everything you need to know about electric hot water systems
When it comes to heating water for your home, choosing the right system is essential for comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings. One of the most common and accessible options available today is the electric hot water storage system.
As a locally owned and operated plumbing company serving Perth and surrounding suburbs, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade, repair, and maintain their electric hot water systems.
What is an electric Hot Water System?
An electric hot water storage system uses electricity to heat water, which is then stored in an insulated tank for later use. These systems are designed to maintain a steady supply of hot water, ready whenever you need it.
The tank can vary in size, typically ranging from 25 to 400 litres, depending on the household's needs. Water is heated to a set temperature by an electric element inside the tank and kept warm with insulation to minimise heat loss.
electric Hot Water Systems: How They Work
An electric hot water storage system heats water using an electric element inside an insulated tank. Cold water enters the tank at the bottom, where it’s heated by the element. As the water warms, it rises to the top of the tank, ready for use. A thermostat controls the heating element to maintain the set temperature, usually around 60–70°C. When a hot tap is turned on, hot water is drawn from the top of the tank while cold water refills from the bottom. The tank's insulation helps retain heat, and safety features like a pressure relief valve and sacrificial anode protect the system and extend its lifespan.
electric Hot Water Systems: Key Benefits
Electric hot water storage systems are widely available and simple to install, making them suitable for almost any home, even those without access to natural gas. They provide a reliable supply of hot water by storing it in a tank, ensuring availability during peak usage times, especially for larger households. These systems are also cost-effective upfront, with generally lower purchase and installation costs compared to other options. Their quiet operation makes them ideal for indoor settings, and many models can be programmed to heat water during off-peak electricity hours, helping to reduce running costs for homes on time-of-use tariffs.
electric hot water systems: Things to Consider
While electric hot water storage systems have lower upfront costs, they can be more expensive to run over time compared to gas or solar options, especially on standard electricity rates—making it important to consider long-term energy efficiency. Choosing the right tank size is essential to avoid running out of hot water or wasting energy; capacities range from 25L for singles to 400L for large families. These systems also require adequate space for installation, whether indoors or outside, with outdoor units needing weather protection. Although all storage tanks experience some heat loss, newer, better-insulated models can help reduce this. Regular maintenance, including periodic inspections and anode replacement, will help keep the system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
Brands We Recommend:
professional installation and advice
The PPG Guarantee
Our expert plumbers handle the entire process. From helping you choose the right system, to installation, plumbing, and testing. We also offer maintenance and repairs for existing heat pump systems.
All work is:
- ✅ Carried out by licensed professionals
- ✅ Fully compliant with WA regulations
- ✅ Covered by warranty and manufacturer support
- ✅ Backed by honest, upfront pricing
ready to have a chat?
Ready to make the switch to a more sustainable hot water system? Or not sure if a heat pump is right for your home?
Contact Pryceless Plumbing and Gas today for expert advice, a free quote, or to book your installation.