There are three main types of hot water heater tanks in Australia:

• Electric Storage Hot Water System – Uses an electric element to heat water in an insulated tank.

• Gas Storage Hot Water System – Heats water using natural gas or LPG, often more cost-effective than electric models.

• Solar Hot Water System (with Storage Tank) – Uses solar collectors to heat water, with a gas or electric booster for cloudy days.

Most hot water heater tanks last between 8 to 15 years, depending on:

✔ Quality of the unit

✔ Water hardness (higher mineral content can shorten lifespan)

✔ Regular maintenance

✔ Usage and temperature settings

Signs that your hot water system needs replacing:

✔ Water takes too long to heat

✔ Rusty or discoloured water

✔ Leaking water around the unit

If your system is over 10 years old, consider replacing it before complete failure occurs.

🔹 Recommended maintenance schedule:

✔ Every 6 months – Test the Temperature Pressure Relief (TPR) valve and flush sediment from the tank.

✔ Every 5 years – Replace the sacrificial anode (in electric and gas storage units) to prevent corrosion.

Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of the heater and prevent breakdowns.

Gas instantaneous hot water systems heat water only when needed, rather than storing hot water in a tank. When you turn on a tap:

A gas burner ignites, heating water as it passes through the unit.

🔹 A heat exchanger transfers heat to the water, providing continuous hot water.

🔹 Temperature is controlled by a thermostat to ensure a safe and steady flow.

💡 Key Benefit: Unlimited hot water supply – never run out like a storage system!

✅ Energy-Efficient – Heats water only when needed, reducing gas usage.

✅ Continuous Hot Water – No running out of hot water, ideal for large households.

✅ Space-Saving Design – Compact wall-mounted units free up space.

✅ Lower Running Costs – More efficient than electric storage heaters.

✅ Environmentally Friendly – Lower carbon footprint compared to electric models.

✅ Longer Lifespan – Typically lasts 15-20 years

✔ Yes! Switching from electric to gas can save energy costs.

✔ Your home needs a gas connection or LPG supply.

✔ A licensed plumber will handle pipework modifications and gas fitting.

A gas hot water heater tank stores and heats water using a gas burner located at the base of the tank.

🔹 Cold water enters the tank through an inlet pipe.

🔹 A gas burner heats the water inside the insulated tank.

🔹 A thermostat maintains the temperature, reheating water when necessary.

🔹 Hot water is delivered when you turn on a tap.

✅ Fast Water Heating – Heats water quicker than electric storage units.

✅ Reliable Supply – Provides hot water even during power outages.

✅ Energy Efficient – More affordable than electric storage (especially on natural gas).

✅ Lower Running Costs – Gas is cheaper to run than electric hot water.

Most gas storage hot water tanks last 10 to 15 years, depending on:

✔ Usage frequency

✔ Water quality (hard water may shorten lifespan)

✔ Regular maintenance

✔ Tank material (stainless steel tanks last longer)

💡 Tip: If your unit is over 10 years old, consider upgrading before it fails completely.

A heat pump works similarly to an air conditioner or refrigerator in reverse.

🔹 Air is drawn into the system, where a fan absorbs heat from the surrounding environment.

🔹 A refrigerant fluid circulates and compresses the heat, increasing its temperature.

🔹 The heat is transferred to the water, stored in an insulated tank.

🔹 The cooled air is expelled, and the cycle repeats as needed.

💡 Key Benefit: Uses 70-80% less electricity than standard electric hot water systems.

✅ Energy-Efficient – Uses the environment’s heat instead of generating heat directly.

✅ Lower Running Costs – Can save up to 75% on electricity bills.

✅ Environmentally Friendly – Reduces carbon footprint compared to electric or gas storage systems.

✅ Government Rebates Available – Eligible for STCs (Small-Scale Technology Certificates) and state incentives.

✅ Works in Most Climates – Functions in temperatures as low as -5°C to -10°C, making it suitable for all Australian states.