Category: Hot Water Systems

Types Of Hot Water Heaters

Water heating for domestic or industrial purposes accounts for an approximate of 20% of the total power used.

This is very expensive and thus some alternative hot water heating units have been invented to cut on this cost.

Gas-fired tankless water heaters are an example of this.

Tankless Heating Units

This version mostly known as rapid water heating systems are small-sized water heater units that only works when needed.

This type of water heater uses electrical coils for low energy demands and gas for high energy demand. Water gets heated as it travels through a warmth exchanger inside the tank. Water then flows without it being reheated again. This saves on energy unlike in other heaters.

The initial and mounting cost of this type of heater is high but in the long run, you will use less money paying for energy.

This type of water heater also has some restrictions on hot water flow prices thus very efficient when is used in big homes. It has a cooler that might interfere with your heating levels in winter.

Storage tank heaters

These are mostly steel cylinders that are fed with cold water inlet pipes which connect to the storage tank. Water is heated in the tank and it exits through hot water pipes that are on the top of the tank.

On the storage tank, there are temperature and pressure valves that open in case temperature and pressure exceed the set levels. At the bottom side of the tank, there is a drain pipe a control unit for temperature. If you are using the gas type heater, you can use any source of gas that you like. However, this is relatively more expensive than the electric heater and thus most people opt for the electric type.

Solar water heating units

These types of water heaters are used to supplement the electric heaters. Panels or glass cylindrical pipes are mounted on the rooftop where it absorbs the sunlight energy and it transfers it to an antifreeze closed-loop system that goes to the water tank. These types of water heaters are of great advantage in places that receive sunlight the whole day and are limited when there is overcast and on cold seasons.

The initial cost of these types of heaters is quite expensive but is long-lasting making the overall costs less. It will take 10 to 30 years to buy another solar heater.

Hybrid electric heating systems

This type of heater has a characteristic electric storage heater that is fixed with a warmth pump which removes heat from the surrounding and makes use of it. This type of heater uses 60% less energy than the conventional type. Installing this type of heart is similar to the conventional type with its payback time being shorter. Just like any other type of heater, the hybrid type has got its own drawbacks. Having the warmth pump on the upper side, a lot more space is needed for you to record enough heat from the air.

The heating units of this type of heater make a lot of noise, exhausts the cool air around thus during cold seasons, it can withdraw the warm air available.

Choosing the right gas hot water system for your home

Singing your heart out in the shower is one of life’s little pleasures.

However, the script changes when you turn on the tap, and cold freezing water streams out. It changes the tune of the music.

The beauty of having a gas hot water system is that it provides a continuous hot water flow whenever needed.

Why should you have a gas hot water system in your home?

Here are a few benefits:

The gas hot water system is environmentally friendly. It produces 33 percent fewer greenhouse emissions compared to electric water heaters.

They are cheaper than electric or solar hot water systems.

The gas hot water systems come in two types: instantaneous and gas storage hot water units.

Instantaneous gas hot water systems

They deliver continuous hot water when the tap is turned on. They are also called tankless units. They only heat water when needed and passes it through the system. There is no need for a storage tank as the hot water never runs out. The tankless units are small in size, like a small suitcase. They take up less space, look better, and deliver hot water when needed. Also, they can last up to 20 years, requires less replacement and maintenance.

Gas storage hot water systems

This system stores and heats water in an insulated tank. It is energy efficient and produces low greenhouse gas emissions making it environmentally friendly.

The gas heaters are fast and can heat a 170-litre tank in one hour. The recovery rate, the time taken to reheat a tank of water, is speedy compared to an electric heater. It is an ideal system for a family of four to take a shower without the water getting cold. If you have an old hot water system on its last legs, worry not; get a new hot water system installed within a day.

What should you consider when buying a new gas hot water system for your home?

For starters pay close attention to the energy star label. It will show how energy efficient the system is. The higher the rating, the better the system. It means it uses less gas thereby saving you money and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. It does not matter where you live; you can still enjoy the services of an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly gas hot water system.

Choose gas and enjoy those showers without a worry in the world.

Why You Should Consider A Tankless Hot Water Heater

If you are planning to replace your old water heater, you may be debating whether to get a standard hot water system or a new tankless water heater one.

When you consider the total cost of tankless devices, including installation costs, it’s no surprise that these models can cost 30-50% more than standard hot water heaters.

