Best Hot Water Systems

Nothing can sour your day quite like a shower turning cold, which is why you want a reliable hot water system that’s suited to your household. We go through what to consider when looking for a water heater, including your water use, energy efficiency, costs, and more. Continue reading...

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Rating

Price$299 to $8,604.74
$299
$8,604.74

Type

Max Water PressureAt least 200 kPa
200 kPa

Based on 7,084 Hot Water System reviews
EvoHeat EVO270 Series
  • Award Winner 2023
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

EvoHeat EVO270 Series

4.8 from 817 reviews

With its 270 litre hot water storage capacity, the EVO270 is a prime pick for households with up to six people. It's also listed as an energy efficient water heater by the Clean Energy Regulator, a government body responsible for reducing carbon emissions in Australia.

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Efficient to run
Quiet
Gives consistently hot water
  • Build Quality
    4.8 (574)
  • Value for Money
    4.4 (570)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.7 (474)
  • Noise Level
    4.1 (577)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.8 (503)
  • Heating Speed
    4.8 (513)
  • TypeStorage
  • Dimensions 1992 x 640 x 640 mm
Aquatech RAPID/X6
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Aquatech RAPID/X6

4.7 from 366 reviews

Latest review: The heat pump works perfectly for us it is set on a timer to come 3 times a day for 2 hours and todate we have not run out of hot water and with only 2 people and I have never heard the heat pump on

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  • Build Quality
    4.8 (301)
  • Value for Money
    4.7 (312)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.8 (255)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (310)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.7 (281)
  • Heating Speed
    4.6 (282)
  • TypeStorage
  • Dimensions 1582 x 620 x 620 mm
Hydrotherm
  • Award Winner 2023
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Hydrotherm

 · includes 4 listings
4.7 from 269 reviews

Using heat pump technology, the Hydrotherm Hot Water System lets a large household have hot water up to 70°C without breaking the bank.

Price (RRP) $3,195

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Economical
Reliable for larger households
High build quality
  • Build Quality
    4.7 (179)
  • Value for Money
    4.7 (182)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.7 (157)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (176)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.7 (157)
  • Heating Speed
    4.5 (159)
Joolca HOTTAP
  • Award Winner 2023
Gas Continuous Hot Water Systems

Joolca HOTTAP

 · includes 5 listings
4.5 from 516 reviews

With just the flick of a switch, the Joolca HOTTAP gives you hot water at your desired temperature wherever you are.

Price (RRP) $399 to $649

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Almost instantly gives hot water
Great water pressure
Easy to set up
  • Build Quality
    4.6 (297)
  • Value for Money
    4.4 (299)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.6 (283)
  • Noise Level
    4.3 (223)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.5 (246)
  • Heating Speed
    4.6 (248)
iStore Hot Water Heat Pump
  • Award Winner 2023
Solar Water Heaters

iStore Hot Water Heat Pump

 · includes 2 listings
4.9 from 79 reviews

As an alternative to using gas or electricity, the innovative iStore Air to Energy uses compressor technology to extract heat energy from the air and store it for using later.

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Affordable to run
Environmentally friendly
Government rebates available
  • Build Quality
    4.8 (71)
  • Value for Money
    4.8 (71)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.8 (64)
  • Noise Level
    4.3 (69)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.8 (65)
  • Heating Speed
    4.7 (64)
Reclaim Energy CO2 Heat Pump Hot Water System
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Reclaim Energy CO2 Heat Pump Hot Water System

4.9 from 75 reviews

Latest review: Beware if you plan on locating the heated water storage tank LOWER than the heat pump unit( Install Manual x2.0 "heat pump can be under or above the level of tank"). I located the 315 litre storage

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  • Build Quality
    4.9 (69)
  • Value for Money
    4.7 (69)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.9 (61)
  • Noise Level
    4.7 (69)
  • Temperature Consistency
    5.0 (64)
  • Heating Speed
    4.9 (63)
  • TypeStorage
Dux Prodigy 4
  • Award Winner 2023
Gas Hot Water Storage Systems

Dux Prodigy 4

 · includes 5 listings
4.5 from 181 reviews

With a 4.2 star energy rating and new burner technology that means faster recovery rates, the Dux Prodigy 4 lets you have reliable hot water when you need it - all without hiking up your power bill.

