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In the market for a new hot water system? Not sure which system is right for you? We give you the lowdown on hot water system installation costs, and the possible range of hot water systems, to help you make an informed decision on which one is best for your home or business. Included is a system cost-comparison, running costs, PROs and CONs and more.
System choices
There are four main types of hot water systems:
- Electric storage hot water system;
- Electric heat pump system;
- Gas hot water system (with tank storage or continuous flow) and;
- Solar hot water system.
When choosing a hot water service for your business or home, there are some features you need to consider including your property and the people who live in it, the size of your home, running costs, available space, existing Hot Water Systems and available energy sources. The system’s efficiency in heating water can impact your convenience as well as your energy bill. While changing from one system to another can incur more cost, the long-term saving on energy costs may negate the initial hot water system installation costs, so this is also something to keep in mind.
How much does it cost to install a hot water system?
The cost of the installation itself depends on various factors, and due to this, hot water installation costs are generally quoted per hourly rate, not as a total fixed price. The more straightforward the installation, the fewer labour hours that are required. For example when the new hot water system is the exact model of the previous system, removing the need for changing fittings.
A quick quote will determine what costs are involved in installing the new system at your home or business (we offer FREE no-obligation quotes!).
The factors which affect hot water installation costs include:
- Fittings
- Energy Source
- Access
Fittings
Are you changing from Electric to Solar or Gas or simply the model or brand? If you are replacing your existing hot water system with the exact model or a compatible system, more than likely the fittings will be compatible, and all that will be left is to remove the old and in with the new.
Energy Sources
Whether you are changing brands or changing the energy source (e.g., from electric to gas), connections and fittings will need to be adapted and result in additional hours labour. However, you shouldn’t solely base your choice on lower labour costs, and longer labour costs may earn back their costs with energy efficiency and lower bills.
Access
Where is your current or proposed hot water system located? Is your hot water system located in a cupboard in your bathroom or beside the house? The easier it is to access to remove and replace the less labour that the licenced plumbers and gasfitters will need to spend.
Pros and cons of alternative hot water systems
Electric hot water systems remain the most common hot water system installed in Queensland homes, and certainly replacing them like for like with a similar system is going to be your cheapest option for installation costs. But like many on the Gold Coast, you may be looking at ways to save on high energy bills. When you need to replace your old electric system, it can be a good time to look at a changeover. So what’s out there?
Electric Heat Pumps
They range in price from about $300 to $1500 (+ Installation).
PRO:
- Highly Energy efficient
- Cheaper up front cost compared to Gas and Solar systems.
CON:
- Maintenance higher due to moving parts
- Noisy especially if close to windows etc.
Gas Hot Water Systems
They range in price from about $900 to $2000 (+ Installation).
PRO:
- Never run out of water
- No time of day tariffs
- Natural Gas and LPG options
CON:
- Running costs not as low as Solar
- If use LPG option gas, bottles need to be delivered
Solar Hot Water Systems
They range in price from about $2000 to $7000 (not including installation).
PRO:
- Lowest running rates
- Boosters provide hot water when there isn’t sufficient sunlight
- Boosters can be electric, natural gas or LPG.
CON:
- Roof Configuration needs to be compatible (adequate north facing roof space).
- More expensive to install, especially for those who do not have existing panels.
If you are interested in doing more research, you can find a great comparison of hot water system installation costs and buying guide on the Choice website.
Overview of hot water system installation costs vs running costs
Need some advice?
Don’t worry if you’re still unsure which system is perfect for your home or business. Our friendly plumbers at Plumb Perfection are more than happy to come out and visit your property and provide expert advice for your unique circumstances.
Check out more information about how Plumb Perfection can help you with your hot water system installation, and see our current promotions.
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