Finding the Perfect Hot Water System for Your Home
Your hot water system is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. When it's time for a replacement — whether due to age, efficiency, or a sudden breakdown — choosing the right system can save you thousands over its lifetime.
Electric Storage Systems
Electric hot water systems heat and store water in an insulated tank, ready for use. They're affordable to purchase and install, making them a popular choice for smaller households.
Pros: Low upfront cost, simple installation, widely available.
Cons: Higher running costs compared to gas or solar, slower recovery time, larger tank needed for bigger households.
Best for: Apartments, small households, or homes without gas supply.
Gas Storage & Instantaneous Systems
Gas systems are available in both storage tank and continuous flow (instantaneous) configurations. Continuous flow systems heat water on demand, meaning you never run out.
Pros: Lower running costs than electric, endless hot water with instantaneous models, faster heating.
Cons: Requires gas connection, higher upfront cost for instantaneous units, ventilation requirements.
Best for: Medium to large households, homes with existing gas connections.
Solar Hot Water Systems
Solar systems use roof-mounted collectors to heat water using the sun's energy, with an electric or gas booster for cloudy days.
Pros: Lowest running costs, environmentally friendly, government rebates available.
Cons: High upfront cost, roof space required, dependent on sun exposure, booster still needed.
Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners, homes with good roof orientation, long-term investment.
Heat Pump Systems
Heat pumps work like a reverse air conditioner — they extract heat from the surrounding air to warm your water. They're highly efficient even in cooler climates.
Pros: Very energy efficient, lower running costs, eligible for government rebates, no roof panels needed.
Cons: Higher upfront cost, can be noisy, performance drops in very cold climates.
Best for: Energy-conscious households, homes without ideal solar orientation.
What Size Do You Need?
A general guide for storage systems:
- 1–2 people: 125–160L
- 3–4 people: 250–315L
- 5+ people: 315–400L
For instantaneous systems, flow rate (litres per minute) matters more than tank size. A plumber can assess your household's peak demand and recommend the right unit.
Need Help Deciding?
At 3rd Generation Plumbing, we supply and install all major brands of hot water systems. We'll assess your home, usage patterns, and budget to recommend the best option. Call us on 0499 599 658 for expert advice and a free quote.
