Hot Water Systems Cairns

Recognising the global need to minimise the carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency, it is now so very important to make sure we choose the right hot water systems. When purchasing your new hot water systems seek professional advice.  Engage a licenced hot water system expert tradesperson/consultant to provide you with information and options on what type of hot water system application is best suited for your hot water requirements.​

Whatever hot water system you prefer, whether a gas hot water system or a solar hot water system, it is most important to make sure that you have a licenced plumber and gas fitter tradesperson to do the hot water system installation in your home or at work. Don’t waste your money on an expensive, top quality hot water system if you engage a less than average tradesperson to do the installation services.

Types Of Hot Water Systems

​Some popular Hot Water Systems available:

1.Gas Boosted Solar Hot Water Systems

These solar hot water systems are more environmentally friendly. 

Pros

• Free energy from the sun
• Reduces gas bills 
• Government incentives may apply for these energy saving solar hot water systems
• Hot water never runs out

Cons

• High installation cost
• Tank takes up space 
• These solar hot water systems are not efficient in winter / or in cold climates
• Solar panels must be installed north facing

2.Continuous /Instantaneous Flow Hot Water System

Pros

• Space saver 
• This hot water system only heats water as you require, not wasting energy (lower running costs)
• Controllers are optional allowing accurate delivery temperature of hot water
• Hydro-electric gas hot water units are available meaning you do not require a power supply for ignition of burner. (good for remote areas)
• 6 star energy efficient system models available

Cons

• Upgrades to existing gas supply may be required
• 1 to 2 litres of water is wasted on initial delivery of heated water
• No mains pressure at hot water taps, (HWU will reduce flow of water through pipe system.)
• Takes longer to deliver hot water than a storage water heater system

3. Gas Storage Hot Water System

Pros

• Up front purchase costs are usually lower than other units depending on the star rating (energy consumption)
• Lower installation costs (may not have to upgrade gas line)
• Delivers hot water immediately
• 6 star energy efficient models available
• ​Delivery of controlled hot water at set temperatures, may not require as many service valves.

Cons

• Tank size takes up space
• Heat loss from tank whether water is being used or not, (meaning temperature loss will cause thermostat to sense temperature drop in tank, which causes burners to ignite to reheat water in tank)
• Not as energy efficient as a gas boosted solar or instantaneous hot water unit

4.Solar Boosted electric & gas Hot Water 

Pros

• Utilises free solar energy  (sunlight)
• Up to 70% reduced power consumption than an electric HWU during the peak summer months
• Good for areas with warm climate and lots of sunlight
• Government incentives may apply 
• Electric booster element or gas booster ignition

Cons

• High installation cost upfront
• Less efficient in cold climates, cloudy and rainy weather
• Panels must be north facing 

5 Refrigeration & Heat Pump Systems

Pros

• Can be connected to off peak tariffs
• Uses similar connections (electrical & water) as a normal electric HWU 
• Environmentally friendly (energy efficient)

Cons

• Can be noisy when operational
• Suited to warm climates 
• Size limits places to position hot water unit

6.Electric Hot Water Unit

Pros

• Electric unit is easy to install 
• Most cost beneficial unit to purchase for installation, (not running cost)
• Are able to be put on off peak electrical tariffs

Cons

• Highest CO2 emissions 
• ​Require a lot of service valves which require regular attention. 

For all your hot water system needs and gas fitting services, please contact us here at Plumbnorth Hot Water Cairns & Gas Fitting Cairns.