Frequently asked questions
I would like to get a gas hot water system, what type should I get?
There are two different types of gas water systems – storage water heaters and continuous flow (instantaneous) water heaters. The type and size of system you need depends on how many people live in the house and their water usage (dishwashers, washing machines, spas etc).
Continuous flow systems heat water as it is required. These systems are more suitable for smaller households with lower hot water usage, as they heat only what they need, and don’t waste energy heating up and storing water that isn’t used.
Storage systems heat water and store it in the tank for use throughout the day. These are suitable for households with higher hot water usage.
Note that a maximum number of outlets (taps) can be used with a continuous flow system as they deliver hot water at a specific flow rate. Storage systems are sized according to the maximum of people they can serve.
Make sure you purchase a system with a high energy star rating. This will ensure you get model that is energy efficient, which will keep your gas bill as low as possible.
NSW Government is currently offering rebates to households to switch from electric to gas hot water.
Is solar hot water cost effective?
Solar hot water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install, however they are the cheapest to run (especially if the system is gas-boosted).
The system can pay itself in approximately 5-10 years depending on your household’s hot water consumption.
The NSW and Federal Government are currently offering rebates to households to switch from electric to solar hot water. Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are offered where an older solar hot water system is replaced with a more efficient model in an existing building. RECs are usually deducted from the purchase price of the system by suppliers.
What is the best position on the roof for a solar hot water system?
Solar water heating panels should be located on a north facing section of the roof, at an angle of around 35°.
Angles as low as 15° may be acceptable, but winter performance of the system will be reduced. Adding another collector panel can compensate for this.
The panels should be located where they will not be shaded anytime of the year. The storage cylinder should ideally be located close to the main hot water outlets (i.e. in the kitchen and bathroom).