Hot water systems - how to choose

Gas or gas-boosted solar hot water systems should be top of your list when you're choosing a new system.

Gas and solar system savings

Choose a gas hot water system with at least a 5-star energy efficiency rating to save 15% on running costs. A gas-boosted solar hot water system will double those savings and you may also be eligible for a Victorian Government rebate: up to $1,500 for Melbourne households and $1,600 for households in regional Victoria (see link below).

Greenhouse gas emissions of different hot water systems

 

Instantaneous versus storage systems

• Instantaneous and continuous flow systems heat water as you need it and are better suited to smaller households and holiday homes.
• Storage systems suit large households as they heat and store large volumes of water.

Maximise efficiency of your new system

Once you've chosen your new system, taking a few simple measures at installation will maximise the system's efficiency and your savings.

• Install the system close to your hot water outlets so water doesn't have to travel far and lose heat along the way.
• Insulate the first few metres of piping with closed-cell pipes to reduce heat loss around your hot water system.
• When installing solar hot water systems in frost-prone areas, check the system has frost protection and that this is covered in the warranty.