Electric Hot Water System in Perth: Choosing and Installing One
An electric hot water system is one of the most common ways Perth homes heat their water, and choosing and installing the right one affects both comfort and running costs. An electric hot water system needs proper wiring and often an off-peak circuit. Here is what to know before you buy or replace one.
Types of electric hot water
There is more than one kind of electric hot water system. A traditional storage system heats and stores water in a tank, a continuous or instantaneous unit heats on demand, and a heat pump uses efficient technology to heat water for a fraction of the running cost. Each suits different homes and budgets.
6 things to know about an electric hot water system
- Storage, continuous, or heat pump types
- Tank size should match your household
- Off-peak wiring can cut running costs
- Heat pumps are far more efficient to run
- The circuit and wiring must suit the system
- Installation involves licensed electrical work
Off-peak and running costs
A big factor with an electric hot water system is running cost, and off-peak wiring helps. A storage system on a controlled, off-peak tariff heats water overnight when power is cheaper. An electrician sets up the right circuit for this, which can noticeably reduce what your hot water costs to run over the year.
Heat pumps
A heat pump electric hot water system is the most efficient option, using far less power than a standard element to heat the same water. It costs more upfront but can dramatically cut running costs, especially paired with solar. For many Perth homes, it is the most economical hot water choice over time.
Sizing it right
Getting the size right matters: too small and you run out of hot water, too big and you pay to heat water you do not use. The right electric hot water system is sized to your household and how you use hot water. An installer helps match the capacity to your needs.
Replacing an old system
Hot water systems usually fail with little warning, so it pays to think ahead. Replacing an ageing electric hot water system before it dies avoids cold-shower emergencies, and lets you choose a more efficient unit calmly rather than rushing. It is also a chance to check the wiring and circuit are sound.
Wiring and the switchboard
An electric hot water system draws a significant load, so the circuit and switchboard must suit it, particularly for an off-peak or a new heat pump setup. An electrician makes sure the wiring, circuit and board are right, so the system runs safely and on the cheapest available power.
Solar and hot water
Hot water is a great use for rooftop solar, since heating water is energy-hungry. A heat pump or a timed storage system can run largely on solar during the day, cutting bills further. An electrician can set the system to make the most of your solar generation.
Gas vs electric
Some homes switch between gas and electric hot water depending on supply and running costs. Where gas is not available or a heat pump makes sense, electric can be the better long-term choice. It is worth weighing the options for your home before replacing a failed unit.
Why use a licensed electrician
The electrical side of an electric hot water system, the circuit, off-peak wiring and connection, is licensed work. A licensed electrician wires and connects it safely and correctly, alongside the plumbing. The state’s Building and Energy sets the standards involved.
Installing or replacing an electric hot water system in Perth?
ACS Electrical handles the electrical side across the metro. Explore our switchboard upgrades service, electrical maintenance and repairs service or power point installation service. Call 0419 967 838.
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