Electric water heaters are one of the most reliable types of hot water system.
By installing an electric water heating system, you may be able to reduce or completely remove your gas or LPG bills as well as start saving electricity from your hot water usage. Consider using your electric heater with off peak electricity to further cut down on the running costs.
Electric water heaters from major brands range in price and installation costs from around $200 to $1,000. Make sure you shop around and compare hot water prices and government rebates offered to find the best deal.
Type of heater | Estimated price |
|---|---|
50 Litre Electric Water Heater supply and install | $800 |
50 Litre Electric Hot Water Heater with plug supply and install | $850 |
Stainless Steel 125 Litre Water Heater | $1,300 |
250 Litre Twin Element Electric Water Heater | $1,700 |
400 Litre Twin Element Electric Hot Water heater | $2,200 |
The most efficient electric hot water system is the heat pump type. It uses around one-third of the energy of an electric storage system. The drawback of a heat pump system is that it is not as cheap as other types of electric storage systems. It may also be less efficient in colder climates.
More efficient than natural gas or LPG water heaters with a better continuous flow rate.
You can purchase the right hot water system of almost any size to fit your needs.
Unlike a gas or LPG heater, electric water heaters don't need a tank.
They are relatively easy to install.
Electric water heaters can be more expensive to buy than gas or LPG.
If there is a power outage, you will not have hot running water.
They are considered more efficient than gas or LPG hot water systems. They do not require a storage tank, which means that they can save space in your home.
The most efficient types of electric hot water system are heat pumps. Heat pumps use around a third less energy than an electric storage system, so it's worth considering if you prefer the idea of an electric hot water system but don't want to increase your electricity bills and energy costs by much.Similar to an air conditioner, this hot water system works by transferring heat into the tank to heat water. If installed outdoors, this type of water heating system is best for warmer climates and for colder climates, it is better to have your water system installed indoors.
There are many different types of hot water system, including the below.
Electric storage (immersion) systems
Continuous flow
Gas hot water
Heat pump
Solar hot water
The best hot water system to run within a friendly budget is a solar hot water system. However, it will probably take years before you begin saving money with a solar system because its installation costs and price are significantly higher than other water system prices. These types of hot water systems should be considered if you like the idea of using a renewable energy source in your home, rather than your primary gas or electric source of hot running water.
Electric water systems typically are one of the most reliable hot water systems amongst other hot water system types as they come with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary depending on the quality of the unit and upkeep It's important to regularly have a hot water service inspect and check your electric heater for leaks and corrosion and to flush the system at least once a year.
An electric water system can be installed in as little as a few hours. However, if you are getting a heat pump system, it may take a little longer as the installation is more complex. It's best to hire a qualified electrician to install your hot water system to ensure that it is done properly and safely. The installation should cost around $500. However, if you are replacing your old system with the same type of a new hot water system, this price can be significantly less.
If your electric water heater breaks down, you will need to call an electrician or a hot water service to fix it. Depending on the problem, it may be cheaper to replace the entire system. It's important to have a backup plan in case of a breakdown, such as having an immersion heater or gas hot water system installed.