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Any homeowners that are currently using a tank storage water heating system or are thinking about changing the type of hot water system they use should consider getting an instantaneous hot water system. Commonly known as continuous flow systems, instantaneous hot water systems have unsurprisingly become very popular, offering users an unlimited supply of hot water. However, some homeowners may find that one of these systems is not suitable for their home. There are many factors that customers should take into consideration when thinking about getting an instant water heater for their household, some of which are detailed below.
Capacity
If you’re wondering if you should get a continuous flow system, it’s important to consider if the water flow rate is able to support the hot water demands of your family. Instantaneous hot water systems usually have a flow rate of 10 to 32 litres per minute and therefore are better suited to smaller households, as the heating element is only able to service a few taps at any given time. Households that regularly have various people using showers at the same time, as well as having their dishwasher or washing machine using water, may find the water capacity of an instant system to be inadequate unless multiple systems are installed. Larger households should consider multiple instant hot water units to ensure an adequate amount of water is supplied for their bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.
Size
Instantaneous hot water systems are very popular due to their compact size. Standard sized hot water tank systems are usually one square metre long at the base, which takes up a lot of space. A continuous flow system, on the other hand, is a fraction of the size of a conventional hot water tank and can be discreetly installed in an area that not many guests will see, ensuring it won’t affect your home’s aesthetic appeal.
Minimum Energy Performance Standards Rating
Both tank and instantaneous hot water systems do not display an Energy Rating Label like other household appliances such as air conditioners or refrigerators do. Instead, they display a Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) rating that indicates the system’s maximum annual energy consumption performance level. Continuous flow systems that have a MEPS rating have been industry approved, as they use less energy and cost less to run over their lifetime. The aim of a MEPS rating is to ensure that systems with poor energy efficiency are kept off the market. A system with a MEPS rating is considered to be both energy-efficient and cost-efficient.
Rebates & Incentives
Some states in Australia offer homeowners rebates and incentives that will help with supplementing the cost of getting a hot water system installed. The Australian Government currently offers the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) that offers rebates, discounts and special offers to both homeowners and business proprietors. Every state has its own conditions and rebates as far as the SRES is concerned, so it’s important to speak to a hot water system specialist in your state regarding what applies to you.
