Everyone wants reliable hot water – but there’s a lot of different ways to get it at your place! It can be really confusing to choose the right hot water system for your home and situation – and why’s that? Because each basic technology type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, making it important to understand which system aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. So how to choose from all those different hot water systems? We explore:
The 6 basic types of hot water systems Australia wide
There are 6 basic hot water system types commonly found in Brisbane and Australian homes. They all deliver steaming hot water to the shower head, but they all vary quite a bit in:
- How they operate
- Their energy sources
- And how well they suit different households.
You may be choosing between gas or electric hot water, or looking at solar options. So let’s break them down, along with their pros and cons:
1. Electric storage hot water systems
This one is the most traditional of the types of electric hot water systems. It heats the water with an electric element and then stores it in a large storage tank, delivering it to your home when you turn on the hot tap.
The Pros:
- Proven technology
- Relatively low upfront cost
- Easy to install and maintain
- Suitable for homes with low-to-high water demand, especially with availability of off-peak electricity
The Cons:
- Higher running costs compared to other systems
- Not the most energy-efficient option
- Limited hot water supply if tank size is too small.
2. Gas storage hot water systems
Like the electric storage option … but powered by gas! These types of gas hot water systems also store hot water in a tank.
The Pros:
- More energy-efficient than electric storage systems
- Quicker heating time
- Great for homes with access to natural gas.
The Cons:
- Slightly higher upfront cost
- Requires a connection to a gas line (or bottled LPG)
- Less suitable for homes without mains natural gas supply.
3. Electric instantaneous hot water systems
A sleek, modern electric instant or continuous-flow system heats water as it flows through the unit, so you only ever heat what you use.
The Pros:
- No storage tank, so unlimited hot water on demand
- Compact design, good for smaller homes
- No heat loss since there’s no tank.
The Cons:
- Higher running costs if used with standard electricity rates
- Might struggle with simultaneous hot water demands in large households
- Installation costs may be higher.
4. Gas instantaneous hot water systems
Another of the continuous flow systems, these types of gas hot water systems heat water on demand using gas, still providing a steady flow without a storage tank.
The Pros:
- Same as the electric versions, except more efficient and cost-effective for homes with natural gas.
The Cons:
- Same as electric instant again, but requires a gas connection or LPG bottles.
5. Heat pump hot water systems
A heat pump hot water system ingeniously uses air or ground heat to warm the water, making it one of the most energy-efficient types of hot water heating systems available.
The Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient, great for reducing energy bills
- Environmentally friendly
- Even works well in moderate climates.
The Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Not as effective in very cold climates
- Takes longer to heat water compared to instant or tank systems.
6. Solar hot water systems
Powered by the sun, solar hot water systems use solar panels to heat water, making them a green and cost-effective option for homes with plenty of sunlight like in Brisbane.
The Pros:
- Very low running costs once installed
- Environmentally sustainable
- Government rebates may apply
The Cons:
- High installation cost
- Dependent on sunlight, so may need a backup system
- Less effective in areas with low solar exposure.
Making the best decision for your hot water
With this many hot water options, it can be tough to determine which is best for your particular needs. But the good news is that every option works extremely well – it’s simply a matter of matching the hot water system options to your lifestyle, budget, preferences and household needs. You’ll also need to consider the brand and what size hot water system is best for your usage.
Still unsure exactly how to differentiate the 6 types of hot water system for your needs? Well, it’s always best to compare hot water systems with the guidance of a licensed, experienced and friendly professional. And right here at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, our team of local Brisbane plumbers fit the bill and are always willing to help.
So whether you’re looking for the best type of hot water system for your home or you just need expert hot water repairs, installations, and advice, we’ve got you covered. Contact S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting today to ensure your showers are always hot!