The sort of hot water system you need depends on whether you have a gas, electric, or solar water service.
The price of hot water systems in Australia depends on several factors such as the capacity of the water cylinder, the energy rating and source, the maker's labour warranty conditions, plus installation requirements. Below are selected average prices for a 135-litre hot water heater unit.
Type of system | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
135 Litre External Gas Hot Water System Installed | $1,500 |
135 Litre Natural Gas | $1,000 |
Outdoor Gas 135L | $1,000 to $2,000 |
Domestic non-commercial installations are typically rated in litres per minute (L/min). A 70L/min system is suitable for a single person or couple, while families may require 135L/min or higher.
A larger house with multiple bathrooms may have a 300L system installed, which represents the upper end of what is currently available on the market.
You may have to consider an energy-efficient replacement option at least every 10-15 years after that to ensure the safety and efficiency of your system.
Most old water heater systems can present a number of dangers, including faulty installation or design, corroded and leaky tanks and simply not being big enough. If you want less waiting time for water to heat and higher mains pressure from multiple taps at the same time, which your current water heater is not providing, it may be time to replace it.The size of your hot water system is dependent on the number of people in your household, the water usage habits of each person, and the per hour capacity of the hot water heater. If you have a large home with maybe 5 people and multiple bathrooms, you may need something as big as a 300-litre system. A family of 3 would need a hot water system sized around 125-135 litres, while a single person would only need around 70 litres.
Installation costs for a 135-litre external gas hot water system will vary depending on the installer you choose, but you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,000 for a professionally installed system. This price includes the cost of the cylinder, labour, all required fittings, fixtures, and components necessary for domestic non-commercial units. If you install a solar-powered water heater system, you may also need to purchase a solar collector. Installing the water heater may cost more if removal and disposal of the existing unit are necessary.
The most energy-efficient hot water system on the market and also most widely used by customers is the heat pump. A heat pump takes heat from the surrounding air and transfers it into the water, making it an excellent option for those who want to save on their energy or gas bills. A solar hot water model is another green energy option. They are popular among environmentally conscious consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint by producing green energy in the home. They are also suitable for areas with sunshine most of the days in a year.
For most households, the cheapest option is an electric-powered model that uses a storage tank for its hot water supply. Electric models are generally affordable and don't require expensive insulation or plumbing changes to install - they can be easily added to existing systems with little fuss. However, external propane or natural gas-powered system may be the next best choice for some households due to its affordability. Modern natural gas water heater units use less gas. They cost between $1,000 and $2,000 to have installed, which represents excellent value when considering that they can last for up to 20 years. It is a good idea to install a modern 4 Star energy efficiency rated hot water heater. However, consider the availability of other components the unit may require over its life and manufacturer's warranty conditions.
These types of systems typically use either flat plate or evacuated tube collectors. While both technologies are effective, evacuated tube collectors tend to perform better than flat plate collectors during cold weather, when people tend to use the hottest water in their homes. However, these types of systems can be expensive if you install them yourself - expect to pay between $3,500 and $7,000 for a professionally installed, solar-powered hot water system. Heat pumps are also a good idea. They take heat from the surrounding air and inject it into the water, making them more efficient than traditional gas or electric hot water units.
The cylinder may corrode and leak, potentially causing extensive damage to your home. Gas leaks are also a risk with older systems, as faulty installation or age-related damage can lead to dangerous levels of gas build-up in your home. Finally, an inefficient or outdated system can result in high energy bills. It's important to keep an eye on your system's age and replace it when necessary. Looking for a hot water system that is both energy-efficient and affordable? Consider external propane or natural gas-powered model. These systems use less gas and typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000 to have installed, representing excellent value when considering that they can last for up to 20 years.
A hot water system can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the materials used and its general maintenance. High-end stainless steel tanks typically last longer than plastic models because they are more durable. However, a poorly installed system or one that has been damaged due to poor plumbing works or by extreme weather could potentially fail in just a few years.
For more information on hot water systems, take a look at energy.gov.au.