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Provides steady, strong hot water
Simple installation process
Energy efficient
  • Build Quality
    4.8 (140)
  • Value for Money
    4.7 (150)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.7 (115)
  • Noise Level
    4.7 (131)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.9 (134)
  • Heating Speed
    4.8 (133)
EcoAlliance Dynaheat
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

EcoAlliance Dynaheat

 · includes 6 listings
4.2 from 653 reviews

Latest review: Another shocking install and no service repair after 2 months of calls messages and emails. I thought they cared about their client but they keep saying we have escalated your request for a

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  • Build Quality
    4.3 (475)
  • Value for Money
    4.4 (483)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.3 (419)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (457)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.4 (385)
  • Heating Speed
    4.4 (391)
Dux Proflo
  • Award Winner 2023
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Dux Proflo

 · includes 28 listings
4.2 from 542 reviews

Latest review: It is suppose to be for a family of 3 adults and 3 children "OFF PEAk"-I can tell you that after 2 short showers there is no hot water left-WE USE COLD WATER FOR WASHING MACHINE AND COLD WATER FOR

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  • Build Quality
    4.7 (366)
  • Value for Money
    4.6 (378)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.6 (315)
  • Noise Level
    4.8 (304)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.8 (343)
  • Heating Speed
    4.7 (332)
Enviroheat Heat Pump Water Heater
4.5 from 65 reviews

Latest review: JR Gas & Water did a wonderful job installing our new system this week (we'd highly recommend them). It's been operating excellently and we're really happy with it. You can hear the noise of it

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  • Build Quality
    4.5 (51)
  • Value for Money
    4.4 (52)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.5 (45)
  • Noise Level
    3.7 (54)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.4 (44)
  • Heating Speed
    4.2 (44)
  • TypeStorage
  • Dimensions 1987 x 629 x 600 mm
EvoHeat EVO150-1 Series
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

EvoHeat EVO150-1 Series

4.8 from 39 reviews

Latest review: Easy to install and operate. Very happy so far, no shortage of hot water and it operates

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  • Build Quality
    4.8 (27)
  • Value for Money
    4.5 (29)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.5 (20)
  • Noise Level
    4.0 (28)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.8 (25)
  • Heating Speed
    4.6 (25)
  • TypeStorage
  • Dimensions 1623.5 x 568 x 568 mm
Dux Always Hot Continuous Flow
  • Award Winner 2023
Gas Continuous Hot Water Systems

Dux Always Hot Continuous Flow

 · includes 20 listings
4.3 from 67 reviews

Latest review: Was the first one I could find that fitted where the leaking Kelvinator was (Recessed into double brick wall). Got a 26L and condensor model in place of the old 21L. Needed a drain pipe fitted which

  • Build Quality
    4.5 (49)
  • Value for Money
    4.3 (47)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.5 (39)
  • Noise Level
    4.5 (47)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.3 (42)
  • Heating Speed
    3.9 (42)
Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 Heat Pump 551270
4.9 from 27 reviews

Latest review: Went from an Electrical System to our first heat pump and can say it has been significantly better. Low electricity use and great value for money. Highly recommend JR Gas and Water to install as they

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  • Build Quality
    4.8 (25)
  • Value for Money
    4.6 (25)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.8 (25)
  • Noise Level
    4.6 (23)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.8 (20)
  • Heating Speed
    4.9 (19)
  • TypeStorage
  • Max Water Pressure800 kPa
  • Min Water Pressure650 kPa
  • Dimensions 1825 x 690 x 720 mm
Envirosun
  • Award Winner 2023
Solar Water Heaters

Envirosun

 · includes 16 listings
4.6 from 33 reviews

Envirosun solar hot water systems use durable hot water tanks and high-density thermal insulation, making them built to last and able to deliver hot water to your household faster.

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Energy-saving product
Efficient, professional installation
  • Build Quality
    4.3 (15)
  • Value for Money
    3.8 (16)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.4 (13)
  • Noise Level
    4.3 (10)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.6 (11)
  • Heating Speed
    4.1 (12)
Sanden Eco Heat Pump
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Sanden Eco Heat Pump

3.8 from 117 reviews

Latest review: For a 250L tank, it takes about 1-1.5 kwh to run, and the daily heating cycle is about 1-2 hours. The heat pump does require defrost in Canberra's freezing winter. So install the heat pump in a