Tankless hot water heaters have many advantages:

Saving Energy with a Tankless Hot Water Heater

The average home uses 30% of its energy budget to heat water. Savvy homeowners often look for ways to lower this cost and one choice is to install an energy-efficient tankless heater. These devices, when compared with the more traditional tank-style gas heaters, are approximately 22% more energy-efficient.

This efficiency raises to 24-34% if your household only uses 40 gallons of water or less per day after choosing a tankless heater. How much does this put back in your wallet? Research has shown that this 22% higher energy efficiency equals approximately $70 to $80 in savings each year. Taking into consideration the price difference of $1,000 calculated above, saving $80 each year would mean that the initial expense of the tankless heater could be recouped in just over 12 years.

Research also shows that in reality, it would take closer to 22 years to recoup the cost. This is mostly because the difference in cost for these heaters is generally more than $1,000 and you are more likely to spend more maintaining a tankless heater compared to a storage heater.

The average lifespan for the majority of tankless devices is about 20 years and so it is likely that a tankless water heater will reach the end of its service life before enough time has passed to recoup the initial expenses in energy savings.

It is worth noting that many gas tankless water heaters qualify for a state tax rebate. This is equal to around $300 and does not apply to electric tankless heaters.

Always check the rebate rates and requirements in your area.

Electric Tankless Heaters Savings from electric models of tankless heaters are even less than from gas-powered devices.

According to the US Department of Energy, on average an electric tankless heater saves just $44 per year compared to tank-style heaters.

Thinking About More Than Finances

If you consider this issue just in terms of the dollar amounts involved, it does not make sense financially to get a tankless hot water heater. However, there are many reasons that people still buy and love tankless water heaters:

• Service life: a tankless water heater will last 20 years or more, while traditional models last just 8-12.
• Longer Warranty Period: A 15-year warranty is standard for most tankless models, while tank-style heaters come with a 6-year warranty.

Efficient Design

Tankless heaters have a compact design that saves space which allows for more flexibility regarding where it can be installed. It can even be installed outside, or in many areas in the home. In comparison, traditional models of hot water heaters are much bigger and need a specific large space, usually in the basement.

Endless Supply of Hot Water:

Hot water when you need it is one of the biggest positives of tankless water heaters. However, the supply possibilities do depend on household size and water usage so you should consider this beforehand. For very large households or households with a frequent demand on both the shower and appliances that use hot water, a tankless heater may not fit the bill. Depending on the amount of water required, two tankless heaters could be a good idea to meet high demand for hot water but clearly this will be quite the expense.

How Much Does Hot Water Systems Repair Cost?

Most people neglect repairing their hot water unit for years.

Even though it does not require constant repairs, you can hire a plumber to carry out regular hot water system service and maintenance to avoid lacking hot water.

You can even update to a new hot water tank for competence and saving energy.

Selecting a Hot Water Systems Repair Service

In Australia, most hot water tanks are either gas or electric. Therefore, it is effortless to select on the storage system to set up.

Most experts who undertake hot water repair services are trained, licensed and skilled to repair any of these tanks.

However, if you have a solar hot water system, contacting the company that delivered the system to you could be the best decision to have them propose you repair services.

Instead of postponing until the system breaks down totally, the following signs can help you see that your system has a problem:-

• Stained water
• Leaks from the tank
• Inefficiency
• Running out of hot water prematurely
• Making unusual sounds

If you observe any of the above, you should hire a hot water repair professional to check the tank.

You should understand that urgent repairs costs more than maintenance repairs because some worn out parts may be replaced or repaired.

To avoid incurring costly repairs, be anxious to note any of the signs above and contact a plumber.

If you don’t have the repair skills, keep away from trying to repair the tank yourself because you can cause more damage or even damage the system beyond repair prompting you to buy a new hot water system!

How Much Does Hot Water System Repair Cost?

To do hot water repairs, you need to have a bona fide license.

Normally, a complete service repairer is a licensed plumber or gas fitter and can have a limited license that lets him or her repair hot water units only.

Hot water repair may be charged by the hours and depends on your location.

In addition, a charge call-out fee (also known as a  flat rate charge) may be included in the total charge.

The call-out fee typically equals or is slightly higher than the hourly fee.

Just like any appliance in a home, hot water systems should be properly maintained to avoid incurring these repair costs.

If you detect any of the signs, don’t delay to contact a specialist to assist you with the repair. However, the costs shown here should be a pattern because they can change due to place and market forces.

