Efficient Warmth on Demand: Your Guide to Electric Instant Hot Water Systems
Need hot water at the flip of a switch? Instant electric hot water systems offer this modern convenience. Our guide walks you through the benefits, installation, and costs, giving you all the insights to determine if they are the right upgrade for your home.
Key Takeaways
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Instantaneous electric hot water systems are energy-efficient, providing hot water on demand without the need for a storage tank, and are particularly suitable for homes with limited space.
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The costs of these systems range from $450 to $1,599 with lower installation costs than storage units, but one must consider the household size, frequency of use, and energy consumption for running costs.
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Taking steps like choosing energy-efficient models, ensuring correct installation, and maintaining the system every 2-3 years can maximize the efficiency of instant electric hot water systems.
Find comfort and affordability by getting in touch with a helpful hot water specialist from JR Gas and Water today. Call 1800 161 280 or e-mail us, we are always happy to answer your questions.
Exploring Instant Electric Hot Water Systems
Instant electric hot water systems, also known as electric water heaters, operate on a simple yet efficient principle - they heat water as you need it. Cold water flows through an S bend pipe equipped with a special electric heating element that heats the water as it passes through. Imagine having a personal chef who cooks only the amount you’re going to eat, when you’re going to eat. It’s that efficient!
This technology is a significant departure from traditional water heating systems. It involves a new approach to the water heating system:
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Heating water only when required
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Cutting down on energy consumption and running costs
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Making them an appealing alternative to traditional storage tank models
Instantaneous electric hot water systems are a more efficient option compared to an electric water heater that heats a large volume of hot water and stores it for later use.
Benefits of Instant Electric Hot Water in Your Home
There’s a multitude of reasons why more and more homeowners are gravitating towards instant electric hot water systems. For one, these systems are highly energy-efficient. Some models, such as heat pump water heaters, consume as little as 30% of the energy compared to a conventional electric hot water system. So, you can have all the hot water you need without worrying about your energy bills skyrocketing.
Additionally, the compact design of these systems makes them an excellent choice for homes with limited space. They can be easily installed in tight corners, freeing up valuable space that would otherwise be occupied by a bulky storage tank. But the icing on the cake is the continuous hot water supply, ensuring a continuous flow. No more juggling between laundry and showers or worrying about running out of hot water in the middle of a relaxing soak.
Understanding Single-Phase Electric Hot Water Systems
Having familiarized ourselves with instant electric hot water systems, it’s time to delve into the specifics of single-phase electric hot water systems. These systems operate with only one phase of electrical power, making them a bit less powerful than their three-phase counterparts but much easier to install and maintain.
The installation process for a single-phase electric hot water system is straightforward and involves constructing a platform for the water heater, positioning the tank in the center, and carrying out basic soldering. The maintenance is also quite simple, with typical tasks including scheduling professional inspections, checking the anode rod, cleaning the air filters, and inspecting the condenser and evaporator coils.
So if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-maintain hot water solution, a single-phase electric hot water system might be your answer.
Electric Hot Water System Costs: What to Expect
The decision to opt for an instant electric hot water system involves considering not only its features but also its costs. The typical cost of an instant electric hot water system varies between $450 and $1,599, influenced by the chosen brand and model for installation. Interestingly, these systems tend to have a lower installation cost compared to storage units, providing a cost advantage during the initial setup. However, their operating cost is significantly influenced by energy consumption.
Annual energy costs can differ based on the system and household size, but opting for an energy-efficient model with a reliable electricity provider can help lower long-term expenses and environmental impact.
Assessing Your Hot Water Needs
Hot water needs vary and are not one-size-fits-all. The capacity of your hot water system should align with your household’s hot water demands. Here are some factors to consider:
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The size of your house
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The number of bathrooms in your home
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The number of people living in your household
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The frequency of hot water usage
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The simultaneous demand for hot water from multiple outlets
Larger houses or homes with more bathrooms typically require a system with higher capacity to meet the simultaneous demand for hot water from multiple outlets.
To get a rough estimate of your daily hot water needs, consider that the average hot water usage per person in a household ranges from 50 to 76 litres per day. Online calculators can be handy for estimating the energy needs and costs based on your daily hot water usage patterns and the specific type of system you are considering.
Comparing Energy Rates and Usage
Apart from evaluating your hot water requirements, comparing energy rates and usage is also an important factor in choosing an electric hot water system. The typical energy costs for electric hot water systems vary widely, with a standard water heater typically using about 4000 watts and operating for 3-5 hours daily.
To measure the energy usage of your instant electric hot water system, you can calculate it by multiplying the hours for which the heater is active by the price paid per kWh. Remember, the energy usage varies among different models. For instance, heat pump water heaters use 60-75% less energy than conventional electric hot water systems, making them a more energy-efficient choice.
Installation Insights: Setting Up Your Instant Hot Water System
Selecting an appropriate instant electric hot water system and comprehending its optimal usage is crucial, but ensuring its correct installation is of paramount importance. A properly installed system can operate at its highest efficiency, reducing heat loss and leading to energy and cost savings. Plus, it minimizes the risk of any potential damage due to incorrect setup.
When it comes to the installation process, professional help from a plumbing company is the way to go. Professionals not only ensure proper sealing and connection of the supply pipes but also adhere to local regulations and standards. They can help you choose the best location for your system, considering factors like the distance from taps and easy access for future maintenance. Also, they can help you avoid common installation errors like dry firing, using an outdoor unit indoors, and incorrectly attaching the drain line.
