How to Choose the Best Hot Water System?

Today, we cannot imagine our homes without hot water. A hot water system (HWS) is complex to install and you will need help from a licensed plumber. It is not as simple as it seems because you must deal with a tank, tubing cuts, fittings, and more.

Before you start looking for the best deal heater systems, you should have a general checklist for your buying guide.

Things that You Should Check Before Buying HWS

It could be a good idea to consult with a hot water system provider before buying HWS.  A few things you have to keep in mind:

• Is your space available for the setup? You must understand that this energy system requires enough space to be installed. Otherwise, you must look for a smaller version that suits your home space. Furthermore, it depends on the heating system on where to place it in your home. For example, if you have a wide ground level area, the electric types may suit your home. On the other hand, if you prefer a solar-powered system, then it depends on what kind of roof does your home has.
• Does installing an HWS suit your budget? Ask your family members first if they agree to have this device in your home. You also need to consider who will pay for it. Furthermore, this water heating system can last long for a lifetime depending on its quality and type. It means to say that it may help you save in the long run when it comes to energy consumption.
• Is there an energy provider near your local area? Before you install a heating system, you must check if there are energy providers available to your location. For instance, if the device uses gas or fuel, you must search a provider around your area.

Types of Hot Water System

After checking on the space, use, and budget, you may proceed with the device itself. What kind of heater would you like for your home? Generally, there are two types to choose from.

1) Storage Tank Systems

It is a conventional heater that preserves the water in a storage unit to be used throughout the day. Some of its other specific types include solar and conventional storage water heaters.

Pros

• It is affordable that comes at great deal price
• No further charges for installation, repairs, and maintenance

Cons

• It may cool down the temperature of the water stored in unit
• The device and storage unit consume larger space
• Storage units have a shorter life span and these containers may be replaced more often such as mid-steel tanks due to corrosion. Most units have a warranty of around 5 to 10 years.
• If you prefer a stainless-steel storage, it is highly expensive than the ordinary units.

2) Continuous or Instantaneous Flow Systems

As the name suggests, this heating device instantly produces hot water that can be used at any time of the day. What matters most is the flow rate of this device. It has also some specific types namely Demand-Type or Tankless, Indirect, and Tankless Coil water systems.

Pros

• It is easy to run
• Promotes energy efficiency
• It occupies lesser space

Cons

• Entails expensive installation charges
• You can only use this device simultaneously. Meaning to say, you may only do one chore at a time.

Aside from the devices, some types use geothermal energy, fuel oil, gas, electricity, heat pump, and eco-smart features.

Other Heating System Types

1. Electric

Generally, a family household needs at least 125 to 160 Litre tank for continuous use while 250 to 315 Litres for off-peak. If you will be using an electric type, you should be aware of its benefits and downsides.

Pros

• It is relatively cheaper to install
• Takes only a few hours to set up
• Inexpensive during off-peak electricity seasons
• Available to use for indoors and outdoors

Cons

• Since it used electricity, it is expensive for a continuous use cycle.
• Increases your electric bill due to frequent use
• Cannot be able to use during blackouts

2. Solar-powered

If you opt for a solar HWS, you should keep in mind to get a larger tank that can hold up 300 to 360 litres. Since the heating depends on the sunlight, it would be better to save a lot of water, especially during the rainy and winter seasons.

Pros

• It has only a low running cost
• Incentives and government rebates may help offset the cost

Cons

• When it comes to installation, it is very expensive.
• It also takes a long time setting up
• You need to look for a wide location to install the solar panels
• Limited use during rainy and winter seasons

3. Gas Types

Natural gas is also a good alternative to solar-powered and electric types. It is also cheaper to use. A family household normally needs around 130 to 170 Litres of water for daily use.

Pros

• Just like the instantaneous flow system, this device can also turn the water into hot instantly and as needed.
• Takes only a few hours of installation
• An energy-efficient HWS

Cons

• Fluctuation in prices of the gas due to economic reasons
• Usually being installed outdoors unless you have a flue to set it up indoors
• Use LPG as an alternative but it comes with a higher cost

4. Heat Pump

Technically speaking, this device uses heat from the air to warm the water in the storage unit. It somehow works the same principle as refrigerators and air conditioners. You will need to supply at least 270 to 315 litres of water for everyday use.

Pros

• Energy-efficient than electric and gas
• Takes only a few hours to install
• Receive incentives or government rebates to offset the cost

Cons

• It needs to be installed outside due to its noisy compressor and a need for a well-ventilated area.

Enjoy your hot bath in cold winter days!