How to Choose the Right Hot Water System for Your Family

  • By Hot Water Boss

Published: Friday, September 6, 2024

Choosing the right hot water system isn’t just about picking the biggest tank or the cheapest option - it’s about finding the perfect match for your household’s needs, lifestyle, and budget. If you’re looking at a hot water system replacement in Jimboomba or the surrounding areas, this guide will help you make the right choice.

 

At Hot Water Boss, we’ve been servicing Jimboomba and South-East Queensland for over a decade. While many homeowners simply replace their old system with the same size unit, which sometimes works, it’s not always the most efficient option. The best way to ensure you’re getting the right hot water system is to evaluate your household’s usage and habits.

1. Consider Your Household Size

The number of people in your home is the biggest factor in choosing the right hot water system size:

1–2 people: A small storage tank or continuous flow (instantaneous) system may be enough.

3–4 people: A medium-sized tank or high-capacity continuous flow system is usually best.

5+ people: A large tank may be needed to keep up with demand.

 

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to factor in regular guests or teenagers with long shower habits!

2. Understand Your Water Usage Habits

Think about how your family uses hot water:

- Do you all shower at the same time in the morning?

- Do you run frequent baths?

- Do you use a dishwasher or washing machine daily?

 

High-usage households: Consider systems with faster recovery times or higher flow rates.

Low-usage households: A smaller system may be more cost-effective and energy-efficient.

3. Choose Your Energy Source

Your energy options will influence which hot water system you can install:

Electric Hot Water Systems - Easy to install and affordable upfront, but can be more expensive to run long-term.

Gas Hot Water Systems - Ideal for continuous flow systems and cost-effective if you have natural gas connected.

Solar Hot Water Systems - Great long-term savings and eco-friendly, but need more upfront investment and roof space.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems - Energy-efficient and reliable, perfect for households wanting to reduce their carbon footprint.

4. Decide Between Storage or Continuous Flow

Storage Tank Systems: Heat water and store it for later use. Best for households with steady demand.

Continuous Flow (Instantaneous) Systems: Heat water only when needed. More energy-efficient and never runs out.

5. Think About Installation Requirements

Some systems require more planning. A licensed plumber can help you assess:

- Access to gas or solar exposure

- Unit placement (close to kitchen/bathroom for efficiency)

- Noise restrictions (especially for heat pumps)

- Available space for storage tanks

6. Factor in Running Costs and Efficiency

Don’t just look at the purchase price. Long-term costs matter too. Consider:

- Energy efficiency ratings

- Rebates or government incentives (especially for solar and heat pumps)

- Lifespan and expected maintenance costs

7. And Remember...Always Use a Licensed Plumber

Installing a hot water system must be done by a licensed plumber, especially for systems involving gas or electricity. An expert installer ensures:

- Compliance with Australian standards and local laws

- Warranty protection

- Safe and efficient performance

Need Help Choosing the Right Hot Water System?

Still unsure which system is best for your family? That’s where we come in! At Hot Water Boss, we specialise in hot water system installation and replacement in Jimboomba and surrounding areas. We’ll assess your home, water usage, and budget to recommend the perfect system -  whether it’s electric, gas, solar, or a heat pump.

 

👉 Explore our range of Hot Water Systems or request a free online quote today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What size hot water system do I need?

While the size of the hot water system will more than likely vary depending on your specific needs, the average 4-person Australian home will need at least a 160 litre tank for a continuous electric system, or a 250-315 litre off-peak system. If you’re in the market for a gas tank, a 4-person house averages a 170 litre tank. 270-315 litre tank should be sufficient for heat-pump users. 

Why is the right size hot water system so important?

If your hot water heater is too small for your needs, you will find yourself continually run out of water. On the other hand, if your hot water system is too large for your needs, you are going to spend an unnecessary amount of energy (and therefore money) heating it. This is because your hot water system will keep maintaining the heat of your water, even when you are not using it.

Can I install the system myself?

You will need a licensed plumber to install your new hot water system.

I'm not in SEQLD - how do I choose a plumber?

It's important to ensure you choose the right plumber to install your hot water system. The last thing you want is a non compliant install on your brand new hot water system, which could shorten the life of the new hot water system and even void the warranty. We are often asked if a customer can install a hot water system...in all honesty the risks aren't worth it - and it's illegal! Best to call a licensed plumber to ensure it's done right.

How do I calculate my hot water usage?

The first step to take in choosing a new hot water system is to calculate the hot water usage in your home. The amount of hot water each household uses will vary depending on lifestyle, appliances, and water fixtures throughout the house. 

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