What You Need to Know About Hot Water Systems
Hot Water Systems are a significant investment and should be carefully researched before you make a purchase. The system you choose will affect your energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions for years to come, so it’s worth spending some time researching the available options.
Whether you’re looking to replace your existing hot water system, doing extensive renovations or building a new home, it’s important that you take the time to look at all of the options. There are two main types of Hot Water Systems: storage systems and continuous flow (or instantaneous) heaters. It’s also worth considering heat pump systems.
Storage hot water systems heat water to a high temperature and then store it in an insulated tank until it is needed. They can be powered by electricity, natural gas (including LPG) or solar power. The insulated tank may be made from copper or glass (enamel) lined steel. It may also include a sacrificial anode to reduce tank corrosion. The hot water system should be properly sized for your household and connected to off-peak electricity tariffs to minimise operating costs.
Continuous flow or instantaneous hot water systems use less energy than storage systems, because they heat the water only when it is needed. They can be powered by natural gas, LPG, or electricity and may have either electronic ignition or a pilot flame. These systems can be used with solar power to further reduce operating costs.
The delivery temperature of hot water to your taps is regulated by law to prevent burns. A tempering valve is fitted to the system and controls the supply of hot water to a safe level of 50degC. It is a good idea to insulate your hot water pipes, particularly those leading from the water heater and those leading to your relief valve (for storage systems).
There are many things you can do to ensure your Hot Water System operates at its best. Regular maintenance, including checking the pressure and sacrificial anode, is essential. It’s also a good idea to install a rainwater tank, which can provide you with free, green water that can help reduce your energy bills and the amount of greenhouse gases your hot water system produces.
A qualified plumber, like the team at Hornsby Plumbing, can advise you on the best Hot Water System for your household and carry out professional installation.
Hot water system prices can vary significantly, depending on the brand and model of your chosen unit, as well as the size of your household and how often you use the system. It’s also worth comparing the purchase price of a new hot water system with the long-term operating costs to see which is the cheapest option for your household.
A new electric hot water system can cost between $400 and $2,500, while a new gas continuous flow or gas storage hot water system will typically cost between $4000 and $8500. It’s also worth considering a heat pump, which can reduce your running costs by up to 30% and reduce the amount of electricity or gas you need to use.