Gas, solar, electric or heat pump? Which hot water system is best?

When it comes to hot water systems, choosing the right option for your home is essential for comfort and efficiency. With the multitude of options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to make a decision to ensure you buy the right one.

With 30+ years of experience in hot water, we’ve put together our top tips for buying the right hot water system that we hope will help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Whether you’re looking to replace an old system or install a new one, understanding the different types of hot water systems is crucial. From traditional storage tank systems to instantaneous systems, each has advantages and disadvantages.

Things to consider:

energy efficiency
space requirements
hot water usage

We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each type of hot water system, providing you with the information needed to make an informed choice. We’ll also discuss important features to look for, such as energy ratings and warranties, to ensure you get the best value for your investment.

Types of hot water systems

When it comes to hot water systems, there are several different types to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision that best suits your hot water usage needs.

Electric hot water systems

One of the most common types of hot water systems is the electric hot water system. These systems use electricity to heat the water, making them a popular choice for homes without access to natural gas. Electric hot water systems are generally easy to install and maintain, and they come in a range of sizes to accommodate different household needs.

Another benefit of electric hot water systems is their versatility. They come in a range of sizes to accommodate different household needs, from small units for single-person homes to larger models that can serve larger families. This means you can choose a system that is perfectly tailored to your hot water usage requirements, ensuring that you have a reliable and efficient source of hot water at all times.

Further reading

Gas hot water systems

Another popular option is the gas hot water system. Gas hot water systems are also known for their quick recovery times, meaning they can provide hot water more quickly than some electric models. However, they do require access to a gas line, which may not be available in all areas.

Further reading

Solar hot water systems

Solar hot water systems are a increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact and save money on their energy bills. These systems use the power of the sun to heat water, which can be a highly efficient and cost-effective way to meet your home’s hot water needs.

One of the key advantages of solar hot water systems is their long-term cost savings. While the initial installation cost may be higher than traditional hot water systems, the ongoing energy savings can quickly offset this investment. Solar hot water systems are designed to harness the sun’s energy to heat the water, which means they require little to no electricity or gas to operate. This can result in significant reductions in your monthly utility bills, making them a smart long-term investment for your home.

In addition to their cost-saving benefits, solar hot water systems are also highly eco-friendly. By relying on renewable solar energy rather than fossil fuels, these systems help to reduce your home’s carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. This can be an important consideration for homeowners who are passionate about environmental conservation and want to do their part to reduce their impact on the planet.

Further reading

Heat pump hot water systems

Heat pump hot water systems are a innovative and energy-efficient option for homeowners looking to heat their water. These systems work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the water, rather than using direct heat sources like electricity or gas.

One of the key advantages of heat pump hot water systems is their impressive energy efficiency. By harnessing the ambient heat in the air, these systems can produce hot water using significantly less energy than traditional electric or gas-powered systems. This can translate to substantial savings on your monthly utility bills, making them a smart long-term investment for your home.

In addition to their energy efficiency, heat pump hot water systems are also highly versatile. They can be installed both indoors and outdoors, depending on the layout of your home and the available space. This flexibility allows homeowners to choose a system that best fits their needs and preferences, whether that’s a compact indoor unit or a larger outdoor model.

Factors to consider when choosing a hot water system

When it comes to choosing the right hot water system for your home, there are several important factors to consider. From energy efficiency and cost savings to installation requirements and ongoing maintenance, each aspect of a hot water system can have a significant impact on your overall satisfaction and long-term investment.

Energy efficiency
Size and capacity
Installation and maintenance

Energy efficiency

One of the primary factors to consider is the energy efficiency of the hot water system. This can have a direct impact on your monthly energy bills, as well as your home’s overall environmental footprint. Look for systems that are Energy Star certified or have high energy efficiency ratings, as these will typically be more cost-effective to operate and better for the planet.

When it comes to hot water systems, energy efficiency and cost savings are two of the most important factors for many homeowners. After all, the cost of heating water can be a significant portion of a household’s monthly energy bills, so finding a system that is both energy-efficient and cost-effective can have a significant impact on your overall budget.

One of the key ways to evaluate the energy efficiency of a hot water system is to look at its energy efficiency rating, or EER. This rating, which is typically displayed on the system’s packaging or in its product literature, provides a measure of how much energy the system uses to heat the water. The higher the EER, the more efficient the system is, and the lower your monthly energy costs are likely to be.

In addition to the EER, it’s also important to consider the ongoing operating costs of a hot water system. This includes factors such as the cost of electricity or gas needed to power the system, as well as any maintenance or repair expenses that may arise over time. By carefully evaluating these costs, you can get a better sense of the long-term financial impact of your hot water system choice.

