Discover Which Hot Water System Saves More Energy and Space in Your Perth Home
A reliable hot water system is one of those household essentials you don’t think much about — until it suddenly stops working. Whether you’re upgrading your bathroom, replacing an old unit, or planning a new home build, the choice between a tankless (on-demand) and a traditional water heater can affect everything from your energy efficiency to your daily comfort and utility costs.
This guide breaks down how each system works, their pros and cons, and which type suits your Perth home best.
1. How Each System Works
Traditional Water Heaters
These units store a large volume of hot water in an insulated tank, keeping it heated and ready to use. However, they constantly reheat water to maintain temperature, which means higher standby energy consumption.
Tankless Water Heaters (On-Demand Systems)
Instead of storing water, these heat it instantly as it flows through the unit. This eliminates the need for storage and ensures endless hot water, only using energy when required.
Expert Tip: For best results, book a licensed Perth plumber for installation. They’ll assess your home’s water pressure, household size, and gas/electrical setup to ensure your new system runs efficiently and safely.
2. Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
When it comes to energy performance, tankless systems take the lead. Because they only heat water when needed, they reduce energy waste and lower long-term operating costs.
In contrast, traditional storage systems continuously reheat water — even when you’re not using it — leading to higher energy bills over time.
Fact: According to industry data, tankless water heaters can be up to 30% more energy-efficient than standard storage models, helping Perth homeowners save more in the long run.
If you’re already noticing higher bills or inconsistent water temperature, it may be time to consider a hot water system replacement.
3. Installation and Space Requirements
If you live in a smaller Perth home, unit, or apartment, tankless systems are an excellent space-saving choice. They’re compact, wall-mounted, and can be installed both indoors and outdoors.
Traditional systems, on the other hand, require more space and are usually fitted in garages, laundries, or storage areas.
Did You Know? A professional residential plumbing service in Perth can help assess your property’s layout and energy source to recommend the most practical solution for your home.
4. Performance and Water Supply
Tankless water heaters provide an unlimited flow of hot water, but their output rate depends on the model and household demand. Running multiple showers and appliances at the same time may slightly reduce water pressure or temperature.
Traditional systems can deliver water to several outlets at once — but once the stored supply runs out, you’ll need to wait for it to reheat.
When choosing, consider:
- The number of people in your household
- How often multiple taps or showers are used simultaneously
- Your home’s plumbing design and water flow rate
If you’re unsure, your plumber can help calculate the ideal system capacity for your family’s daily needs.
5. Maintenance and Lifespan
Perth’s hard water is known to cause scale buildup, which can affect any hot water system’s efficiency over time.
To keep your system performing at its best:
- Tankless systems require periodic descaling to prevent mineral buildup.
- Traditional systems should be flushed regularly and have their anode rods replaced to prevent corrosion.
Lifespan Comparison:
- Tankless: 15–20 years
- Traditional: 8–12 years
Scheduling annual hot water maintenance with a licensed Perth plumber can extend your unit’s life and help prevent unexpected breakdowns.
6. Why Local Expertise Matters
Perth’s unique water conditions, plumbing codes, and climate make it important to work with a local plumbing expert. Local plumbers understand:
- How to manage hard water and prevent scale
- Council installation and compliance requirements
- The best system types for Perth’s environment and energy costs
By hiring a local plumber in Perth, you’ll ensure your system performs efficiently and safely with advice tailored to your home’s exact needs.
Perth Local Plumbing and Gas Service – Your Hot Water Experts
At Perth Local Plumbing and Gas Service, we specialise in installation, repair, and replacement of hot water systems — including both tankless and traditional models.
We also provide a full range of trusted Perth plumbing services:
- Emergency plumbing repairs
- Blocked drain clearing
- Gas fitting and leak detection
- Water filtration systems
- General residential plumbing
FAQs
1. Are tankless water heaters more expensive to install?
Yes, the upfront cost is typically higher, but they often pay for themselves through energy savings and longer lifespan.
2. Can I replace my old storage heater with a tankless unit?
Absolutely. A licensed Perth plumber can inspect your plumbing and gas/electrical setup to ensure compatibility.
3. How often should I service my water heater?
You should service your hot water system once a year to prevent scale buildup, corrosion, and efficiency loss
4. Can tankless water heaters work with solar energy?
Yes — many modern tankless units in Perth can integrate with solar systems, offering even greater energy savings.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a tankless and a traditional water heater ultimately depends on your household size, budget, and energy goals. Whichever option you choose, the key is professional installation and regular maintenance, both of which ensure safe, efficient, and reliable hot water for years to come.
Contact our team today for expert advice on your hot water heater repair or upgrade. We’ll help you find the most energy-efficient, reliable, and space-saving system for your Perth home — so you can enjoy perfect hot water all year round.
