With Perth’s variable subtropical climate of hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, choosing the right hot water system requires careful consideration of a household’s unique needs and usage patterns. The optimal system should reliably deliver sufficient hot water for all residents while keeping energy bills affordable over both the short and long term. Homeowners must weigh upfront purchase and installation costs against projected savings on ongoing electricity, gas or renewable energy consumption when making their selection.
On the Market: Comparing Perth’s Hot Water System Options
Solar Hot Water Systems
Leveraging Perth’s abundant yearly sunlight, solar hot water systems offer an environmentally-friendly solution that can lead to massive long-term savings on bills. Thermosiphon or pumped systems feature roof-mounted solar collectors/panels that harness the sun’s thermal energy to heat water stored in an insulated ground-level or rooftop tank. Though solar hot water systems incur higher initial installation costs, they can slash water heating bills by up to 60% thanks to free renewable solar energy. They’re an ideal option for households committed to shrinking their carbon footprint.
Gas Storage and Instantaneous Hot Water Systems
Natural gas and LPG hot water system Perth are valued for their impressive efficiency of around 75-90% and rapid water heating capabilities from powerful burners. Storage systems heat and store hot water in insulated tanks for on-demand use. Though initial install costs are lower, ongoing gas bills are incurred. Instantaneous systems featuring continuous flow heat water on demand, saving space without a tank but installation may be pricier. Gas systems suit larger households with high demand.
Electric Storage and Instantaneous Hot Water Systems
Electric hot water comprises around 37% of household energy bills nationally, making efficiency paramount. Electric systems either use storage tanks or instant heaters. Storage tanks feature electric heating elements that automatically heat water overnight using off-peak tariffs. Instant models heat as needed but may lack compatibility with solar/PV systems. While electric systems have lower install costs than solar or gas, heating elements make them the least efficient option.
Hybrid Hot Water Systems
Hybrid systems combine the strengths of fuel sources like solar and gas or electric. Linked to both solar collectors and an LPG or electric booster, they maximize renewable solar thermal energy for the bulk of heating but use gas or electric to “top up” the tank on overcast days or during peak winter usage periods. Though upfront system costs run higher, hybrid systems optimize free solar gain.
Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Heat pumps extract ambient thermal energy from air to heat refrigerant gas which the system then uses to heat water. Considerably more efficient than electrical element water heating, they can be linked to PV panels to run on renewable solar electricity. Though heat pumps have a steep install price, the savings often offset this over time.
Helpful Tips for Selecting the Optimal System
When selecting a hot water system in Perth, key points for homeowners to consider include:
- Usage Patterns – Track your household’s hot water usage over a typical week to determine daily and peak demand before deciding on the right system capacity.
- Climate Conditions – Carefully factor in Perth’s seasonal fluctuations in solar exposure when weighing up solar thermal and PV systems.
- Outdoor Space – Ensure you have adequate roof or ground space for solar collectors or heat pump equipment as required.
- Rebates & Incentives – Research current government rebates or subsidies when pricing systems to maximize your savings.
- Personalized Professional Consultations – Reputable suppliers provide tailored quotes and advice addressing your household’s unique specifications.
Best Practice Installation for Perth Hot Water Systems
Once homeowners select the optimal hot water system Perth for their needs, turning attention to the installation phase is critical. Improper installation can wholly undermine system efficiency and function, void warranties, present safety hazards and cause costly repairs down the track. Employing licensed technicians ensures compliance with regulations and standards. Key considerations include:
System Location
- Solar hot water systems require north-facing placement without shading for maximum solar gain.
- Gas storage systems require adequate outdoor ventilation per standards.
- All systems should install as close as possible to bathrooms, kitchens and laundry for minimal pipe heat losses.
Water Connections
- Cold inlet and hot water outlet connections must isolate and seal completely without leakage or faults.
- Mixing valves must be precision-adjusted to 50 degrees Celsius to prevent scalding risks.
- Pressure limiting valves should install if water pressure exceeds 500 kPa along with expansion control valves on closed water systems.
Gas & Electrical
- Only licensed professionals should undertake specialized gas fitting and electrical work which must strictly meet all Australian standards.
- Isolating valves should be included for ease of maintenance.
- Lightning protection may be advisable for solar thermal systems.
Paperwork & Compliance
- All rebates, certificates, approvals and required paperwork should be completed by the installer to guarantee compliance.
Maintenance Tips for Peak Efficiency
Ongoing system maintenance is vital for optimal performance, safety and longevity. Here are some key efficiency tips:
- Schedule electric or solar electric hot water heating to occur overnight using off-peak tariffs
- Add water-saving showerheads and tap aerators to reduce wasted hot water
- Insulate exposed piping to minimize heat losses in transit
- Limit showers to 4 minutes with mild temperatures
- Immediately repair any leaking taps, valves or pipes
- Inspect condition and service relief valves annually as a safety measure
- Check sacrificial anodes and replace corroded rods in storage tanks to prevent rust
- Clear dust buildup on solar collectors over summer or during bushfire smoke events
- Have professionals service the system as per the manufacturer’s recommendations
By selecting the correctly sized and most suitable system for your household and ensuring certified installers carry out professional fitting and finishing that meets all codes, Perth homeowners can enjoy endless hot water system for all members of the family while maximizing savings on bills over the years ahead. Consult reputable suppliers for unbiased, tailored advice and your optimal system should serve you efficiently for over a decade while assisting the environment.