Choosing the right hot water system for your Melbourne home is one of the most important plumbing decisions you’ll make. The right choice can save you hundreds of dollars per year on energy bills while providing reliable hot water for your family.

Types of Hot Water Systems

Gas Hot Water Systems

How they work: Heat water using natural gas, either on-demand (instantaneous) or by storing heated water in a tank.

Pros:

• Lower running costs than electric
• Faster heating than electric storage
• Works during power outages
• Continuous hot water with instantaneous systems

Cons:

• Higher upfront installation cost
• Requires gas connection
• Annual servicing recommended

Best for: Larger families, homes with gas connections, those wanting lower running costs.

Electric Hot Water Systems

How they work: Use electric elements to heat water, stored in an insulated tank.

Pros:

• Lower purchase price
• Easy installation
• No gas connection required
• Reliable and simple operation

Cons:

• Higher running costs
• Slower recovery time
• Won’t work during power outages

Best for: Smaller households, properties without gas, budget-conscious buyers.

Solar Hot Water Systems

How they work: Use solar panels to capture heat from the sun, with electric or gas boosting for cloudy days.

Pros:

• Lowest running costs
• Environmentally friendly
• Government rebates available
• Reduces carbon footprint

Cons:

• Highest upfront cost
• Requires suitable roof space
• Performance varies with weather
• Needs backup system

Best for: Environmentally conscious homeowners, those with good roof orientation, long-term investment mindset.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

How they work: Extract heat from the air to heat water, similar to a reverse air conditioner.

Pros:

• Very energy efficient
• Lower running costs than electric
• Works in all weather
• Government rebates available

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Can be noisy
• Slower heating in cold weather
• Requires outdoor installation

Best for: Energy-conscious homeowners, those wanting efficiency without solar commitment.

Factors to Consider

Household Size

Energy Costs in Melbourne

Based on current Victorian energy prices:

• Electric: Most expensive to run
• Gas: Moderate running costs
• Solar/Heat Pump: Lowest running costs

Available Rebates

Victoria offers rebates for:

• Solar hot water systems
• Heat pump hot water systems
• Upgrading from electric storage

Contact us for current rebate information.

Signs You Need a New Hot Water System

• System is over 10 years old
• Rusty or discoloured water
• Inconsistent water temperature
• Strange noises from the unit
• Leaking from the tank
• Higher than normal energy bills

Our Hot Water Services

Hankook Plumbing offers:

• Expert advice on the best system for your needs
• Professional installation of all hot water types
• Same-day repairs when your hot water fails
• Competitive pricing with free quotes

We’re licensed to work with gas, electric, solar, and heat pump systems across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Ready to Upgrade?

If your hot water system is showing signs of age or you want to reduce your energy bills, contact us for a free consultation. We’ll help you choose the right system for your home and budget.

Call 0407 756 172 today for a free quote.