Choosing the right instant hot water system for your home can be challenging. To make your decision easier, we’ve created this handy guide comparing benefits, costs, and factors to consider.
If you need more help, the friendly experts at My Home Plumbing can advise you on the best instant hot water system for your household’s needs.
What Are Instant Hot Water Systems
Instant hot water systems (also called instantaneous or continuous flow) provide hot water when needed. In contrast, hot water storage systems require refiling and reheating as water is consumed.
Instant hot water systems are convenient for heating water, eliminating standby energy losses associated with storage systems. This makes them ideal if you care about energy efficiency—not to mention the significant benefit of never running out of hot water!
How Instant Hot Water Systems Work
Instant gas or electric hot water systems operate by heating water as needed. When a hot water tap is turned on in the home, cold water moves through a pipe into the heating unit. Depending on the energy source of your instant hot water system, a gas burner or an electric element heats the water, delivering a continuous hot water supply.
This on-demand heating capability ensures you never run out of hot water, making these systems ideal for households with high hot water needs.
Types of Instant Hot Water Systems
Instantaneous electric hot water systems or instant gas hot water systems are the two main types of instant hot water systems for residential homes. Gas systems heat the water using natural gas or LPG, while electric systems rely on electrical elements, which may include renewable energy sources such as solar.
While gas vs electric hot water can have unique benefits, both instant hot water systems have lower running costs than traditional storage tank systems and are more energy efficient.
Benefits of Gas Instant Hot Water Systems
The main benefits of gas instant hot water systems are high performance, cost savings over time and a lower environmental impact:
Efficiency and Performance
Instant gas hot water systems are known for their high efficiency and performance. They can heat water quickly, with a high flow rate, providing a steady supply to multiple taps even during peak usage. This quick heating capability benefits larger households or homes with a high demand for hot water.
Cost Savings
Gas systems can offer significant cost savings over time. Natural gas is often cheaper than electricity, and gas systems have lower operating costs. This means there are cost savings to be made on energy bills, particularly for households with high hot water usage.
Environmental Impact
Instant gas hot water systems are more environmentally friendly compared to traditional storage water heaters. Gas systems emit fewer greenhouse gases and because instant hot water systems are more energy-efficient, they’ll help reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
Benefits of Electric Instant Hot Water Systems
Electric instant hot water systems also offer advantages, making them a viable alternative for many homeowners. Benefits of electric instant hot water systems include simpler installation and maintenance, energy efficiency and safety:
Installation and Maintenance
Electric instant hot water systems are generally easier to install and require less maintenance than gas hot water systems. They do not need venting or a flue (a special pipe that disperses carbon monoxide outside) installed, simplifying the installation process and reducing associated costs. Additionally, electric systems have fewer components that can wear out, leading to lower maintenance requirements.
Safety Considerations
Electric instant hot water systems offer safety benefits over gas hot water systems due to the absence of combustion gases and the need for venting or installing a flue. They remove the risk of potential gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, keeping your home and family members safer.
Comparing Costs: Gas vs Electric
When choosing between gas and electric instant hot water systems, there are several cost factors to consider:
Initial Installation Costs
The upfront costs of installing an instant gas or electric hot water system can vary. Gas systems are typically more expensive and have higher installation costs due to the need for ventilation and gas line connections. In contrast, electric systems are cheaper to install due to the less complicated installation process.
Running Costs
The ongoing running costs for an instant electric or gas hot water system depend on energy prices and usage patterns in your home. Gas systems generally have lower running costs due to the lower natural gas price than electricity.
Long-Term Savings
Long-term savings on gas vs. electric instant hot water systems depend on various factors, including energy prices, efficiency, and household hot water demand. Gas systems may offer more significant savings for larger households with high hot water usage.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Gas and Electric
Some other factors that may influence your choice between gas and electric instant hot water systems include:
Household Hot Water Demand
Assess your household’s hot water demands to determine the best instant hot water system for your home. Larger households with high hot water usage will benefit more from the high performance of a gas-powered instant hot water system. Alternatively, smaller households with lower demand might find an electric system more suitable and economical.
Local Climate and Energy Prices
Local climate and energy prices can also impact your choice of instant hot water system. Gas systems may be more efficient and cost-effective in colder climates, while electric systems can be advantageous in areas with lower electricity rates or limited gas availability.
Space and Installation Requirements
Consider the different space and installation requirements of gas and electric instant hot water systems. Gas systems will require placement where there is adequate ventilation and air space and will need to be a certain distance from windows. Otherwise, a flue can be installed (taking up further space). On the other hand, electric systems are easier to install and more compact, but due to their lower flow rate, you may have limited options for where they can be installed in your home.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re stuck deciding which instant hot water system is right for your home, consult an experienced professional plumber who can assess your household needs and advise on the best instant hot water system for your home. You’ll also want to ensure you choose a trustworthy plumber to install your chosen hot water system safely and efficiently.
Call Your Trustworthy Plumber Today!
Choosing the right instant hot water system for your home is a significant decision that can impact the comfort and energy efficiency of your home – not to mention ongoing energy bills!
Contact My Home Plumbing today for reliable, trustworthy advice. We can help you choose the instant hot water system that best suits your home and ensure the installation process is smooth and safe.