The Top Picks for Instant Electric Hot Water Systems
Given the wide variety of instant electric hot water systems in the market, making the right choice can be challenging. But don’t worry, we’ve done some homework for you. Stiebel Eltron, Rinnai Flowmaster, and Bosch Electric Tankless are some of the top picks in this segment.
The Stiebel Eltron instant electric hot water system is renowned for providing instant access to hot water, ensuring an uninterrupted supply for your home. On the other hand, the Rinnai Flowmaster electric hot water system is highly efficient, boasting a 5.6-star rating, and can deliver 10 litres of hot water per minute at a 25°C rise. Last but not least, Bosch Electric Tankless hot water systems are recognized for their exceptional energy efficiency, with specific models attaining energy ratings exceeding 6 stars.
Maximizing Efficiency with Instant Electric Hot Water
After you’ve selected and installed your instant electric hot water system, it’s important to focus on maximizing its efficiency. And, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. To start with, opt for energy-efficient models like heat pump water heaters or solar hot water systems that consume less energy.
A correct installation can also boost your system’s efficiency, reducing heat loss and leading to energy and cost savings. Regular maintenance is equally crucial, with services recommended every 2-3 years. Some DIY maintenance tips include:
Lastly, to maximize efficiency, set the temperature to a minimum of 60 degrees Celsius for optimal performance.
Alternatives to Instantaneous Electric Hot Water Systems
Although instant electric hot water systems are suitable for many households, they might not be the optimal choice for all. If you’re in a larger household or prefer lower running costs, you might want to consider alternatives like gas-powered systems, electric storage units, and heat pumps.
Gas-powered hot water systems, for instance, offer lower running costs and higher energy efficiency as they heat water continuously rather than only when the hot tap is turned on. Electric storage hot water units, while limited by their tank capacity, are usually cheaper to install and operate compared to instant systems.
Heat pumps, on the other hand, function by transferring heat from a cool space to a warm space, similar to how a refrigerator operates in reverse.
Choosing the Right Provider for Your Instant Hot Water Needs
Selecting a reliable provider for your instant hot water needs is as vital as choosing an appropriate system. The leading providers of instant electric hot water systems include:
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Solahart
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Chromagen
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Rinnai
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AquaMAX
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Rheem
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Dux
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Vulcan
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Thermann
When selecting a provider, consider the following factors:
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Range of products
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Installation services
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Warranties
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Customer support
A good provider will assess if an instantaneous system is suitable for your home and offer the type of system that best suits your needs. It’s also important to check whether the manufacturer provides a warranty for their products. Most manufacturers generally provide a one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Lastly, consider the provider’s customer service. Ensure they align with your business goals and objectives and can provide a streamlined workflow.
Navigating Power Outages with Instantaneous Electric Hot Water Systems
There are many unexpected events in life, power outages being one of them. While power outages can affect instant electric hot water systems, causing them to malfunction or reset to factory settings, there are ways to navigate these situations.
Backup power options such as generators, campfires, UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), and backup batteries can help keep your system running during a power outage. If your system does get affected by a power outage, you can reset the thermostat or turn off the power supply to the water heater, wait for a few minutes, and then turn the power supply back on.
Typically, it takes about 2 hours for an instant electric hot water system to restore full functionality after a power outage.
Maintenance Compared: Electric vs. Other Types of Hot Water Systems
Like any appliance, hot water systems also require significant maintenance. When it comes to electric hot water systems, the maintenance is generally easier and less frequent compared to gas or solar-powered systems.
For an electric hot water system, it’s recommended to have a minor service every six months and a major service every five years. Regular maintenance not only ensures optimal performance but also extends the lifespan of your system.
So whether you have an electric hot water system or any other type, remember that regular checks and servicing are essential for its smooth operation.
Summary
In conclusion, instant electric hot water systems are an efficient, reliable, and convenient solution for your hot water needs. They offer continuous hot water, are energy-efficient, and require less space compared to traditional storage units. While they have a higher upfront cost, their lower operating costs can result in significant savings in the long run.
Whether you opt for a single-phase system or explore other alternatives, the key is to assess your hot water needs, understand energy rates and usage, and choose a reputable provider. With the right system and proper maintenance, you can enjoy a steady stream of hot water without driving up your energy bills. So why wait? Bring home an instant electric hot water system and enjoy the comfort of hot water at your fingertips.
Contact our electric instant hot water specialists today by calling 1800 161 280 or sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get instantaneous electric hot water?
Yes, you can get instantaneous electric hot water with an on-demand system that heats water as it flows through the unit, providing an efficient and popular solution for heating water.
Are instant electric hot water systems any good?
Yes, instant electric hot water systems are good because they use less energy and tend to last longer due to not having a storage tank.
What is the best electric instant water heater?
The best electric instant water heater would be the Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater. It's known for its efficiency and reliability.
Are instant electric hot water systems more energy-efficient than traditional storage units?
Yes, instant electric hot water systems are more energy-efficient than traditional storage units because they only heat water as needed, leading to lower energy consumption.
How often should I have my instant electric hot water system serviced?
You should have a minor service every six months and a major service every five years to keep your instant electric hot water system in good condition.
