If your hot water system (HWS) has recently tanked it, or you’ve moved into a new house that doesn’t yet have one installed, then you’ll want to start doing some research on the different types, benefits and costs associated with each HWS. Aqua heating accounts for around 25% of the typical household’s energy bill, and with systems that rely on inefficient energy sources, that figure can rise quite substantially during the winter months. If you’re in the market for a quality hot water cylinder, make sure you read this simple, yet detailed guide to help you through the purchasing process.
Don’t get the same model again
If your previous hot water cylinder was reliable and effective, you’re probably inclined to buy the same one. However, it’s best that you avoid this, primarily because these devices are constantly evolving and becoming more energy efficient. There’s no point going back to an old model if you can save money on a newer, more current option.
Consider environmentally-friendly options
Likewise, it’s becoming more financially viable for customers to switch to “greener”, more environmentally friendly alternatives. If you are ecologically conscious, then you want to consider switching to a solar-powered HWS. Not only do they produce far less emissions (compared to an electrical system), but they are becoming more affordable as the market transitions to embracing more solar-powered models.
Don’t forget gas
Gas hot water cylinders are also an effective energy option to consider. Well, gas models are, on average, the most energy efficient. This means that your energy bills in the long-term are going to remain steady or even decrease. Having said this, start-up costs for an HWS like this can be a bit hefty. They also viewed as being environmentally sustainable and energy efficient, producing far less carbon emissions, compared to conventional electric hot water cylinders.
Size matters
When it comes to purchasing an HWS, it is important that you consider how large your system needs to be. Gauging this can be rather difficult and complex. The first thing you need to think about is how many people will rely on the system. If you live by yourself if with another person (a roommate, friend or partner), then a single 135L tank will generally suffice. This is because enough liquid can be stored in the tank to support 1-2 during the day and night.
On the other hand, if your hot water cylinder needs to support a family of four or more, then a 135L tank probably won’t get the job done. Larger tanks can hold as much as 300L, which is more than enough for larger families.
The design of your home is important
Finally, while it might not be something you associated with an HWS, the design of your home is something that you should be considering when on the market for a new hot water cylinder. For example, larger homes often suffer from pressure issues and other problems related to plumbing. It is for this reason that larger homes should be looking at the most powerful systems available. You need to be pumping aqua a long way and across multiple storeys, which can undermine the temperature consistency.
If you don’t want cold showers during those chilly early mornings in the middle of winter, consider the following strategies. Make sure your system has powerful pumps that can adequately service your home. At the same time, make sure your taps are as close to the system as possible, as this will reduce the likelihood of cold or lukewarm showers.
At the end of the day, you want the best hot water cylinders available for your home. You shouldn’t have to cripple your savings just to have hot showers!