Shopping for hot water systems for your home can be a confusing process. You’ll probably be asked all kinds of questions you don’t have answers to. So let’s look at what some of those questions might be, and what the answers are.
What Kind of Hot Water Systems Are There?
There are four main types of hot water systems: electric, gas, solar, and heat pump. They all work slightly differently, but they all do the same thing – give you hot water when you need it.
Which Hot Water Systems Are Most Energy Efficient?
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient hot water system, then a solar water heater will certainly fit the bill. These types of hot water systems use a special type of panel on your roof to capture the heat of the sun. Inside these panels are coils of black tubing, which absorb heat very well. When you open the tap, the water is released into your plumbing system, and new water replaces it.
Next on the list of energy-efficient hot water systems are heat pumps and gas systems. Both of these can work with a tank, or as an on-demand system. This often means you use less energy, and you never run out of hot water!
Why Does Tank Size Matter?
If you are not going for an instant heat hot water system, tank size will matter quite a lot.
That’s because every member of your household will use some of the water in the tank to bathe or shower, for washing dishes, and for other things. If you get a hot water system that is too small, someone will be stuck having a cold shower or bath – and no one wants that!
What About Safety?
The good news is that most modern hot water systems are very safe to use – provided they are properly installed and well maintained.
There are still a few safety issues to consider though. One is if your gas water heater uses a pilot light. You will need to know where and how to relight that if it goes out.
The other is if you have a pressure cylinder. It’s very important that the pressure release valves on these units are kept clear, or you could have a seriously dangerous explosion!
Where Can I Find Out More?
The best way to find out more is to call a plumber to find out what type of system is best for you. They will know what kind of questions to ask about your home, your family, and your hot water usage, and can help you to choose the right system for your needs.
There are many options out there, ranging in size, convenience, price, and more, but a professional plumber will be able to give you all the facts and tell you which brands and models would work best for you.