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Service in the media
Service in the media
Service in the media

Hot Water Units

An effective hot water unit is an essential feature in both residential and commercial settings, making life significantly more efficient and comfortable. 

A quality system should be reliable enough to meet the needs of your family or business, providing you with the hot water you need for cooking, cleaning, and bathing.

We go into more detail below about installing hot water heaters and how to select the right one for your situation.

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Get quotes from our qualified and licensed tradies Australia-wide.

Overview

  • What is a hot water unit?
  • Types of hot water units
  • Factors to consider when choosing a hot water unit
  • Who can install a hot water unit?
  • How much do hot water units cost in Australia?
  • How to choose the right renovation professional
  • Questions to ask your contractor
  • Frequently asked questions

rain-shower-head

What is a hot water unit?

Hot water units are devices that heat and store water for use in homes, offices, and other commercial locations. Having a good quality unit ensures a steady supply of hot water, even during peak demand periods, making them a crucial component of modern living.

They come in different types and sizes, each with their own pros and cons.

Types of Hot Water Units

The four main types of hot water heaters to consider include electric, gas, solar, and heat pump.

Electric Hot Water Units

Electric water heaters are the most common type of hot water unit for homes and small commercial establishments. They are easy to install, require minimal plumbing and ventilation, and are relatively low maintenance. 

Electric hot water units work by using one or two heating elements to heat water stored in a tank. The metal elements are submerged in the water, and when turned on, they heat up and transfer the heat to the water, raising its temperature to the desired level.

Advantages of electric hot water units:

  • Energy efficiency: They’re more energy-efficient than gas water heaters, as they don’t have a pilot light that burns continuously. 
  • Safety: Electric water heaters are also considered safer than gas water heaters, as there’s no risk of gas leaks or combustion. 
  • Noise: They’re lso quiet, making them ideal for households where noise levels are a concern.

Disadvantages of electric hot water units:

  • Cost: Electric water heaters can be expensive to operate, as electricity costs more than natural gas or propane. 
  • Output: They may also have limited hot water output, which can be a problem for households with high hot water demand.

Most suitable for:

Electric water heating systems are best suited for homes and businesses with moderate hot water demand. They’re also ideal for properties with limited space, as they can be mounted on a wall. Electric water heaters are commonly used in small apartments, units, and vacation homes, where space and energy efficiency are important factors.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters are the second most common type of hot water unit, operating on natural gas or propane. They work by using a burner to heat water stored in the tank, where the heat is transferred to the water through a heat exchanger. As the water in the tank heats up, it rises to the top, and the cold water at the bottom of the tank is replaced with hot water.

Advantages of gas hot water units:

  • Speed: Gas units heat water much faster than electric water heaters. 
  • Cost: They are also more affordable to operate than electric units, as natural gas is often cheaper than electricity. This makes them one of the most affordable hot water heaters for small businesses.
  • Reliability: Gas water heaters can still operate during power outages, unlike electric systems that require electricity to operate. 
  • Output: They can provide a high hot water output, making them perfect for households with multiple bathrooms or many people.

Disadvantages of gas hot water units:

  • Initial setup: Gas water heaters can be more expensive to install than their electric counterparts, as they require a dedicated gas line and proper ventilation.
  • Energy efficiency: They may also be less energy-efficient than electric hot water units, as they have a pilot light that burns continuously. 
  • Safety: Gas systems have the potential to pose a safety risk, as there is a risk of gas leaks or combustion.

Most suitable for:

Gas water heaters are best suited to properties with high hot water demands. This includes homes with large families, multiple bathrooms, or commercial spaces with generally high hot water usage, such as restaurants or hotels. 

hand-turning-knob-hot-water-unit

Solar Hot Water Units

Solar water heaters are an incredibly eco-friendly and energy-efficient option as they use the sun's energy to heat your water. They work by using solar panels to absorb sunlight and heat transfer fluid, which then directs heat to the water stored in a tank.

Advantages of solar hot water units:

  • Energy efficiency: They can reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, as they rely on renewable energy sources.
  • Maintenance: Solar water heaters are also low maintenance, as they have few moving parts and require little upkeep.
  • Longevity: They have a long lifespan, lasting up to 20 years.

Disadvantages of solar hot water units:

  • Cost: One of the main disadvantages of solar water heaters is their upfront cost, which can be higher than other types of hot water units. The cost of installation and maintenance can also be greater.
  • Installation: Solar hot water systems require a large roof area for installation, and the orientation and angle of the roof must be suitable for optimal sunlight exposure. 
  • Backup heating: They may also require a backup heating source, such as an electric or gas water heater, for times when there is insufficient sunlight.

Most suitable for: 

Solar hot water units are most suitable for homes and businesses in sunny locations with moderate to high hot water demands. They’re also highly desirable if you have a green energy focus and the preference to reduce your carbon footprint. Solar hot water systems may also be best for rural areas where access to natural gas or electricity is limited or costly.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump units work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and using it to heat water. They use a compressor and a refrigerant to transfer heat from the air to the water stored in a tank.

Advantages of heat pump hot water systems:

  • Energy efficiency: They are more energy-efficient than electric or gas water heaters, as they use ambient air temperature to heat the water, rather than generating heat. 
  • Eco-friendly: Heat pump water heaters can help reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint.
  • Longevity: They also have a long lifespan, and they can last up to 20 years.

