Hot Water Brisbane - frequently asked questions

Emergency rooms across Australia are treating burns caused by hot water taps on a daily basis, usually in children. It is essential to have your hot water set at a safe level for all members of your family.

Your hot water system may have an external dial to set the temperature or it may be under the outer cover which will be an easy adjustment. The recommended temperature is 50 degrees Celsius. Some models display the temperature, however others just have a dial with no numbers leaving you to either guess or use you home thermometer to work it out . In some cases the best action is to install a tempering valve to ensure the hot and cold water is mixing correctly to deliver the desired water temperature. 

Which ever method you need to use, enlisting the help of a licensed plumber will ensure it is done correctly.

For more information on tempering valves.

Continuous hot water systems heat the water as it is needed by passing cold water through a heat exchanger device, igniting a gas burner or switching on an electric element heating the water. Continuous hot water systems are very economical.

For more information on continuous hot water

• Gas hot water systems are environmentally friendly. Natural gas burns much less CO2 to heat the water than electricity. Electric systems can burn as much CO2 as an average sized car.
• Gas burns very hot and very little heat is wasted making the system very energy efficient
• Running costs are less for gas systems than for electric. 
• Gas systems heat the water up fast. No more waiting around for the water to heat to finish the showers in the evening. 

For more information on gas hot water systems.

Electricity is up to 60% cheaper on off-peak tariff. You will also be reducing the demand on the electricity system by running your water heater during off-peak times.

For more information on electric hot water systems.

• Reduce the amount of electricity you need to heat water
• Reduce your energy bills - the sun is free!
• Reduce green house gas emissions generated by heating water
• Roof mounted panels are aesthetically pleasing. No large tanks taking up space in your yard.
• You may be eligible for a Solar Hot Water Rebate

Some factors to consider when deciding on a hot water system are:

• Running costs
• Size
• Electric, Gas or Solar
• Initial cost
• Energy efficiency
• Where the system is to be installed 

For more information on choosing a hot water system.

A heat pump hot water system is an Australian invention which works by extracting heat from the ambient air outside to heat the hot water for your home. Even if it is very cold outside the system can still work well.

For more information on heat pump hot water systems.

The size of the hot water system will depend on your home's water requirements. 

Some factors to consider are - 

• How many people live in the house?
• Do all the showers take place around the same time?
• Do you have a dishwasher?
• Do you have a spa?
• How big is your washing machine?
• Do you use the hot wash often?

For more information on hot water system size requirements.