  • Build Quality
    3.4 (59)
  • Value for Money
    3.1 (60)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.8 (56)
  • Noise Level
    4.5 (58)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.4 (46)
  • Heating Speed
    4.6 (45)
  • TypeStorage
Stiebel Eltron WWK 222 / 302
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Stiebel Eltron WWK 222 / 302

 · includes 4 listings
3.8 from 78 reviews

Latest review: perfect and promp response. install within one.week. thanks so

Price (RRP) $4,491 to $4,794

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  • Build Quality
    3.7 (51)
  • Value for Money
    3.2 (51)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (43)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (49)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.0 (44)
  • Heating Speed
    3.8 (43)
Neopower Evacuated Tube Solar Hot Water
5.0 from 19 reviews

With 80% collector efficiency and a frost tolerance of up to -15°C, the Neopower Evacuated Tube Solar Hot Water System can reliably provide you with heated water around the home.

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  • Build Quality
    5.0 (12)
  • Value for Money
    4.9 (11)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    5.0 (11)
  • Noise Level
    4.9 (10)
  • Temperature Consistency
    5.0 (11)
  • Heating Speed
    4.8 (11)
Wulfe Hot Water Heater
Solar Water Heaters

Wulfe Hot Water Heater

 · includes 2 listings
4.5 from 21 reviews

Latest review: Just installed 2 days ago. Appears to be working

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  • Build Quality
    4.3 (11)
  • Value for Money
    4.3 (10)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.9 (9)
  • Noise Level
    3.6 (13)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.3 (6)
  • Heating Speed
    4.4 (7)
Emerald Energy All-in-One Heat Pump
Electric Hot Water Storage Systems

Emerald Energy All-in-One Heat Pump

 · includes 4 listings
4.7 from 18 reviews

Latest review: Have just had one installed a few days ago. The system is great so far n is happy about it. Like to know how to activate the apps in particular on automating the hot water with smart actions. Just

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  • Build Quality
    4.7 (15)
  • Value for Money
    4.5 (13)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.6 (13)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (12)
  • Temperature Consistency
    4.7 (11)
  • Heating Speed
    4.3 (11)
Smarttek Black Smart Hot Water System
Gas Continuous Hot Water Systems

Smarttek Black Smart Hot Water System

3.5 from 64 reviews

Latest review: We have been having the same issues as others. No hot water. Heats up cuts out. turns off. Followed the trouble shoot guide. Took it back to tentworld. I was told that I should call the support

Price (RRP) $349

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  • Build Quality
    4.0 (54)
  • Value for Money
    3.5 (58)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.9 (50)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (44)
  • Temperature Consistency
    3.4 (54)
  • Heating Speed
    3.9 (55)
  • TypeContinuous
  • Max Water Pressure1,500 kPa
  • Min Water Pressure25 kPa
  • Dimensions 440 x 300 x 150 mm
Page 1 of 5

Types of hot water systems

A gas hot water system mounted on a white brick wall.

Heating water for use in the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry uses over a quarter of the average household’s energy, which is why it’s important to carefully consider what kind of hot water system is right for you.

You’ll have to first decide what kind of heating method you want to use for your hot water system: gas, electric, solar, or heat pump.

Gas hot water systems · See All

Gas is quite an efficient energy source, so it can be a good option if you have a natural gas connection. Natural gas is significantly cheaper than LPG.

These systems are usually installed outdoors because they need adequate ventilation, but they can be installed indoors with a flue.

Pros
Running costs are cheaper than electric systems.
More efficient and environmentally friendly than electric models.
Cons
Initial cost is more expensive than electric systems.
Not as environmentally friendly as solar and heat pump options.
There’s uncertainty over gas prices in the future - it’s predicted it will become more expensive.

Electric hot water systems · See All

Electric water heating is relatively cheap to buy and install, but ongoing costs can be expensive. However, if your meter includes off-peak rates, then this should be cheaper.

Pros
Cheaper to buy and install than gas hot water systems.
Can be installed both indoors or outdoors.
Available in a variety of sizes to suit different households.
Cons
Most expensive to run because of electricity prices.

Solar hot water systems · See All

A solar hot water system needs to be installed in a sunny spot for it to be efficient. This means that they do tend to work better in certain parts of Australia, particularly Queensland and the Northern Territory. You might even want to buy a larger tank for days with less sun or when you want to use more hot water.

Most of these systems will still have either a gas or electric booster to ensure that hot water is always available, regardless of the climate.