Disadvantages of heat pump hot water systems:

  • Cost: One of the main disadvantages of heat pump water heaters is their upfront cost, which can be higher than other types of water heaters. 
  • Location: They require a large space for installation, and they may not work as efficiently in colder climates. 
  • Backup heating: Heat pump systems may also require a backup heating source, such as an electric or gas water heater, for times when there is insufficient heat in the surrounding air.

Most suitable for:

Heat pump water heaters are perfect for homes or businesses with moderate to high hot water demands, where energy efficiency is a priority. If you’re focused on green energy and reducing your carbon footprint, this could be a great option for you.

woman-showering-foam

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hot Water Unit

When choosing a hot water unit, there are several factors to consider, including size and capacity, energy efficiency, cost and budget, installation requirements, and maintenance requirements.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a hot water unit should be based on the hot water requirements of the property. A larger tank or higher output unit may be necessary for houses or businesses frequently using water. According to Sustainability Victoria, on average, one person uses at least 50L of hot water per day.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency should be a priority when choosing a hot water unit. Look for units with a high energy star rating or those that use renewable energy sources such as solar or heat pumps.

Cost and Budget

The cost of the unit and installation should be considered when making your choice. Determine your budget and look for units that fit within your price range, remembering that costs include initial setup and ongoing maintenance.

Installation Requirements

Consider the installation requirements of the unit, including plumbing, ventilation, and electrical. Ensure that the unit can be installed safely and according to local codes and regulations.

Maintenance Requirements

Consider the maintenance requirements of the unit, including cleaning, flushing, and replacing parts. Choose a unit that requires minimal maintenance and has a long lifespan.

Who can install a hot water unit?

In Australia, the installation of a hot water unit must be carried out by a licensed plumber or gasfitter. This is to ensure that the process is performed safely and in compliance with local regulations and standards.

Licensed plumbers and gasfitters have undergone the necessary training to install hot water systems, as well as other plumbing and gas-related tasks. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced contractor to ensure that the job is done correctly and to avoid any potential safety hazards or future issues with the system.

It is also worth noting that some local authorities may require permits or approvals for the installation of hot water units, particularly for larger or more complex systems. It is important to check with your local council or regulatory body to determine what’s required before proceeding with the installation.

tap-flowing-water

How much do hot water units cost in Australia?

The cost of a hot water unit in Australia can vary widely depending on the type of system, the size and capacity of the unit, and other factors such as installation costs and local regulations.

Here are the approximate starting prices for different types of hot water systems in Australia:

  • Electric water heaters: From $500
  • Gas water heaters: $800 to $2,000
  • Solar hot water systems: $2,000 to $7,000
  • Heat pump water heaters: $2,000 to $4,000

It's worth noting that the actual installation costs can also vary depending on the type of system and the complexity of the installation. In general, installation costs can add several hundred to several thousand dollars to the total cost of the unit.

It's important to research and compare different options and to consider factors such as energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and long-term savings when deciding on a hot water unit that best suits your needs and budget.

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How to Choose the Right Contractor

Here are some tips for hiring the best plumber or gasfitter for your hot water unit installation:

1. Gather Quotes

Enter the information outlining your job on Service.com.au, and we'll provide you with a list of local businesses that can help.

2. Narrow Down Your Search

Service.com.au uses a three-tier badge system to help you make an informed choice.

We recommend choosing a business with the highest level (badge 3 – ‘recommended’) from our three-step verification process.

3. Do Further Research

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check out the business’ online presence to learn about their reputation and services. Visit their website and social media pages to view their past customer reviews.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Here are some questions that can be helpful to ask when hiring a contractor for your installation:

  • Can you provide references from previous work?
  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • How long have you been in business?
  • Do you have the relevant experience and training to install a hot water system?
  • How do you communicate with customers during the process?
  • Are you flexible with your schedule, and can you work on weekends if necessary?

As you can see, when choosing the best type of hot water unit for your needs, it’s important to consider the features of each and the factors that will affect its efficiency, cost, and lifespan. Electric, gas, solar, and heat pump water heaters all have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one can help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and ensure that you have hot water exactly when you need it.

water-spray

Hot Water Unit FAQs

How do hot water units work?

Hot water units work by heating water and storing it in a tank until it’s needed. The most common types of hot water units are electric, gas, solar, and heat pump water heaters, and each of these works in slightly different ways.

What is the cheapest hot water system to run?

The cheapest hot water system to run depends on the type of system, energy source used, and energy efficiency. Heat pump water heaters tend to be the most energy-efficient, extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the water. They can be up to three times more energy-efficient than electric water heaters and up to six times more efficient than gas water heaters. Electric water heaters are generally more expensive to run than gas water heaters due to the higher cost of electricity. The cost of gas can vary, so it's important to compare energy costs in your area. 

Overall, the cheapest hot water system depends on your individual circumstances and energy costs, but heat pump water heaters tend to be the most cost-effective in the long run.

How long do hot water units last?

The lifespan of hot water units varies by type, quality, and maintenance. Electric and gas water heaters typically last around 10 – 12 years, while solar hot water systems last 15 – 20 years, and heat pump water heaters last over 20 years. Maintenance such as flushing the tank annually and replacing the anode rod can help prolong the lifespan. Professional inspections are also important. Consider the unit's age and condition before deciding whether to repair or replace it.

Contact local experts today to learn more about installing a new hot water system.

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Get quotes from our qualified and licensed tradies Australia-wide.

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