Tips for choosing the right hot water system.
Choosing the right hot water system can be confusing. With so many makes and models available, it’s important to choose a system that matches your household’s hot water usage, budget and energy efficiency goals.
While it can be tempting to focus solely on the purchase price, a hot water system is a long-term investment. Choosing the right system now can save you money on running costs, reduce maintenance expenses and ensure your household has reliable hot water for many years to come.
On this page
- Why you might need a new hot water system
- What size hot water system do you need?
- Should you choose gas, electric, solar or a heat pump?
- Answers to common questions we’re asked by customers
- Do you need help choosing the right hot water system?
Why you might need a new hot water system
There are many reasons why homeowners choose to replace their hot water system, including:
- Hot water problems – Your existing system is leaking, unreliable, breaking down frequently, or has reached the end of its useful life.
- Running out of hot water – Your household has grown, children have become teenagers, or your current system is simply too small for your needs.
- Energy efficiency – Older hot water systems can be expensive to run. Upgrading to a newer model may reduce your energy bills and environmental impact.
- Home renovations – Additional bathrooms, ensuites or appliances can increase your hot water demand and require a larger system.
- Downsizing – If fewer people are living in the home, a smaller, more efficient system may be a better fit and cheaper to operate.
- Repair costs – As hot water systems age, replacement parts can become difficult to source, making repairs uneconomical.
- Technology upgrades – You may wish to upgrade to a more modern gas, solar, heat pump or instantaneous hot water system.
- Government rebates – Rebates and incentives may be available when upgrading to an eligible energy-efficient hot water system.
Whatever the reason, choosing the right replacement hot water system is an important decision that will affect your comfort, energy bills and ongoing running costs for many years to come.
What size hot water system do I need?
One of the most important factors when choosing a new hot water system is selecting the correct size.
Storage tank hot water system size guide
Storage hot water systems store a quantity of heated water in an insulated tank, ready for use whenever you turn on a hot tap. They are available in a wide range of capacities.
1–2 people household
125L–160L storage system.
Small hot water system prices »
2–3 people household
160L–250L storage system
Medium hot water system prices »
3–5 people household
250L–315L storage system
Large hot water system prices »
5+ people household
315L+ storage system or a suitably sized continuous flow system
Extra large hot water system prices »
Continuous flow hot water system size guide
Continuous flow (instantaneous) hot water systems are sized differently to storage hot water systems. Rather than being selected based on tank capacity, they are chosen according to the number of bathrooms in the home, the number of occupants, and how many hot water outlets may be used at the same time.
1 bathroom home
16L–20L continuous flow system
2 bathroom home
20L–26L continuous flow system
3+ bathroom home
26L+ continuous flow system
For larger homes with multiple bathrooms, spa baths, or high hot water demand, a larger capacity unit may be required.
Continous hot water system prices »
It’s worth mentioning that every household is different. Factors such as the number of bathrooms, frequency of showers, bath usage and appliances connected to the hot water system all affect the size and type of system required.
Need advice? Call 0410 693 532 and speak directly with one of our hot water specialists.
Should I choose gas, electric, solar or a heat pump?
Every type of hot water system has its own advantages, and the right choice for one household may not necessarily be the best choice for another. Below is a general overview of the different types of hot water systems available and the benefits each can offer.
Gas storage hot water systems
Gas hot water systems remain one of the most popular choices for Australian households. Available as both storage tank and continuous flow models, gas systems provide reliable hot water and are particularly well suited to larger households with higher hot water demands.
Benefits of gas hot water systems
- Fast recovery times
- Reliable supply of hot water for larger families
- Available in storage and continuous flow models
- Suitable for homes connected to natural gas or LPG
- Compact continuous flow units save space
- Proven and reliable technology
- Available in a wide range of sizes and capacities
Continuous flow gas hot water systems
Also known as instantaneous hot water systems, continuous flow units heat water only when a hot tap is turned on. Because water is heated on demand, there is no need for a storage tank.
Benefits of continuous flow hot water systems
- Continuous supply of hot water
- Compact, space-saving design
- No large storage tank required
- Energy is only used when hot water is needed
- Suitable for households with varying hot water usage
- Available in natural gas and LPG models
- Ideal for modern homes where space is limited
Continuous flow hot water system prices »
Note: We also stock continous flow electric hot water systems.
Electric hot water systems
Electric hot water systems are one of the most common hot water solutions found in Australian homes. They are available in a wide range of capacities and are suitable for everything from small apartments to large family homes.