A domestic hot water heating system is one of the most important factors in the energy efficiency of the home.

The law has set forth minimum efficiency standards for gas hot water units. The system will also affect the cost of operation and the level of carbon dioxide that is emitted.

The efficiency of the gas hot water systems will depend on:

• The fuel
• The type of gas hot water heater and the design
• Whether it is an automatic or permanent pilot
• The burner control including gas, modulating, or air/gas modulating
• The location of the gas hot water heate
• The radiator size and the design heat load
• The controls of the system
• The flow and the return temperature
• The commissioning and installation
• If the system if free of sludge and scale
• The schedule of regular maintenance

New gas water heater technologies are more efficient and are improved.

They are designed to use less energy and be durable. New regulations require that gas fired hot water unit need to be condensed. This excludes range cooker gas hot water heaters. Gas hot water heaters use more energy than most household appliances. The central heating system uses around 23,000 kilowatt per hour each year. Eighty-five percent of this energy usage is for heating up water.

To reduce the cost of it is important to get an energy efficient system.

Condensed gas hot water heaters and Energy Efficiency

These systems have a larger heating exchange unit or a second unit that is able to get more heat from the gas. If the gas hot water heater is non condensing the gases are set at a temperature from 120 to 200 degrees Celsius. In a condensing gas hot water heater the temperate ranges from 50 to 100 degrees to reduce the operating temperature. The water vapor is able to make a liquid that does require draining. If the flue gas side gets wet it may be likely to corrode.

The unit should be made from a corrosion resistant material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

Exceptions for a Condensing gas hot water heater

To determine if a non condensing gas hot water heater can be used a property assessment must be performed.

There are some key factors to look during the assessment including:

• The type of fuel that is used, the type of building it is used in, the position of the gas hot water heater, the options that the flue has, the terminal position of the flue, and the condensate drain points
• The lowest cost for installation
• The standard costs versus the benefits of the unit
• The installation position which will be determined by the ignoring furniture, fittings, if the building is occupied, and the preferred location of the unit
• A competent person must perform this assessment. A copy must be provided to the owner of the building. The owner needs to hold onto this copy to prove the assessment was performed.
• If approved during the assessment a non condensing gas hot water heater may be installed. The assessment form must be provided to the new owner if the building is sold.
• A condensed gas hot water heater is often preferred and may need to be installed for an additional cost.
• Any gas hot water heater installed needs to be evaluated and an assessment must be conducted.

It is essential that you know how the system that heats your home works.

In an average home more than half of the money spends on fuel goes towards warming up the water. As fuel costs increase having an efficient system is very important. This can also help reduce the amount of carbon dioxide that your home is emitting.  Newer houses have a central heat unit that includes a boiling device and a radiator. They are considered to be electric heating systems. Some houses will use a single heater that is separate from the main system.

Central Systems

A hot water unit is used to heat up the water that goes through the pipes to the home.

Many systems are powered by gasoline but they can also operate on different fuels including coal or wood. The gas systems is usually the least expensive and emits the least amount of carbon dioxide besides wood. Some homes also have a backup heater as well.

There are things that can be done to improve the energy efficiency of the central system used for providing heat.

• You can replace the system and install an energy-efficient model
• You can install better controls to make sure the system works the way you want it to
• You can switch to a new type of fuel and look for renewable fuel technology
• Insulate the home and fix any draughts
• Use a chemical inhibitor to help it operate more efficiently

Types of Hot Water Systems for Homes

Since 2005 all gas systems are more energy-efficient. Condensing systems have larger exchangers and get more heat from the material that they burn.

To tell if your system is condensing it has the following:

• The flue would be made of plastic. Metal it is not likely to be a condensing model.
• There is a plastic pipe running out of the bottom to the wall to a drain
• The gas unit was installed after 2005
• The oil burner was installed after 2007

A regular system will be more energy efficient than a combi hot water heater. Some systems lose heat from the water cylinder where a combi does not.

Secondary Heating

Many houses have a secondary source of heat or fires in addition to typical main sources. This is known as secondary heating. These sources can be used to heat up a smaller space. A secondary source can include:

• Portable units such as electric, convection, panel, or even fans
• Wall-mounted powered heaters
• Wood burning or fuel stoves
• Portable halogen heater
• Open fires
• Range cookers
• Gas fires
• Portable heaters

Smaller units can be used only in one room for a limited amount of time.

