Australia’s Types Of Hot Water Systems Ranked

Have you just stepped out of the shower, having been greeted by a blast of icy water, for absolutely the final time? Whether you’re finally replacing that bung hot water system, or you’re building, or you’re renovating, choosing the right hot water system is a big decision. After all, it’s something you’ll rely on every single day – to avoid those infuriating icy showers! But with so many basic types of hot water systems on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

In Australia, various different types of hot water systems are available – each with their own pros and cons. From energy-efficient heat pumps to reliable gas storage tanks, the choice depends on your household size, budget, and even your local climate. To help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together a list – based on our years of experience in hot water repairs and hot water installation – of the most popular hot water system types in Australia. We’ve ranked them from least to most popular.

Understanding the different types of hot water system

Before we dive into our exclusive ranking, let’s take a quick look at the main types of hot water systems available in Australia:

• Heat pumps, ingeniously using ambient air to heat the water.
• Solar, harnessing the sun’s free energy.
• Electric instantaneous, to heat water on demand.
• Gas instantaneous, as above but powered by mains or bottled gas.
• Electric storage tanks, heating a big tank for you to use later.
• Gas storage tanks, as above but using mains or bottled gas.

With that out of the way, let’s dive into each type of hot water system in more detail, starting with the least popular and working our way to the most popular:

6. Heat pump systems (Least popular)

Heat pump hot water options are the least popular in Australia, but they’re definitely not without their merits. They work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and using it to warm your water. They’re incredibly energy-efficient, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Their popularity is limited by two main factors:

• Higher upfront costs, both in purchase and install price.
• Climate dependence, because they’re less effective in colder regions. In Brisbane and most of Australia, however, that’s not going to be a worry.

They also make a little more noise than the other systems, so you probably don’t want one directly outside your bedroom!

5. Solar hot water systems

Solar types of hot water heating systems are a close second in terms of popularity. As the name suggests, these systems use usually roof-located solar collectors to capture energy from the sun and heat your water. They’re ideal for sunny regions like Brisbane and can significantly reduce your energy bills over time.

That said, there are a few drawbacks:

• High installation costs – let’s be honest here!
• Worries about dependency on sunlight.
• The need for roof space for the collectors.

You may put solar in the ‘different hot water systems’ category, but they’re actually still popular for eco-conscious homeowners in sunny parts of Australia looking to spend less over time.

4. Electric instantaneous (Tankless) systems

Instantaneous systems heat water on demand, meaning there’s no need for a storage tank. They’re sleek and compact and space-saving, making them a great option for small households or apartments.

However, their popularity can be a little limited by:

• Limited capacity, as they can struggle to supply hot water to multiple taps at once.
• They can be more expensive to run that their gas counterparts, especially in peak electricity rates.

While they’re a convenient option for smaller homes, they’re not the most practical choice for larger ones.

3. Gas instantaneous (Tankless) systems

Gas instantaneous systems are a step up from their electric counterparts. They provide endless hot water with no waiting time and are more energy-efficient, making them a popular choice for many households, especially when considering how long a hot water system takes to heat up.

The main limitation is:

• They need a gas connection, so that means either mains gas or a bottle.

If you have a gas connection, though, gas instant systems are a reliable and efficient option.

2. Electric storage tank systems

Electric hot water storage tank systems are one of the most common types of hot water systems Australia offers. The original and still one of the best, they work by heating and storing water in a tank, ensuring you almost always have hot water on hand.

Their popularity is driven by:

• Affordability, as they’re cheap to buy and install.
• Wide availability, and compatible with just about every home, regardless of energy access.

However, they are among the most expensive to actually run, while standby heat loss – wasted energy keeping the water hot – means these systems are starting to show their age.

1. Gas storage tank systems (Most popular!)

Topping the list as the most popular hot water system types in Australia is the gas hot water storage tank system. These systems heat water quickly and are cheaper to run than electric tanks, making them a favourite for large households.

Their popularity is due to:

• Cost-effectiveness, because gas is generally cheaper than electricity.
• Reliability, for a steady supply of hot water even during peak usage times.

The only downside is the need for a gas connection, but many homes use LPG bottles for their access to gas and remain pretty happy with the outcome!

Need help choosing the right system?

Choosing from the various hot water system options can feel a little overwhelming – but you don’t have to do it alone! Whether you’re looking for expert advice, professional installation, or you just want to learn a bit more about your options, the team at S&J Hot Water Brisbane couldn’t be more willing to help.

With years of experience and a commitment to quality, affordable service, we’ll help you choose from the various types of hot water system for your home. Reach out to us today or use our website to tell us what you need. Remember: Your perfect Brisbane hot water solution is just a shout away!