Choosing the right hot water system for an all-electric home can feel overwhelming with so many options available. All-electric homes require systems that balance efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness while catering to your household’s specific needs.
This guide will help you navigate the best electric hot water systems on the market, outlining their features, and benefits, and how to choose the one that suits your budget, lifestyle, and environmental goals.
Hot water systems are the infrastructure that provides your house with instant hot water. The differences lie in how it keeps your water hot—in a storage tank or heated as required—and the energy source it draws from: conventional gas, solar, electricity or the surrounding air.
A water heater needs to complement your household’s needs. To narrow down your options, consider capacity versus consumption for your household.
The number of people living in the household and their hot water usage will impact what hot water system you purchase. Similarly, multiple hot water outlets and appliances in the bathroom/s, kitchen and laundry and their usage frequencies will need to be considered.
A hot water storage tank that fits 125 to 315 litres is suitable for a typical family of four.
There are different types of hot water systems due to the various energy sources used to operate the heating element.
Solar hot water systems are a great option for all-electric homes. They extract heat from the bright Australian sun via solar panels. They are located either on the roof or a split system circulating from the tank and roof.
As a renewable energy source, solar hot water systems are at the forefront of reducing carbon emissions and lowering energy bills, ensuring the expensive up-front cost leads to long-term savings.
And don’t worry about prolonged cold, overcast weather, as solar water heaters have a backup booster to ensure continuous hot water supply during prolonged cloudy periods.
Electric hot water tank systems work like an electric kettle where cold water is sent to an insulated storage tank, heated and then rises for household use. Alternatively, water passes through a copper heat exchanger to provide water when needed in an instantaneous electric hot water system.
When combined with solar panels, electric hot water systems are very energy efficient, and they have better insulation and energy-saving features than gas water heaters. Without these features, however, an electric hot water system can be very expensive to operate.
Heat pump hot water systems work exceptionally well in all-electric homes. They are a low maintenance, long-life innovative technology that draws heat from the air or ground to warm water, making it kind to both the environment and your electricity bills.
Purchasing a new hot water system for your all-electric home includes several fees: the upfront purchase, installation costs, disposal fees for old systems, and maintenance costs. These must be compared with how the water system will impact the cost of your energy bills in the long run.
The usage patterns, size and efficiency of electric hot water systems determine how much electricity they use. Generally, a standard storage system will use 3 to 4.5 kW of electricity per hour when heating water. We recommend using off-peak electricity to significantly reduce costs by operating during cheaper tariff periods.
Hot water systems are measured on their energy efficiency, called an Energy Factor (EF) rating. The higher the star rating, the more energy-efficient the system, reducing household waste.
Firstly, double-check if the hot water system unit you have purchased can be installed outdoors as most manufacturers have indoor and outdoor models. A heat pump hot water system will not work effectively, for example, if positioned inside.
To choose the location for your new hot water system, abide by any regulatory rules to maintain safety and compliance. Make sure it’s easily accessible for installation and maintenance, and choose a well-ventilated space, particularly for gas hot water systems.
It’s a good idea to locate the unit as close to the hot water plumbing connections as possible. This will reduce costs and wasted energy, as it will take less time to heat water and carry it where it needs to go.
We always recommend the support of a licensed and experienced technician to install your hot water system, for warranty, safety, and regulatory purposes, but also peace of mind. The last thing you want to do is fork out more funds to fix any installation errors.
Electric hot water systems are easy to install and maintain, due to their fewer parts. In comparison, heat pump hot water systems require more technical skills for maintenance and installation.
Before your plumber arrives, clear the area and make sure nothing is blocking their access.
Peak periods place significant strain on Australia’s electricity grid. So, the government offers cheaper prices when we use electricity during an off-peak period.
This off-peak electricity can also apply to stand-alone appliances (such as electric hot water systems) run on a dedicated circuit. So, consider setting your solar hot water system to capitalise on the midday sun to enjoy a warm shower upon your return home from work. Your electricity bills will thank you.
A practical solution to running an efficient hot water system is only using it when necessary. Why not wait to run the dishwasher or washing machine with a full load to save on that water bill? You can also wash clothes in cold water for similar results.
Similarly, the Australian government recommends using a timer or thermostat to optimise hot water usage and reduce energy consumption. It’s also a good (and safe) idea to install a tempering valve. This will reduce the amount of hot water that’s wasted as you adjust faucets to find that perfect temperature.
Moreover, with regular maintenance, you can ensure your hot water system is built to last for its expected 10 to 15 years, saving money on a new appliance.
Hesitant to install a solar power water heater because of the high initial costs, but keen to save money in the long term? The Australian government incentivizes upgrading to solar power water systems with their Household Energy Upgrades Fund rebates.
Likewise, state government rebates, such as those offered in Victoria and New South Wales are available for homeowners to cover the expensive installation cost of their new solar power water systems.
Save yourself the stress and annoyance of finding the right hot water system for your household. With Same Day Hot Water Service’s quick, efficient and reliable services available across Australia, we’re here to answer your queries about water tank models, prices, parts, brand recommendations, energy efficiency and any problems with your existing system.
Call us now on 1300 721 996 or fill in an online enquiry form.
When comparing the type and size of the system, energy source used, insulation, and flow rate, Same Day Hot Water Services recommends solar hot water systems as the most efficient hot water system.
Same Day Hot Water Services recommends Rheem hot water systems as the most reliable brand, followed by Dux hot water systems and then Rinnai hot water systems.