Hot Water Systems How to Choose The Best Size For You

What is the most suitable size hot water system that is suitable for my family? This is a query we receive here on Lewater. The most common error is to invest in the wrong size of the hot water system, and then once it’s been installed and purchased the time is now. This is a scenario that homeowners in Australia are often in and that can lead to numerous problems; such as low hot water, and high gas or electricity costs.

It is important to find the appropriate size hot water system to meet your particular hot water requirements. One of the most important things is to determine what your water consumption is highest. If you can figure this out it will be simple to locate the perfect size device for the home.

Here are four key factors to help you figure out the ideal size of your hot water system to suit you:

Demand for Hot Water

To purchase the correct size hot water system it is important to know your demand for hot water to the highest. Start by looking at the number of people who live in the home. The average person consumes approximately 50 to 60 liters of hot water every day, though this may depend on your habits.

Per-person Consumption Statistics

Lower Consumption: 20 to 30 Liters

Average Consumption = 30 – 50 Litres

Maximum Consumption: 50 to 70 Liters

If you’re using less than the average user and you are not a frequent user, a smaller tank may suffice. However, if you and your family are using lots of hot water during the daytime, a bigger tank is needed.

How much time are you spending at home? If you spend the majority of your time at home, an encapsulated water heater should suffice. If you have more than one bathroom and you frequently shower at the same time, you’ll require a more substantial hot water system  maximum use. The number of your appliances that require hot water (washing machines, dishwasher showers, baths, jacuzzis, and so on.) will determine your demand for hot water.

The Type Of Hot Water System

The kind of water heater is also in size. For instance, a house with gas tank storage will require smaller tanks than those using one powered by electricity. In the case of a tank storage system the size of the tank and its capacity to heat it is important.

In the case of households that have a continuously flowing hot water supply, it is a critical element. Find out the amount of water each outlet requires within a minute to determine your flow rates. Use the data on peak demand to determine an accurate flow rate.

Peak or Off-Peak Power

For those who have an electric system for hot water, you will be able to take advantage of off-peak prices. If you’re looking to lower your energy bills and heat your water, you can do so at off-peak rates. But, if you’re planning to utilize the heated water for the day, you’ll need big storage. This can help you save cash in the end, however, because of the lower electric cost.

If you are planning to keep heating water throughout the high-cost times, there is no have to purchase an enormous tank. A smaller storage tank is sufficient for the hot water needs of your household.

If You Drink Hot Water

If hot water is utilized in your house, the duration determines the size of the hot water system. In a household where everyone is washing and showering simultaneously, there is a significant amount of hot water will be required. This means you’ll require an extensive system or else you’ll be short on hot water. 

However, if there are showers for people at different times during the day and do laundry at times that are not peak hours, such as late at night, a less expensive system is sufficient.

As you can observe from the above, it isn’t easy to figure out the right size hot water system that is suitable for the needs of your entire family. Another way to go about it is to analyze your current system and use it, e.g., are you running out of hot water? If yes, you’ll need more space in your system. Are you seldom home and are now sharing your home with fewer than you did a few years ago? You could move to a smaller apartment.

If you’re struggling to figure out the right system for your needs contact one of our experts to discuss your needs. Lewater will assist you with the math and provide suggestions about what kind of system is best for you.