Pros
Environmentally friendly.
Running costs are low, and may even provide a large chunk of your hot water for free.
Cons
Expensive to purchase, but government rebates and incentives can help offset this.
Their performance is dependent on the placement of the rooftop collector and the weather.

Heat pump hot water systems

Heat pump systems use electricity to transfer heat from one place to another rather than directly generating heat. These units need to be installed in a place with good ventilation, generally outdoors. Heat pump models can save you up to 80% on the cost of hot water compared to an electric storage system.

Pros
Highly efficient, making them economical to run.
Can be found in a range of sizes to suit different households.
Don’t require rooftop collectors, so can be a good option when solar access isn’t optimal.
Cons
The unit’s compressor can be noisy.
High initial cost, but government rebates may be available to help offset this.

Storage vs instantaneous hot water systems

A hot water system can be either an instant system or a storage tank system.

Instant systems

Also called continuous hot water systems, these only heat water when they're needed. They aren’t actually instant, but they usually just take a few seconds before you get hot water. Most models use gas, but you can still find electric models, which are typically only designed to heat water for a single water outlet.

A continuous flow system can be more suited to smaller households, as they’re cheaper to run and more practical than having a storage tank.

f you’re considering an instant hot water system, then you should consider its flow rate. You should opt for a higher flow rate if you have many water outlets in your home. A general rule of thumb is to get a flow rate of around 22 to 24L per minute for a house with two bathrooms.

Storage tank systems

These store a certain amount of heated water that can then be used throughout the day. Most gas, electric, solar, and heat pump systems use a tank.

They’re generally more cost-effective and so can be suited to households that use a lot of hot water; you just need to ensure you get a large enough tank to ensure the last in line for a shower isn’t left in the lurch mid-rinse.

If you have off-peak electricity available to your home, then these systems can take advantage of these cheaper tariffs.

These tanks are insulated, but it’s still a good idea to install them in an insulated or sunny place to minimise heat loss.

A close up of a man washing their hands under a bathroom faucet.

What to consider when choosing a hot water system

There are a few other things you should consider when shopping around.

Your household size and energy use

Understanding the hot water needs of your household is key to getting the right hot water system. An undersized system means that someone will probably miss out on a hot shower, while a system that’s too large will mean you’re paying for something that you’re not fully using.

The average Australian uses around 40 to 50L of hot water per day - more if you take long hot showers or often use hot water to wash clothes.

Here’s a rough size guide for water heaters, but you should also consult the manufacturer of a hot water system you’re considering buying as well as seek advice from an installer.

For storage tank systems, consider the number of people in your household:

  • A 1-2 person household could be fine with a small storage tank of around 90L.
  • A 4-person household will need around 135-170L.
  • Households of 5 people or more may find it more economical to find a large tank of between 200-300L than install multiple continuous systems.

For continuous hot water systems, consider the number of hot water outlets in your home and peak usage:

  • A 2-bathroom household will need 22-24L/min flow rate.
  • If you expect 2 people to be showering at the same time, you need at least a flow rate of 14L/min.
  • There’s also the option to install multiple systems and have them in different parts of your home.

Energy efficiency

The most efficient type of hot water systems are heat pump and solar water heating systems.

If you’re shopping for an electric storage system, a gas storage system, or an instant gas hot water system, look for Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). You may see energy efficiency ratings on gas systems, but these aren’t government regulated.

Price

Excluding installation, prepare to pay the following upfront:

  • Gas hot water systems often cost between $900 and $2000.
  • Electric hot water systems usually cost somewhere between $500 and $2000.
  • Solar hot water system prices can vary a lot, but usually cost between $4000 and $8000.
  • Heat pump models range from $2000 to $4000.

Hot water system installation costs vary a lot depending on the job and system you opt for. If you’re switching out your current hot water system with one of the same capacity and in the same location, installation typically ranges from $300 to $700. If you’re moving the system to another location, then you may have to pay between $1100 and $2500 depending on what kind of plumbing and electrical work is required.

You should also check for warranties. While these vary, most hot water systems should come with a warranty of at least 7 years - the longer the warranty, the more the manufacturer backs the quality.

Look for government rebates and incentives

There are a range of incentives offered by the federal and state governments - such as the federal government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme - for households to switch to energy-efficient hot water systems, particularly solar and heat pump systems.

A hot water system installer may also be able to tell you of rebates that are available to those living in your area.

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