If you want to save money on energy bills, consider installing a hot water system. Various options are available, including Gas, Electric, and Solar. You may also be interested in obtaining a tax rebate for installing a new system. Regardless of your choice, there are a few important factors to consider.
Unvented
Unvented hot water systems rely on main pressure and are easy to install. Unlike immersion elements, unvented systems can be placed almost anywhere in a home. They can also cope with water expansion and have inbuilt safety devices. However, because unvented systems rely on a cylinder to store the hot water, they need to be strong and corrosion-resistant. Typically, these cylinders are made of stainless steel, copper, or glass-lined mild steel. Contact a hot water systems installer Adelaide.
Gas
Gas hot water systems provide a continuous flow of hot water, eliminating the need for a water tank. These systems run on natural gas, LPG, or electricity and can be installed internally or externally. High-efficiency models can heat multiple points at the same time. These gas heaters are a great option for homes of all sizes, from single-family homes to multi-unit buildings.
These systems are available in five to seven-star energy-efficiency ratings, and some are available with water-saving features such as water-saving ring mains and pumps. They also have optional temperature control panels, recessed boxes, pipe covers, and security brackets. Some gas hot water systems can heat as many as four people.
A gas hot water system is more efficient than electric systems, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. It makes it a good option for the environment. They can also heat a 170-litre tank in around an hour. It is much faster than an electric counterpart, making them perfect for large families. However, they are also more expensive.
Gas hot water systems are also a great option if you want to have hot water all the time. However, make sure that you know when you will need it and when you can do without it. You want to save money on a system you’re not going to use. These systems are very energy-efficient and compact. Unlike electric systems, they heat water instantly.
Electric
Electric hot water systems use electricity to heat water in the cylinder. Therefore, the system should be sized for your home’s water usage and power supply. Some systems have a booster element, which reheats water in the cylinder if you run out. However, boosting an electric hot water system requires an additional electrical supply, which can lead to high energy costs.
Electric hot water systems cost the least to purchase but are the most expensive to run, particularly if you operate on a peak tariff. So instead, choose an electric hot water system with a storage tank to save money. You can also use a rooftop photovoltaic system to generate electricity and run your storage electric water heater. This way, you will use the electricity generated by your PV system for heating and reduce your electricity bills.
Electric hot water systems are available in various sizes and can be used in different parts of the home. Some are small enough to plug directly into a power outlet, while larger units are fixed into your home’s electricals. Most electric hot water systems utilise an element, usually made from copper or an Incoloy alloy to heat water. The electrical current generated by the element generates friction and heat that heats water in the tank.
Solar
Solar hot water systems use the sun’s natural rays to heat water. They can be installed in various locations, including rooftops, and there are two primary types of solar collectors. The evacuated-tube collector uses special metal tubes with fins to minimise heat loss. These collectors also use water as the heat transfer fluid, either passive or active.
The size of a solar hot water system depends on the amount of hot water a household requires and the amount of storage available. For example, a two-person household would need between ten and eight square feet of collector space and around 60-140 gallons of storage space. Larger homes would need a larger system.
Pumps
Hot water pump systems are an excellent option for homes without a dedicated hot water return loop. Installing a pump in a home with this type of water heater is relatively easy and does not require special plumbing. They come in wide different varieties, including under-sink and over-the-water-heater models.
When choosing a pump system, there are many important factors to consider. The sizing of the pump is important, as is selecting controls. Purchasing the right pump, hardware, and controls will ensure a long life. Consider the initial cost of installation and the estimated monthly water utility bill. These factors will determine the payback, generally between one to three years.
Gravity feed
If you have a hot water system that relies on gravity feed, you may be wondering what the advantages and disadvantages are. Of course, the primary advantage is energy efficiency, but there are drawbacks. For example, you may find your water pressure is low or need more hot water. One way to address these problems is to install a booster pump. This pump will help increase your water’s pressure and flow rate and reduce energy costs.
The disadvantages of gravity systems include the size and cost of piping. This type of system often requires big-diameter piping and large radiators. Also, gravity systems are slower to respond to temperature changes and are often difficult to install. In addition, gravity systems can be difficult to maintain because they require a lot of maintenance.
A major disadvantage of gravity feed for hot water systems is poor water pressure. A booster pump can be added to the system to raise the pressure, but this is an extra expense and can be noisy. It is also crucial not to connect a gravity feed system to the cold water supply at the mains, as this could cause serious injury or even death.