Energy efficient hot water systems.
One of the most common questions we’re asked by customers is “what is the most energy efficient hot water system?”.
With the rising cost of living, concerns about energy supply stability, and climate change considerations, it’s no wonder energy efficient hot water is top of many people’s minds.
Hot water heating accounts for approximately 30% of our daily household energy usage, so, switching to a more energy efficient hot water system may be one of the quickest and easiest ways to reduce your bills.
Unfortunately, there is not one simple answer to the question “What is the most energy efficient hot water system”. Everyone’s needs vary and the correct answer relies on a number of different factors depending upon your hot water usage requirements, budget and choice of hot water service energy supply (i.e. gas, solar or electric).
- Tips for choosing an energy efficient hot water system »
- Make your hot water heater more energy efficient »
- Smart hot water systems »
Tips for choosing an energy efficient hot water system
To gain an insight into your hot water usage needs, and to ensure we recommend the right system, we may ask the following questions:
- What is your current hot water system (solar, gas, electric)? What is the make and model?
- Is your current hot water system serving your needs adequately? Have you been happy with it’s performance?
- Do you ever run out of hot water? Would you like access to more hot water?
- How much are your monthly / quarterly energy bills?
- Is your household going to change in the near and long term? Are you planning a family? Will young children be growing up? Will the household be downsizing (i.e. kids leaving home)?
- Are you planning to renovate? For example, the addition of more appliances will increase the demands on your hot water system.
- Is it important that your hot water system reduces it’s environmental impact?
- Do you prefer to support Australian made products or are you happy to purchase overseas imports?
- Is a quality hot water system with a longer warranty more important than cost saving upfront?
- What space is available for your hot water system? Where is your current hot water system installed (inside / outside / roof)? Can the hot water system be moved elsewhere (i.e. from inside to outside)?
How do I make my hot water heater more energy efficient?
Saving money on your hot water system typically involves reducing energy consuption and maintenance costs. Again, every households hot water usage differs so, saving money on your hot water system varies for everyone. Below we have put together our top tips for how you can save money on your hot water system, some of which we hope you can apply to your needs.
- Reduce hot water usage – The installation of water saving fixtures like low-flow showerheads and taps can reduce hot water usage.
- Fix hot water leaks – Leaking taps and pipes should be fixed to prevent hot water wastage.
- Lower your hot water thermostat – Simply by lowering the temperature of your hot water can reduce energy consumption. Under Australian law the internal temperature of a hot water heater must be set at 70 degrees celsius. This temperature kills harmful bacteria and preserves a safe operating temperature for your hot water system. How do I set the termperature of my hot water heater »
- Insulate hot water pipes: Pipe insulation can result in energy savings and faster hot water delivery. By insulating hot water pipes, heat loss is reduced as the hot water travels from the heater to taps and appliances.
- Practice hot water efficiency: Be mindful of how you use hot water. Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads. Consider taking shorter showers to reduce hot water usage.
- Install a timer or switch to off peak: A timer / smart controller or switching to off peak for your hot water system schedules heating times based on your household’s usage patterns. This can help avoid heating water when it’s not needed, saving energy.
- Get your hot water system serviced regularly: To ensure your hot water system is running efficiently, it should be serviced every five years. A service can detect and rectify problems which prevent catastrophic breakdown and prolong the life of your hot water heater. The importance of regular hot water heater service »
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient system: Advancements in hot water heating technology and energy saving features mean that new hot water systems are considerably more energy efficient than older models.
- Government incentives: Take advantage of Government incentives and rebates available and you could save thousands when you upgrade to a more energy efficient hot water system. Find out if you’re eligible to claim a hot water rebate »
- Monitor your hot water usage: Keep track of your hot water system’s energy usage and costs to identify opportunities for further savings and to detect any issues promptly. After making changes, compare past energy bills to monitor your success.
By implementing these strategies, you can save money on your energy bills and running costs of your hot water system. You’ll also reduce your energy consumption and environmental impact.
What is a smart hot water system?
A smart hot water system is an advanced, energy-efficient solution that uses smart technology to optimise water heating and usage.
A smart hot water heater connects to your Wi-Fi and can be controlled remotely through an app, allowing you to set heating schedules, monitor energy consumption, and adjust temperatures according to your needs.
By optimising heating times through remote management, a smart hot water system is a convenient and economical way to reduce energy consumption, especially during off-peak hours, saving on your energy bills.
Features of smart water heaters
- Control and monitor the system via an app from anywhere, adjusting settings to save energy.
- Some systems learn your usage patterns and automatically adjust to provide hot water when needed, saving energy during low-demand times.
- Track how much energy is being used, and get insights on cost savings.
- Many smart hot water systems will integrate with smart hot systems like Google Home, Alexa, or other smart home ecosystems, enabling voice control or routines.
- Smart sensors detect issues, like water leaks, and send notifications, reducing potential damage and maintenance costs.
Further reading: Thermann Smart Hot Water System »
Questions?
For advice on how you can make your hot water heater more energy efficient, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. When you call, you’ll speak direct with a hot water specialist with decades of experience. We don’t outsource to call centres or support staff. You’ll speak directly with an expert. We’re here to help.
Cheapa Hot Water Sydney
Hot water is our business – it’s not a sideline. Each year we repair and install hundreds of hot water systems in homes and businesses across Sydney.
- 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.
Save time and money by employing a local hot water expert
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?