Benefits of electric hot water systems
- Available in a wide range of sizes and capacities
- Suitable for most homes and households
- Reliable and easy to operate
- Straightforward replacement option for existing electric systems
- Modern units offer improved energy efficiency
- Proven technology used in Australian homes for decades
- Available from all major hot water manufacturers
- Ideal for households looking for a simple and dependable hot water solution
Electric hot water heater prices »
Solar hot water systems
Solar hot water systems use energy from the sun to heat water, helping households reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources. They are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term running costs.
Benefits of solar hot water systems
- Utilise free energy from the sun
- Lower ongoing energy costs
- Environmentally friendly solution
- Ideal for households with higher hot water usage
- Available with electric or gas boosting for reliable year-round performance
- Can increase the energy efficiency of your home
- Proven technology suited to Australian conditions
Solar hot water system prices »
Heat pump hot water systems
Heat pump hot water systems are one of the fastest-growing segments of the hot water market. Rather than generating heat directly, they capture warmth from the surrounding air and use it to heat water efficiently.
Benefits of heat pump hot water systems
- Extremely energy efficient
- Lower operating costs compared to traditional electric systems
- Suitable for many residential properties
- Environmentally friendly technology
- Available in a wide range of capacities
- May be eligible for government rebates and incentives
- Excellent option for homeowners looking to reduce energy consumption
Questions? Contact us on 0410 693 532. We’re here to help.
Answers to common questions we’re asked by customers
What size hot water system do I need for a family of four?
For a typical family of four, we generally recommend a storage hot water system with a capacity of 250L–315L. However, the ideal size depends on your household’s hot water usage, the number of bathrooms, whether you have a bath, and how many people are likely to use hot water at the same time. If you’re considering a continuous flow system, we’ll recommend a model with sufficient capacity to comfortably supply your household’s peak demand.
- Further reading: Hot water system prices and options »
Is a heat pump better than an electric hot water system?
Both systems have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your circumstances. Heat pump hot water systems are generally more energy efficient and can significantly reduce running costs compared to traditional electric storage systems. They may also qualify for government rebates and incentives. Electric hot water systems remain a popular choice because they are simple, reliable and available in a wide range of sizes. Our hot water specialists can help you compare the options and determine which system offers the best value for your home and budget.
- Further reading: Switching to an energy efficient heat pump »
Can I replace my electric hot water system with gas?
In many cases, yes. If your property has access to natural gas or LPG, it may be possible to replace your existing electric hot water system with a gas storage or continuous flow model. Gas hot water systems offer fast recovery times and are often well suited to larger households. Our licensed plumbers and gas fitters can assess your property and advise whether changing from electric to gas is the right option for your needs.
- Further reading: Switching from electric to gas hot water »
How long does a hot water system last?
The lifespan of a hot water system depends on the type of system, water quality, maintenance and usage patterns. As a general guide, most quality hot water systems will last between 8 and 15 years, with some systems lasting considerably longer when properly maintained and serviced. Regular servicing can help maximise the life of your hot water system and identify potential problems before they lead to costly repairs or replacement.
- Further reading: Hot water system life span »
Have you got a question? We’re here to help. Call 0410 693 532.
Do you need help choosing the right hot water system?
Hot water is our business! Call us for expert advice you can trust.
Choosing the right hot water system isn’t always easy. With so many gas, electric, solar, heat pump and continuous flow options available, it’s important to select a system that matches your household’s hot water usage, energy efficiency goals and budget. That’s where we can help.
With decades of combined industry experience, our team can help you choose the most suitable hot water system for your household and budget. We’ll take the time to understand your household’s requirements and explain the available options, helping you make an informed decision that delivers reliable hot water and long-term value.
We supply and install all major hot water brands, including Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Aquamax, Bosch, Conergy, Hocking, Apricus, Vulcan, Edwards Solar, Solahart, Everhot and more.
The benefits to you when you contact Cheapa Hot Water Sydney:
- Expert, obligation-free advice
- Competitive pricing on all major brands
- Free delivery throughout Sydney
- Removal and recycling of your old hot water system
- Supply and installation by licensed plumbers, gas fitters and electricians
- Assistance with available government rebates and incentives
- Fast, professional service from Sydney hot water specialists
Contact us
For obligation-free advice on purchasing a new hot water system that will suit your hot water usage and budget, contact our friendly team. We’re here to help.
Fast hot water repairs throughout Sydney
Our licensed hot water technicians provide fast repair services throughout Sydney including the Northern Beaches, Upper and Lower North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Hills District, Inner West, Western Suburbs + Blacktown, St George + Bexley, Campbelltown, Sutherland Shire, Penrith, Liverpool, Hornsby, and Ryde. With fully stocked service vehicles and access to thousands of spare parts, we can often diagnose and repair your hot water system on the first visit.