Choosing the Best Hot Water System for Your Property: A Homeowner's Guide
Are you looking to replace or install a new hot water cylinder but not sure where to start? Don't worry, Garcia Plumbing and Gas is here to help. This guide will break down everything you need to know in easy-to-understand terms, so you can make the best choice for your home.
Assess Your Needs
The first step is to figure out how much hot water your household uses. Think about how many people are in your home, how many baths or showers you have, and when you use the most hot water. This will help you decide the size of water heater you need.
Do you have space inside for a water heater or would you prefer to save space and install something outside.
Choosing Between Types of Water Heaters
Hot water heaters come in a range of shapes and sizes. Here's what you need to know:
Low-Pressure Cylinders: are more affordable options that need a cold water tank, typically placed in the attic. They use gravity to circulate water throughout the home, which means they require additional space for the extra tank. This option is usually recommended if you already have a low pressure cylinder in place and are satisfied with its pressure and performance.
Mains pressure cylinders: eliminate the need for a separate tank, offering a space-saving solution for your home. They are designed to deliver water at a higher pressure, making them an ideal choice for households with multiple bathrooms. While they may come with a higher price tag and are a bit more complex to install, they ensure a consistent, robust water pressure throughout the entire home.
Gas hot water cylinders: are typically installed as mains pressure cylinders and are known for their faster recovery (heating) time compared to electric units. These systems require a flue or need to be installed outside, making the location a crucial factor to consider when selecting this option.
Continuous flow water heater: also known as a tankless or on-demand water heater, heats water directly without the need for a storage tank. It operates by heating water only when needed, eliminating standby energy losses and saving space due to its compact size. In New Zealand, most people refer to these as "infinity" water heaters, due to Rinnai infinity being the dominant supplier of these unit.
Heat pump water heaters are a highly efficient alternative to traditional models, offering significant energy savings, environmental benefits, and potential incentives despite their higher initial cost and specific installation requirements.These heat pumps are much more efficient than traditional electric water heaters, using up to 4.5 times less energy to heat water.
Energy Source Matters
You also need to consider how your hot water cylinder will be heated:
Electric Cylinders: Easy to install and can fit almost anywhere, but running them can get pricey.
Gas Cylinders: If you have gas in your home, these can be cheaper to run than electric ones and are great for reducing your energy bills.
Heat pump Cylinders: If you're considering the environment and long-term savings, these will lower your usage and can cut costs.
Installation Space
When choosing a location for your water heating system, consider specific requirements for each type. For instance, gas hot water cylinders need ventilation and heat pump water heaters require efficient heat exchange. Continuous flow water heaters offer more flexibility in placement but still need access to gas or electrical connections. Each option has its own installation considerations, making location selection crucial for optimal performance.
Regular Checks and Durability
No matter which system you choose, keeping it in good shape is key.
We suggest having your systemchecked once a year to keep it running smoothly. A cylinder made from the correct materials for your water quality can also extend the life of your system.
Your Next Steps
There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the right hot water system. It involves looking at your household needs, the space you have, and how much you want to spend on energy.
At Garcia Plumbing and Gas, we offer a variety of quality options and can guide you through selecting and installing the ideal one for your home. Contact us today to make sure you always have plenty of hot, running water when you need it.