Need a hot water system replacement on the Gold Coast? This blog – written by an expert plumber Joe Currey – has been created to help you make an informed choice.
Hot water system installation Gold Coast – one size doesn’t fit all!
I get it.
With so many different options out there, choosing the right hot water system for your Gold Coast home or business can be frustrating and confusing.
My name is Joe Currey and I’m your local plumber. I’ve been installing hot water systems for over 20 years and it’s one of my favourite parts of the job.
So I thought I’d save you approximately eleventy-million hours by helping you decide which system might be best suited to your individual needs,
Can’t be bothered to read this blog? No problem! Give me a call and I’ll talk you through hot water system replacement options for your Gold Coast home or business.
Because at Oceania Plumbing, we believe you deserve excellent customer service – as well as top-notch plumbing and gas expertise.
So let’s kick off with..
15 factors you should consider before buying a new hot water heater on the Gold Coast
1) Household Size and Water Usage
A paramount consideration is the size of your household and its water consumption habits. Larger families with higher hot water demands might find electric or gas storage heaters more suitable, whereas smaller households could benefit from tankless or solar heaters.
2) Energy Efficiency
Homeowners may consider investing in heaters with stellar energy star ratings, which offer lower operational costs, saving you $$$ over time. Even better, they reduce your carbon footprint, so you’re doing a solid for the environment too. Woohoo!
4) Available Space
What space do you have available for the installation? The Gold Coast’s premium real estate often necessitates efficient space utilisation. If your home is on the cozy side, tankless and heat pump heaters may be a wise choice as they require less space than storage tank heaters. Always consider the available space before choosing your hot water heater.
5) Initial Costs and Long-Term Savings
While initial costs may influence decisions, it’s essential to analyse the long-term savings potential. Although tankless and solar heaters often command higher upfront expenses, their energy efficiency can result in substantial savings over the life of the system. It’s also really important to consider the warranty; work out the cost per year and see which system comes up trumps for you. Also, consider whether you’re likely to move within the next couple of years.
6) Maintenance and Lifespan
Different types of heaters have varying maintenance requirements and lifespans. Research the maintenance needs and expected lifespan of the heater you’re considering.
7) Water Quality
If your area has hard water, consider how different types of heaters might be affected by mineral buildup and scale. Some heaters are more resistant to these issues than others.
8) Fuel Availability
If you’re considering a gas or oil-powered heater, check the availability and cost of the fuel in your area. Also, consider the environmental impact of the chosen fuel source.
9) Warranty and Support
Look into the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide you with more peace of mind. Additionally, check the availability of local service and support.
10) Regulations and Incentives
Be aware of any local regulations, codes, or incentives related to hot water heaters. Some areas offer incentives or rebates for installing energy-efficient or solar heaters.
11) Future expansion
Consider your future plans. If you plan to expand your household or increase hot water usage, make sure the chosen heater can accommodate these changes.
12) Noise Level
Some heaters, particularly heat pump systems, might generate noise during operation. If noise is a concern, look for quieter models or ensure proper placement to minimise disruption.
13) Integration with Smart Technology
Some modern hot water heaters can be integrated with smart home systems, allowing you to monitor and control your heater remotely for increased convenience and energy efficiency.
14) Environmental Impact
If environmental concerns are important to you, consider options like solar, heat pump, or high-efficiency gas heaters that have lower carbon footprints.
15) Quality and Brand Reputation
Research the reputation of the manufacturer and the specific model you’re considering. Opt for reputable brands known for quality and reliability.
Now you’ve identified your needs, we need to weigh up the different..
Types of Hot Water Heaters (and the brands I personally recommend)
Electric Storage Heaters
Electric storage heaters are a popular option due to their ease of installation and affordability. They store heated water in an insulated tank, ready for use. While the initial cost is lower, they can have higher energy consumption (particularly during peak demand periods.) If you’re interested in an electric storage heater, check out these brands:
Gas Storage Heaters
Gas storage heaters, powered by natural gas, provide rapid heating and energy efficiency. The stored hot water is available for immediate use, making them ideal for larger households with varying water consumption patterns. Check out these brands:
Continuous Flow (Tankless) Heaters
Tankless heaters, or continuous flow heaters, heat water instantaneously as it flows through the unit. They offer a limitless supply of hot water and are highly energy-efficient. Their compact design makes them suitable for homes with limited space. These are my favourite tankless brands:
Heat Pump Heaters
Although they are significantly more expensive, heat pump heaters are popular with conscientious homeowners who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint. They harness ambient heat from the air and transfer it to the water. They excel in energy efficiency, offering significant long-term savings. However, they require a decent amount of space.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters capitalise on the abundant sunlight in our beautiful Gold Coast region. They harness solar energy to heat water, reducing energy bills and environmental impact. These heaters are a sustainable option, particularly for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Please note, this is not an exhaustive list of every hot water system brand on the market. These are simply the brands I generally recommend to my clients.
Why?
Because I know these hot water system brands won’t let my clients down. They are time-tested, they come with great warranty and it’s easy to get parts if something does go wrong down the track
Rightho, now we’ve established the type of hot water system you want, it’s time to think about who’s going to install it.
Selecting a Reliable and Licensed Plumber
Licenses and Certifications
When entrusting the installation of a hot water heater, homeowners must ensure that the plumber possesses all the requisite licenses and certifications. Don’t be afraid to ask to see them! I’ll happily show you mine. Regulatory compliance ensures both safety and adherence to industry standards.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Engaging with reputable plumbers involves scrutinising customer reviews and testimonials. Insights from previous clients offer a glimpse into the quality of service, workmanship, and professionalism exhibited by the plumber.
We’re very proud of all our five-star reviews on our website and on google. We make our customers happy because we believe in top-notch customer service as well as plumbing excellence.
Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the chosen plumber are pivotal in achieving a seamless and efficient installation. Opt for professionals who specialise in hot water systems and boast a proven track record of successful installations – for example, us at Oceania Plumbing!
5. Conclusion
At Oceania Plumbing, we understand the challenges you face. You want to buy the most suitable hot water heater for your individual requirements and you want to have it installed safely.
Let us help.
Contact me – Joe from Oceania Plumbing – today and I’ll give you a free estimate. (Exact quotes require a paid site visit.)
What are you waiting for?