FAQs

General

This is very dependent on your needs. The key things you will need to consider when choosing a hot water system includes the following:

  • Heating method – will it be run by electricity, gas or solar
  • Size – the size of the system will vary greatly depending on household or commercial space size and the amount of hot water required. For domestic hot water systems, the rule is 50L of hot water per day per person, but this may vary
  • Energy efficiency – this is an important one to consider
  • Cost – what is your budget
  • Storage or continuous flow – majority of hot water systems use a storage tank, but continuous flow hot water systems heat water instantaneously as water passes through it, meaning there is a continual supply.

Need help figuring it out? Call us on 1300 728 12

To put it plainly, no!

Beside from it being illegal to install your own hot water system in Australia, it’s also extremely dangerous, particularly when you don’t know what you’re doing. The installation must be carried out by a certified professional – either a plumber or electrician or both.

It is also important to know, if you do install your hot water system yourself, you will void any warranty or government rebates associated with your system.

Electric Hot Water Systems
These are often cheaper to buy and get installed but are less cost effective in the long run as they’re powered by electricity and the associated cost of that can be quite large. Electric hot water systems are, however, versatile, can be installed indoors or outdoors and come in a variety of size to suit all requirements.

Gas Hot Water Systems
Generally, gas hot water systems are cheaper to run than electric ones, but their initial outlay is more expensive. They utilise either natural gas or LPG and, in most cases, they need to be installed outside for ventilation reasons, except if a flue is present. Similar to above, gas hot water systems come in a range of sizes and capacities to suite your needs.

Hot Water Heat Pumps
More energy efficient than a standard electric hot water systems, heat pumps use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating it directly. In short, they absorb the heat from the outside air to warm up your water. These too are available in a range of sizes.

Solar Hot Water Systems
Whilst the initial outlay for a solar hot water system will be more, the long-term savings associated with these systems can be amazing. Solar hot water systems allow the sun’s energy to heat hot water all year round. While solar is reliable even when the sun doesn’t shine, purchasing a boosters to add to the system can ensure you never run out of hot water. There are some rebates available with solar hot water systems. Check your local government website for more details

Still don’t know which system to choose? Give us a call on 1300 728 122 and we’ll gladly help you.

This is a good question, but one where the  answer is different for the varying situations. You need to consider things such as available roof space, the current price of electricity as well as access to gas.

If you already have access to gas (i.e. you don’t need gas lines and bottles installed) consider a gas hot water systems or solar hot water systems with a gas booster. Bear in mind this will be a more expensive initial outlay, but the ongoing saving are worth thinking about.

If you are considering an electric hot water system, make sure you investigate the electricity tariffs and you’re peak or off-peak times? Electric water heating on off-peak times can equate to low running costs.

This can be difficult to gauge and generally why most people get caught off guard and without hot water. A few tell-tale signs, however, can include:

  • Lots of noise coming from the system
  • A sudden lack of hot water
  • If the colour of your water is anything but crystal clear

Generally, this is anywhere between eight to 12 years and depends on the type of system you have. Over time, your hot water system may need parts replaced to ensure it continues running efficiently but this isn’t to say the whole system needs replacing. If you’re uncertain, a qualified plumber can advise on the best course of action.

Each system should have a more exact time frame in the manufacturer’s warranty.

Mains pressure hot water systems have all taps and water outlets connected to that system from the incoming water main

Not all hot water systems are the same, meaning some units can’t offer this, namely coli or continuous hot water systems and only because their water flow through the system is restricted to when and if needed.

Some advantages to a mains pressure hot water system is that it will heat water and store it so there is instant hot water when a tap or shower is turned on. These systems also ensure a consistent water pressure no matter how many contraptions are running at one time, i.e. multiple showers, a washing machine, and a  dishwasher.

A mains pressure hot water system is however at the mercy of the mains pressure, meaning if the pressure at the water main isn’t strong, neither will your shower, bath or tap.

As mentioned above, yes.

Electric hot water systems will generally use more electricity and therefore impact your electricity bill, more than a gas hot water system or solar hot water system will. You will still be paying for gas supplies if you choose a gas hot water system, however, the tariff is generally cheaper than electricity.

We have warehouses in Narangba and Warana in Queensland.

We offer Australia wide delivery and highly recommend this option rather than collecting yourself. Once a purchase has been made, we can deliver directly to your door fast.

A booster is a backup water heating device used in conjunction with your solar hot water system to ensure hot water is always available, even after long term periods of cloudy or rainy weather. A booster can be run by either gas or electricity and can be turned on and off as per your needs.

If any of your questions have still not been answer, please give us a call on 1300 728 122 or fill out out contact form here.