How do hot water systems work?

In Australia, there are 4 main types of hot water systems available on the market today and all have their various strengths and weaknesses:

How do Electric Water Heaters Work?

Similar to your Kettle, Electric Storage Water heaters work by heating water via an element located at the back of the tank. Continuous hot water systems also use an element but this gets coiled around the piping itself in order to heat up faster.

Advantages

• Electric hot water systems are usually the cheapest upfront cost when it comes to purchasing a Hot water system for your home.
• Automation can enable to use of only heating during off peak periods.

Disadvantages

• Electric hot water systems are generally the most expensive long term solution for heating water.
• The are not Environmentally friendly and/or utilise renewable energy sources.

How do Solar Water Heaters Work?

Solar Hot water systems generate their heat from the sun using panels mounted on your roof and can come in many different types including Flat panel collection, Evacuated Tube collectors and even standard electrical Water Heaters powered by pre-existing solar panels.

Advantages

• Solar can decrease your hot water system’s energy consumption by up to 90% saving you a huge chunk on your power bill.
• Solar Hot water systems are the most environmentally friendly option and the most efficient.

Disadvantages

• Upfront costs can be significant, especially given we also have to factor in the mounting of panels.
• May not be as efficient in overcast weather but can be backed up with gas and electrical options.

How do Gas Hot Water Systems Work?

Probably the simplest and oldest method, In a Gas hot water system, the Storage tank is continuously heated by a gas burner. Similar to using a gas stovetop and boiling water.

Advantages

• Gas hot water systems are a great option for the environment, as they produce less greenhouse gas emissions .
• Although location dependant, can also have lower usage rates compared to an electric system.

Disadvantages

• Can be prohibitively expensive if you are not connected to a gas main and have to rely on portable gas bottles.
• Gas Hot Water systems also need specific requirements for their location.
• And everyone's favourite culprit,The pilot light - especially in the middle of winter.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters are installed with a suction fan which draws warm air into the system to heat water, this is then fed in the storage tank. Heat pumps operate using electricity buy are generally around 3 times more energy efficient that standard electrical heaters. A heat pump hot water system relies on the heat from either the ground or the air around it to heat water, meaning it really needs to be used in warmer climates to work effectively

Advantages

• Around 3 times more Energy efficient than standard electrical hot water systems.

Disadvantages

• Too expensive, they are one of the most expensive systems to install.
• Only useful in specific environments

Gas, electric and solar hot water heaters essentially work the same way by heating water via an element at the bottom of the unit - similar to how a Kettle works.

Most gas, electric, solar and heat pump hot water systems use a tank

Electric storage hot water systems work similarly to natural gas storage systems. Cold water is piped into the tank where it is heated, then it rises to the top and is siphoned off when the hot tap is turned on. ... A thermostat is used to control and maintain the temperature to which the water is heated.

Ref- https://australianhotwater.com.au/hot-water/faq/

Need more help with your hot water system choices?

• Cost of hot water systems
• Pros and cons of different types of hot water systems

Your Sydney hot water specialists

If you have any questions regarding the hot water temperature in your home, or are in need of a specialist come out and check your hot water system, give Pure Plumbing a call on 0407 837 729 or complete an online job booking form today. We are the leading hot water specialists in the Brisbane area, so get in contact now!