How To Slash Your Power Prices By Using Your Hot Water System

Did you know that getting our water hot accounts for up to a quarter of our power bill? Saving energy is essential for our pockets and the planet, so we’ve put together a few simple tricks that will show you how to slash power prices using your hot water system. This article will look at simple ways to get those costs down, as well as things like how to buy the best hot water system to suit your household.

Simple steps to slash power prices using your hot water system

These few simple steps will help you start to make savings straight away.

1. Install a low flow showerhead

A low-flow showerhead feels just as good as a standard one but uses less hot water, and less hot water means less spending. Installing a good quality low flow showerhead is a great way to save energy.

2. Lighten the load of laundry

A front-loading machine uses about half the amount of water as a top loader – and that means less hot water for each cycle. Choose a lower temperature where practical too – 30°c is good for items and will save cash without compromising your cleanliness.

3. Check your thermostat

The thermostat on your water heater should be set at around 60°c – certainly no more than 65°c. If it’s higher, then you’re just heating water that doesn’t need to be heated. If you have no thermostat, just check the temperature using a thermometer under the hot tap. If it’s over 60°c, ask your plumber to adjust the unit so you can start saving.

4. Use a hot water energy saving thermostat

You can get your hot water set up to run on controlled load rates, which will mean you pay the lowest energy charges. Alternatively, use a timer, to operate off-peak.

How to choose a hot water system that will slash power costs

If you’re choosing a new hot water system, then you can set yourself up to make huge savings by getting a system that meets your needs. Choosing the right method of heating as well as the right size will have a big impact on your energy bills.

Size matters

Getting the right size hot water system is crucial. If it’s too small then there will be a constant race for the last of the hot water, too big and you’re heating water you just won’t use.

What size hot water tank do I need?

Size of household | Recommended tank capacity in litres

1-2 people | 90
3-4 people | 170
5-6 people | 200
7-9 people | 270

What type of hot water system will help me slash power prices?

There’s a host of different types of hot water systems, each with different benefits. Choosing the right one depends on lots of factors and the team at Parker Plumbing are happy to help you decide.

Types of systems available include:

• Gas or electric storage systems
• Instant gas or electric systems
• Solar systems
• Heat pump systems

There’s an even split between gas and electric systems for most Aussie households. Solar energy is making inroads too, with 1 in 10 homes using solar tech to heat their water.

Instant systems work by heating just the water you need, so they’re an efficient choice for many households. Choosing an electric system means you have the option to use solar energy, which is a way of future-proofing your home against rising gas prices, as well as being a better option for the planet.

Choosing a storage system means you are using a lot of energy to keep the water hot, even when you may not need to. They use a lot of energy and replacing this type of system can be a great way to slash power prices using your hot water system.

Solar systems are usually installed on the roof of your property, and they use up to 90% less energy than traditional systems. Many systems have the option to include a gas or electric booster for cloudy days.

Ask the experts

Whichever type of hot water system you are interested in, our expert team can help you make the best decision for your home or business. We’ll look at things like usage, location and practicalities of installation, as well as giving you a good idea of the current running costs for your chosen system.

Whether it’s time for a complete system upgrade, or you just need to know more about how to get the most from your current HWS, we’re happy to help answer any questions you have. We’ve been operating all over Queensland, especially West Brisbane, since 2008 and have a wealth of knowledge to help you slash power prices using your hot water system. Just get in touch by phone on 1300 489 897 or fill out our online enquiry form.