Working on a dream new build? Finding the right hot water system is an important step.
These systems play an important role in everything from bathing to washing the dishes. Hot water systems can account for a significant portion of a household’s utility costs. Plus, you never want to be stuck without hot water when you need it.
Considering its long-term usage, it’s essential to be selective when picking a hot water system to install in your home.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know when selecting and buying a hot water system for your new home.
Types of Water Heating Systems
Knowing the different categories of hot water systems you can pick from—as well as their corresponding pros and cons—can help you make a more informed decision on selecting the best one for your new house.
Water heating systems can follow a storage or instantaneous configuration. A storage heating system heats water and stores it in a tank for later use, ensuring a consistent supply. These systems can have lower upfront costs. However, they are also often less efficient since heat loss can occur when not in use.
Instantaneous heating systems heat water on demand, eliminating the need for a tank and being much more efficient.
Hot water systems can also be categorised based on what powers them. There are different types of heating systems categorised by their power source:
- Gas hot water systems: This type of water heating system is powered by either natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). A gas burner emits a constant source of energy at the base of this water heating system. These water heating systems are fairly inexpensive to operate. However, they tend to have a fast heat loss due to low insulation.
- Electric hot water systems: This type of water heating system uses electricity as its power source. They can either be tanked or instantaneous. This system is also typically more expensive than a gas system to run. However, there are energy-efficient solutions that can be good alternatives in locations where the use of hot water is minimal. Check out this guide to find out more on how electric hot water systems work.
- Solar hot water systems: This water heating system collects and harnesses energy from the sun through specialised roof-mounted collectors and solar panels. This energy transfers to an insulated storage tank for water, which heats the water up. This is a sustainable alternative to standard systems and costs less to operate monthly. However, set-up costs tend to be higher.
- Heat pump hot water systems: A heat pump extracts ambient warmth from the air and transfers that heat to the water tank. They are fairly inexpensive and sustainable, boasting the least amount of greenhouse gas emissions among the other hot water systems on the list. They are great alternatives in places that don’t catch a lot of sun. However, they can contribute to noise pollution in the house.
These water systems can all effectively heat and distribute water throughout a standard household. But if you have more specific needs, like a lower budget, a commitment to sustainability or a need for significant amounts of hot water, some options may suit you better than others.
What to Consider When Selecting a Hot Water System
Here are the various considerations you should bear in mind when choosing a hot water system for your new house.
1. Upfront Budget and Running Costs
The first and arguably most important consideration to make is the cost of the hot water system.
Electric hot water systems are generally cheaper to buy and install, but they can cost more money over time than some alternatives.
In contrast, solar or heat pump systems have higher initial costs but offer significant savings on energy expenses in the long run.
Consider your personal financial situation to determine which option is more feasible for your financial situation and your house.
2. House Space and Layout
Some homes are big and can hold both outdoor and indoor tanks with a few renovations. Other homes may not be as blessed in size, limiting tank placement options.
If you have little space to work within your kitchen or bathroom, you may opt for convenient tankless and instant water heating systems. You may also consider avoiding heat pumps to avoid constant loud sounds.
3. Hot Water Recovery Time
If replenishing hot water quickly is non-negotiable, then you should opt for a tankless, instantaneous hot water system. These systems quickly deliver hot water in an endless supply.
Gas-powered heating systems also offer quick hot water, making them a good choice if experiencing no downtime is a priority for you.
4. Environmental Impact
Do you care deeply about preserving the Earth’s finite resources? Do you want to adopt a lifestyle that doesn’t rely too heavily on non-renewable energy sources?
If your answer is yes, then you may look into the more sustainable and energy-efficient options. In particular, solar and heat pump systems are all viable water heating systems that have a reduced impact on the environment.
If you’d prefer to stick with an electric system, instantaneous systems are a good option as heat loss is not a factor in their use.
While these sustainable options often cost more to set up upfront, they come with the perk of being good for the environment. They also don’t cost as much as other options to maintain and run, making them excellent choices if you have enough capital now and want to earn net savings in the future.
There are even government initiatives in place which financially incentivise home owners to select an eco-friendly solution.
5. Installation Complexity
Some hot water systems are easy and fairly straightforward to install. For instance, gas and electrical heating systems can be quite simple to install.
Some alternatives like solar systems may take more money or effort to set up. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of installing something you’re not familiar with, then you can opt for the easier-to-install gas and electrical hot water systems.
Keep these various factors in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect hot water system for your home.
