The hot water system is the unsung hero of household appliances. Invisible, forgotten about until it breaks, and taken for granted, we nonetheless use it every day for our showers, our baths, to wash our clothes, and to clean our dishes. It should come as no surprise then that choosing the right hot water system is one of the most important decisions you will make when building a home or replacing an old unit.
Choosing the right hot water system can have a massive impact in terms of its efficiency, how much it saves you financially, and its environmental impact. Let’s explore what you need to know to make an informed choice about your next hot water system purchase.
Why Choosing the Right Hot Water System Matters
Like all aspects of your home, choosing the right hot water system is going to benefit you in the long run. The long-term effects of the wrong choice can include paying higher energy bills and a lack of hot water for you and your family. Both can be reduced by making an informed choice based on your own personal circumstances.
If you’re building or renovating, it makes sense to do your research to find out what system best serves the needs of your household. But what are the signs for when you already have one? How do you know when it’s time to replace an existing system? Well, the warning signs are extensive: water discolouration, unpredictable temperature, strange noises when not in use, and being over its manufacturer-recommended age of use.
So, what type should you get?
Types of Hot Water Systems
There are four main types of hot water systems. None of them are objectively better or worse than the others, but which one is best for you will depend on your circumstances.
Electric Hot Water Systems
As their name suggests, electric systems run on electricity. They are convenient because they will always run, no matter the weather, but overuse, or inefficient use can impact on your power bill.
Gas Hot Water Systems
Gas systems run on natural gas, so if you don’t have gas installed in your house, you will have to choose an alternative or have a gas line installed. While this can be expensive in the short term, you are saving on electricity in the long run, and in the event of a power outage, your hot water will remain unaffected.
Solar Hot Water Systems
For those living in sunny climates, the solar hot water system can be an absolute winner. No electricity, no gas, just the power of the sun. If you don’t have solar panels already, you will have to pay for those, but after that, you are free from unexpected bills. Of course, solar does rely on sunshine, so the clearer the skies in your local area the better.
Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Heat pump systems work the same way as a reverse-cycle air conditioner. Instead of warming the air, they warm the water. Heat pump systems do have a higher upfront cost than other systems, but they make up for it over their lifetime by massively reducing running costs, having a long lifespan, being eligible for government rebates, and being reliable in places with fluctuating temperatures.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hot Water System
Understanding which hot water system is best for you comes from understanding your own hot water needs.
First, consider the different energy ratings for the systems available to you. Click our helpful link to get a full rundown of the most efficient hot water systems in Australia.
Secondly, what is your household size and how much water do you typically use? A family of two will have vastly different needs to a family of five, as will a townhouse compared to a four-bedroom home. Additionally, ask: do you prefer long showers or short, do you routinely use the hot cycle of your washing machine, and how often do you use your dishwasher?
Then, consider your current budget and cash flow. What are you willing to spend on installation costs? If you don’t have them already, gas systems use gas, solar systems require solar panels and heat pumps have greater upfront costs. All of these are fantastic options for the long term, but if short-term cash is a consideration, then opting for electric might be better.
Finally, consider your environmental impact. Solar hot water systems are excellent at reducing your carbon footprint and helping the climate, as are heat pump systems. Gas systems also reduce your reliability on the electrical grid, though they do come at the cost of requiring natural gas.
Hot Water System Maintenance Tips
Hot water maintenance is always best done by an accredited technician. Attempting DIY repairs could void your warranty, damage the plumbing, or otherwise impact the efficiency of your hot water heater. What you can do, however, is to keep your system clear of any debris or plants, put insulation on your hot water pipes, check your temperature settings, and book in for a regular (once or twice a year) hot water inspection.
If you’re experiencing temperature changes, you see leaks coming from your system, the system is making strange noises, or your water is coming out dirty or discoloured, it might be time to order a replacement.
FAQs
Q. How long does a hot water system last?
A. The average hot water system has a lifespan of between 8 and 12 years but could last as long as 20 years for tankless models. The durability of your system will also depend on your brand and model, its usage, and daily pressure applied.
Q. What is the most energy-efficient hot water system?
A. Heat pump water heaters are the most energy-efficient models, being 2–3 times more energy-efficient than tank electric hot water systems.
Q. How do I know which size is right for my home?
A. The size of the system is directly correlated to the size of your home and how many people are living in it. For example, an average family of 1–3 may only need a tank size of 125 L on peak, while a family of 5 could need a tank size of 400 L on peak. Consult your local hot water system specialist to discuss your needs in terms of demand and capacity.
Find Your Ideal Hot Water System Today
The importance of choosing the right hot water system for your situation cannot be understated. The size, the energy source, and its power usage are all key factors to consider. If you’re ready to explore your options for a new hot water system further, don’t hesitate to consult with an expert or explore your options online.
Get in touch with Same Day Hot Water Service today to discuss the best water heating option for you.