The central unit may not be enough and a secondary source can be used. Electric units are 100 per cent efficient but it is expensive to run. These units should only be used on an as-needed basis.

Wood or soil fuel stoves are more efficient at warming one room and emit less toxic gases.

Open fires can make the room warm but are not efficient. Many of the heat leaves the room through the chimney. It can also be a source of draughts when not in use.

Portable gas units operate on butane or oil. They need a lot of ventilation and release gases and water vapour that can make an unventilated room worse.

How Long Should a Hot Water Heater Last?

Depending on the quality of the hot water unit and how well it is maintained the tank can last between 8 and 12 years. The hot water heater does have to be flushed out and drained every year to remain in proper working condition. Like everything else in your home you need to take care of the hot water unit to make sure it is working properly.

Hot Water System Problems

If the hot water taps are not producing hot water, if there is a drip or a puddle near the water heater, or if it is making popping sounds these are signs there is a problem. The hot water heater may need to be replaced.

If you look for early warning signs of a problem you may save your home from damage. You will also have time to check out different hot water heater rather than purchase the first one you see in a water emergency situation. You will end up paying more money if you need immediate service.

There are some signs that it may be time to get a new hot water heater.

Age & Noises

The gas hot water heater will last between 8 and 12 years. The electric hot water units may last between 10 and 15 years. At this time you should begin to research new hot water systems. If you hear noises coming from the unit, these can be caused by the build-up due to hard water sediment and may result in an explosion inside the tank.

Water

Does your tap water look discoloured? If so there may be rust in the system. This indicates that the hot water heater is showing signs of wear. The water should be clear and any tint can indicate that there is a problem. A delay in hot water can also indicate a problem.

Moisture & Puddles

Look at the base of the heater for any dampness. This can be a sign that the unit is leaking. If you see puddles around the heater call the professional plumbers at Inline Plumbing and Electrical. They can be reached at 1300 465 463. Your unit may need to be replaced right away.

What Type of Hot Water Heating System Do You Need?

Now you are aware that a new hot water heater is needed, you can take a look at the different types and sizes based on your needs. There are some things to consider when looking to purchase a new hot water heater.

They include:
– How quickly you want hot water;
– If you are looking for a conventional or a tankless heater; and
– How many gallons of hot water you need in your home at a time.

To help you with the new hot water unit you can contact Inline Plumbing and Electrical at 1300 465 463 and they can help you with your decision. These professionals can give you information about the different types of hot water heaters. They can also recommend the hot water unit type that will best fit the needs of your home. Contact them today to get your new hot water system started.

Rheem Hot Water Systems

Rheem is the company most Australians have trusted for generations and it has been that way for over 60 years. Rheem hot water system is Australia’s chosen brand when the description of hot water units is the topic … for water that is steady, hot and strong!

A comparatively not costly remedy to the hot water needs, Rheem electric storage water heaters are perfect for utilisation. Rheem has always the answer that is right for every home. With money-saving, off-peak tariffs and are readily available in an array of sizes to fit the needs of a small family on a budget or a bigger family with a huge demand for hot water.

The Best Rheem Product For You

Rheem has the major large-scale scope of hot water units at hand in Australia. The company has a range of capacities and sizes just about right for every condition. These are solar, gas or electric storage, continuous flow or heat pump that is all strong and power efficient.

Rheem Continuous Flow

• Hot water available without interruption for daily use
• 5-Star energy efficient
• Remote Temperature Controllers for convenient temperature control
• Dense and can easily be wall-mounted
• 10-year warranty

Rheem Stellar

• Quick process for prompt hot water needs
• Conduits pressure for more showers and taps perfect for big families
• 5-Star energy efficient
• 10-year warranty

Gas Storage Hot Water

• All sizes for every family home whether you have a small or large household
• On-the-spot hot water on tap and/or shower
• Pipes pressure to ensure there is water always available
• Simple to fix and substitute for the worn-out water heater

Heat Pump

• Much more effective than that of electric water heaters
• Works non-stop day in and night out
• Best and yet simple solar answer

Solar

• The best means to heat up water
• Helps save the ongoing costs and energy
• Water heating technology is environmentally friendly

Inline Plumbing & Electrical has experienced Rheem service agents to give you expert advice and ensures you get the Rheem solution that is right for your needs. Call us on 1300 465 463 now!