Electric hot water systems are relatively cheap and easy to install. They usually require a 240-volt supply, which is often already connected in your home.
They use electricity to heat your water - which can be generated from fossil fuels or from renewable energy. Electric storage tank systems are cheaper to run than gas or solar models.
Efficient
Water heating uses up a quarter of typical household energy consumption. Choosing an efficient heater can reduce your costs and also help the environment.
Electric models heat your water using electricity sourced from renewable sources, so they are better for the environment. You can choose to use a tank system that will store your hot water for cheaper 'off-peak' tariffs at night or a continuous flow model that only heats the water when you turn on a tap.
Gas systems run on fossil fuels, so they aren't as good for the environment. They are cheaper than electricity, but they can't be used during blackouts and are not as green as solar or wind powered electricity.
A small electric demand model is more efficient than a continuous flow gas unit, but you need to ensure your house's electrical wiring can handle it. Insulating your hot water pipes is important, too. This can reduce heat loss and wasted energy, especially if the hot water pipe run is long.
Convenient
Electric tank water heaters are simpler to install and operate than gas models. Almost all homes have the 240-volt connection already running to the water heater area, and if not, it’s easy for an electrician to add a new circuit. Gas water heaters, however, require gas connections and can be expensive to run from the street to the home.
If your area’s electricity comes from renewable resources, an electric water heater will be healthier for the environment. This is because gas water heaters rely on natural gas, which is retrieved from the Earth in a wasteful and destructive process and releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Electric tank and point-of-use electric hot water systems are available in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. If you want to upgrade your system, you can even find ENERGY STAR® certified models that use up to 40% less energy than standard units. For the ultimate in energy efficiency, you can also get a hybrid heat pump or combi boiler.
Affordable
The electric hot water system is an affordable option for many households, particularly in warm and temperate regions. They are especially popular in Victoria where electricity is more cost-effective than gas and there are government rebates on offer to help offset the purchase costs.
The first decision you need to make when choosing an electric hot water system is whether to go for a storage tank or continuous flow model. The former uses a small tank to heat and store water overnight so it is ready for use during the day, while the latter heats water on demand as you need it.
If you have solar panels, an electric hot water system is a good choice as it will maximise the power your home is producing and reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. You can also save on energy costs by upgrading to a heat pump hot water system, which uses electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind, sun and hydropower.
Reliable
An electric hot water system is a reliable and economical choice for homes that don’t have access to gas. It is made up of a tank filled with water, an electric element, and a thermostat to regulate the temperature. As cold water enters the tank, the element heats up to provide hot water on demand. The hot water then flows out through pipes to your home’s faucets and fixtures. The thermostat monitors the temperature in the tank and cycles the heating elements on and off as needed to maintain the set temperature.
When selecting an electric storage hot water system, it’s important to consider several critical factors including capacity, energy efficiency, type of tank, installation requirements, maintenance, and brand reputation. A professional can assess your home and recommend the right system for your needs. Choosing a high-quality system with an excellent brand reputation can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your maintenance costs.