Which hot water system is the most efficient?
Since you last installed your hot water system, the technology has changed immensely. The new models come in different types - with or without storage tanks. So which hot water system is the most efficient? In this article, we will discuss the different types of hot water systems - storage and continuous flow - and which is the most efficient.
Factors to consider before buying a new water heater
Before you buy you new hot water system, there are various factors you should consider.
- Tank capacity
- Energy Star rating
- Installation and operation costs
- Fuel type
- Size of the household
- Water usage
Types of Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems are available in different types. So, when it comes to choosing the HWS, the first thing to consider is the fuel type - solar, electric or gas.
Electric
- Cheaper to buy and install
- Electricity prices vary throughout the day, so the operating costs can be high if use is during peak tariff periods and account for the majority of your home electricity usage.
- By increasing the size of the unit and connecting to off-peak electricity tariffs you can maintain low operating costs.
- Electric hot water systems are of two types - with a storage tank or continuous flow.
Gas
- Gas HWS are cheaper than electric HWS in terms of operating costs.
- Gas prices are the same throughout the day, so operating costs can work out cheaper than electric HWS.
- Energy-efficient models of gas HWS are available in both storage and instant styles.
- Produces less greenhouse gas emissions and is more environmentally friendly.
- Gas HWS heats the water quickly, so you don’t have to wait long for the hot water system to reheat.
- Gas hot water systems are of two types - storage tank or continuous flow.
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Solar
- Solar HWS uses sunlight to heat water and has low greenhouse gas emissions.
- Offer low operating costs and higher saving on power bills.
- The cost of purchasing and installing solar HWS can be higher than gas or electric, but the Australian government offers considerable green energy rebates to replace electricity/gas with solar hot water systems.
- Needs a storage tank and electric or gas boosters to provide hot water in cloudy conditions.
Heat Pump
- Heat pump water heaters extract heat from the ambient air outside to heat the water in the tank.
- Suitable for areas where the climate is mild to hot.
- Heat pumps are 2-3 times more energy-efficient than storage electric hot water systems.
- Available in two types - split (separate tank and compressor) and integrated.
The next step is to decide if you prefer your hot water system with tank or without tank.
Tankless or Tank Hot Water Systems
Tankless
- Also called instantaneous or continuous hot water systems. As the name suggests, the water is heated on-demand.
- Available in both - gas and electric
- Cheaper to run and maintain than storage systems.
- Can last for more than 20 years
Storage Tank
- Requires regular maintenance as the tanks are prone to corrosion.
- Storage tanks have a warranty period of 5-10 years.
- The storage tanks are insulated to keep the water warm.
- It can keep only a certain amount of water hot and once the water is used up, it takes time to heat the cold water. Care needs to be take to ensure your unit is big enough to cater for your hot water needs to ensure you are not continually running out.
Which hot water system is the most efficient?
- Solar hot water systems are cheap, have low operating costs, and are the most effcient hot water systems.
- Electric or gas instant water heaters are becoming more popular in Australia. Electric instant heaters account for 3% and gas 21%.
- For saving energy and overall operating costs, instant hot water systems are worth considering.
- If solar is not an option, consider an instant natural gas unit or a heat pump hot water system.
- The ideal type of HWS eventually depends on the size of your household and your hot water requirements. When it comes to making a final decision, you will need to consider the initial costs, overall operating costs and long-term savings.
- If you want to save more in the long run, solar is the best option, although purchase costs can be higher than some alternative options.
Still, confused? Talk to our friendly staff, and our expert plumbers will be able to recommend a system that meets your needs and budget.
Size of the Hot Water System
The size of the hot water system depends on:
- The number of water outlets - if you are buying a continuous flow water heater.
- Size of your household - if you are buying a storage water heater.
Check out this link for more info on the right size of hot water system.
Your Local Hot Water Specialists Sydney
Speak to your local hot water specialists in Sydney for the best hot water system for your home or business. Contact us on (02) 9191 7374 or complete our online booking form for more information. Our expert plumbers can suggest the best hot water system for residential or commercial purposes, so get in touch with us now.
