How To Find The Right Hot Water System For Your Needs

Whether your old hot water system is on the way out or it simply doesn’t suit your needs anymore, selecting an entirely new system can be a challenge.

With such a range of different energy options, as well as systems that include tankless hot water as well as traditional systems with an insulated tank, working out which choice is going to provide the performance and efficiency you want can be a challenge.

We’re here to help! Check out our advice to consider when deciding on the type of hot water system that’s going to be best for your property in Coffs Harbour.

Let’s review the main types of hot water systems on the market, as well as go through the pros and cons of each to help you make this decision.

In most cases, water in the home is heated using either gas, electricity, or solar power.

In addition to different energy options, hot water systems may utilise a tank (which holds the hot water until it’s needed) or be instantaneous (tankless). Instantaneous hot water systems simply heat water as it’s required.

A gas hot water system is powered by gas, that’s combusted to provide the heat needed to warm the water. Both traditional and tankless hot water systems can be gas-powered. Whilst LPG can be used, in most cases this is too expensive. Gas-heated hot water is usually only viable if mains gas is used at the property.

Mains gas is a greener choice than mains electricity (although less green than an electric hot water system powered using electricity generated from solar energy). It’s also frequently a cheaper form of water heating, as well as being a reliable option in all weather.

Gas hot water systems need an electric ignition, so won’t operate if there is a power failure. Also, some properties just aren’t suitable for a gas hot water installation.

Electric hot water systems are versatile options that can be installed almost anywhere. If you use mains electricity, they may be slightly more expensive to run than a gas hot water heater (although using off-peak power may reduce cost). Electric hot water systems are also long-lasting and economical to install.

These may either involve the solar energy heating the water directly or require electricity that’s generated from solar power. Both these options are very environmentally friendly.

The main factors to consider with solar power are the upfront installation costs, which are significantly higher than mains gas or electricity options, and fluctuating energy levels.

As there is no sunlight at night, and less sunlight during the cooler months, it can be challenging to ensure hot water is available 24/7/365 without a backup energy source.

Your individual circumstances will have a big impact on working out the right hot water system for your needs. Some of the factors to consider have been detailed below.

How Much Hot Water You Need

If you need a high volume of hot water, or constantly need hot water, gas or electricity is usually the best option.

Your Home

Smaller properties, especially apartments, will usually be best suited to an electric hot water system. Gas systems also need a flue that leads outside.

Upfront Cost or Running Costs

Solar is usually more expensive to install, but usually cheaper to run. In contrast, gas and mains electric hot water systems are cheaper to install but comparatively more costly to run.

Environmental Impact

Green households may prefer to opt for solar hot water systems, as these are the more environmentally friendly choices.

If you’re not sure what type of hot water system is going to work best for you or require more information or advice that’s tailored to you and your property, get in touch with our expert plumbers at Carrick Plumbing & Roofing to get started on your solar journey today.