Choosing the right hot water heater for your home

Each day households use many different systems and appliances to make our lives more comfortable and convenient. Your hot water system is definitely up there as one of the most important household items. In fact, unlike your heating or air conditioning system, the water heater doesn’t get an off-season.

When looking at different types of hot water systems, it’s important to consider your home’s needs, along with the pros and cons of each.

Keep in mind though, no matter which hot water system you choose, you can rest assured that On The Job Plumbing will take care of all your system needs.

To help you get started, we’ve outlined a guide to help you determine which type of hot water system may be best for your home and family’s needs.

GAS HOT WATER SYSTEMS

Advantages

Instantaneous hot water

With the pilot light models, you will have the benefit of hot water if the power goes out in your home.

Gas hot water systems can be somewhat more cost effective than electric systems.

If your home already has a gas line, a gas water heater will likely be a far cheaper model to use and maintain.

Disadvantages

Typically the initial purchase of a gas hot water heater is slightly more expensive.

Life expectancy

Approx. 15 years

ELECTRIC HOT WATER SYSTEMS

Advantages

You can use your PV solar system to run your standard electric hot water system.

Initial purchasing costs are lower.

Disadvantages

Electric hot water systems have a far slower recovery rate. So if you have a big family this may not be the best choice for your home.

Electric hot water systems WON’T WORK in the event of a power outage, so if you live in an area prone to storms you may want to opt for a gas hot water unit instead.

The running costs of the electricity itself.

Life expectancy

Approx. 12 years

SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEMS

Advantages

Installing a solar hot water system is a great way to start saving money on your electricity bills and reducing your carbon footprint.

Solar is more cost effective.

Solar thermal panels are efficient, with approx.. 80% turned into heat energy.

Installing solar hot water attracts great government rebates in most States around Australia.

Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home.

Disadvantages:

Initial outlay for the solar panels.

Even with the solar rebates available, what you’ll spend to buy and install a solar system can mean waiting a few years to recover your initial investment costs.

Life expectancy

Solar hot water systems are expected to last well over 10 years, depending on how often it’s serviced, where it’s installed and how it’s used.

NOTE: Solar thermal panels can only heat water.

SOLAR PV PANELS however, generate electricity and some of this electricity can be used to heat water. So there is more flexibility with solar PV panels

If you need help making the right choice, we’re happy to help! You can contact us here: https://www.onthejobplumbing.com.au/book-now/