For homeowners who are particularly focused on energy efficiency and cost savings, solar hot water systems and heat pump hot water systems can be especially appealing options. These systems leverage renewable energy sources or highly efficient heat transfer technology to heat water with significantly less energy than traditional electric or gas-powered systems. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term cost savings can make these systems a smart choice for many homeowners.

Size and capacity

Another important factor to consider is the size and capacity of the hot water system. Choosing a system that is too small for your household’s needs can result in insufficient hot water, while a system that is too large can be a waste of energy and resources. Be sure to carefully assess your family’s hot water usage patterns and select a system that is appropriately sized to meet your needs.

Installation and maintenance

In addition to energy efficiency and capacity, it’s also important to consider the installation and maintenance requirements of the hot water system. Some systems may be more complex to install, requiring the expertise of a professional plumber, while others may be more straightforward and easier to maintain on your own. Understanding these requirements can help you budget for the initial installation as well as any ongoing upkeep or repairs.

When it comes to installing and maintaining a hot water system, it’s important to consider the unique requirements and considerations of each type of system. From the initial installation process to the ongoing care and upkeep, understanding the specific needs of your hot water system can help ensure its long-term performance and efficiency.

For electric hot water systems, the installation process is generally straightforward and can often be handled by a homeowner with basic plumbing skills. These systems typically require a dedicated electrical circuit and may need to be connected to the home’s water supply and drainage systems. Ongoing maintenance, such as flushing the tank and checking for any leaks or issues, is also relatively simple and can be done on a regular basis.

Gas hot water systems, on the other hand, may require more specialised installation and maintenance. These systems need to be properly connected to a gas line, which may involve the expertise of a licensed plumber or HVAC technician. Additionally, the venting and combustion components of a gas hot water system require regular inspection and cleaning to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Solar hot water systems and heat pump hot water systems often have more complex installation requirements, as they involve specialised components and equipment. These systems may require the expertise of a professional installer to ensure they are properly integrated into the home’s plumbing and electrical systems. Ongoing maintenance, such as cleaning the solar panels or checking the refrigerant levels in a heat pump system, may also be more involved than traditional hot water systems.

Finding the perfect hot water system for your home

Choosing the right hot water system for your home is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your comfort, your budget, and your environmental footprint. By understanding the different types of hot water systems available and the key factors to consider, you can make an informed choice that best meets your needs and preferences.

Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity and versatility of an electric hot water system, the cost-effectiveness of a gas-powered model, the eco-friendliness of a solar system, or the innovative efficiency of a heat pump, there is a hot water solution out there that is perfect for your home. By carefully evaluating your options and weighing the pros and cons of each, you can find the system that will provide you with reliable, affordable, and sustainable hot water for years to come.

Remember, the decision you make today will have long-lasting consequences, so it’s important to take the time to research your options and make an informed choice. With the right hot water system in place, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of hot water whenever you need it, while also reaping the benefits of energy savings and a reduced environmental impact. So, take the time to explore your options and find the perfect hot water system for your home.

CALL NOW AND RECEIVE ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST

For advice and assistance choosing the right hot water system for your needs, contact our friendly team. We’re here to help. When you call Cheapa Hot Water, you’ll speak directly with a hot water specialist (not a receptionist or call centre).

Cheapa Hot Water Sydney

Save time and money by employing a local hot water specialist.

We offer free delivery of your new hot water system and complimentary disposal and recycling of your old water heater.
As one of Sydney’s largest hot water system suppliers, our enormous buying powers and ability to buy direct from the manufacturer means we can pass attractive savings on to our customers.
Our fully qualified, licensed hot water heater installers have 30+ years of experience each. We are fully insured and pride ourselves on our old-fashioned customer service.
We are accredited service agents for all the hot water heater brands including Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Aquamax, Bosch, Conergy, Hocking, Apricus, Vulcan, Edwards Solar, Solahart, Everhot and more.
We are qualified to undertake all the plumbing and electrical work required to install a new hot water system. There is no need to waste time and money employing multiple trades.
We have all the equipment needed to install your hot water system today. We don’t have to hire or wait for other trades to arrive with the required equipment.

Did you know that often the repair and installation of a hot water system requires the expertise and qualifications of both a licensed plumber and a licensed electrician?

We are qualified to undertake any plumbing and electrical work required to ensure your hot water heater is repaired quickly and within budget. Plumbers who do not specialise in the installation of hot water heaters may need to outsource the electrical work required to another tradesperson, thereby holding up your hot water system repair or installation, adding extra expense due to additional call-out fees charged by employing two tradespeople.

Your hot water heater is an expensive appliance. Don’t risk voiding your warranty.

Additionally, most manufacturers won’t cover the terms of your hot water system warranty if it isn’t installed by a licensed hot water technician or a qualified plumber. Hot water tanks are an expensive appliance so why would you risk voiding your warranty by installing it yourself or employing the services of someone who isn’t licensed?