

Once installed, solar hot water systems require very little maintenance and that keeps costs down too.

  • 5.Electric heat pump water heater

Electric heat pump water heaters work by moving heat from the air in the room to water in the tank. They use electricity to operate but are significantly more energy efficient than a conventional electric storage water heater.

However, you’ll pay more upfront for your electric heat pump hot water heater, compared to other systems. But they offer a long life and can last up to 10-15 years if they are well maintained. Whereas traditional water heaters typically last around 8-12 years.

Because electric heat pump water heaters draw heat from the air, when there’s plenty of warm air there’s no problem. However, this can take more time during colder winter months. But electric heat pump water heaters like the ones in our range come with a boost function for cold days or high demand times.

Wash away the worry with some expert advice

Don’t land yourself in metaphorical hot water with the family by accidentally choosing the wrong hot water system for your home. Get the help you need.

Our hot water system buying guide is a great place to start. It is full of helpful advice and information.

You can further your research by speaking to our expert Tradelink showroom consultants. Share with them the size of your family and their hot water habits, your budget, and what space you have in your home, and they’ll help you narrow down your options.

Find a store or contact us to book an appointment.

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