Electric Hot Water Systems in the Illawarra
Electric hot water systems are a reliable and practical option for homes across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Nowra and surrounding Illawarra suburbs.
At Illawarra Hot Water, we supply electric hot water heaters from leading brands including Rheem, Dux, Vulcan and Bosch, with systems available in a range of capacities and configurations.
Featured Electric Hot Water Systems
50L OMNI X Stainless Steel Electric Storage Water Heater
Vulcan 400 litre Electric Hot Water Heater
Rinnai Hotflo 50 litre with Plug Electric Hot Water Heater
Rheem 250 litre Electric Hot Water Heater
How Do Electric Hot Water Systems Work?
An electric hot water system uses electricity to heat water, which is then supplied to your taps, showers and appliances when required.
The most common type is an electric storage hot water system. These systems heat water inside an insulated storage tank and keep it available for use.
Electric systems are available in different tank capacities and element configurations, allowing you to select a system based on your household’s hot water requirements.
Some electric systems can also be operated using off-peak electricity, depending on the model, electricity tariff and installation.
Electric Storage Hot Water Systems
An electric storage system heats water using an electric heating element located inside the storage tank. Once heated, the water remains stored and insulated until it is needed.
When a hot water tap is opened, heated water leaves the tank and cold water enters to replace it. The heating element then heats the incoming water so the system can maintain its hot water supply.
Electric Instantaneous Hot Water Systems
An instantaneous electric system heats water as it passes through the unit rather than storing a large volume of heated water in a tank.
When a hot water outlet is opened, water flows through the heating unit and is heated before reaching the tap. This type of system can provide a compact solution where space is limited, although the system needs to be appropriately sized for the required water flow.
Benefits of Electric Hot Water Systems
Electric storage systems maintain a supply of heated water ready for household use, making them a familiar solution for everyday hot water needs.
Reliable Hot Water
Electric storage systems maintain a supply of heated water ready for household use, making them a familiar solution for everyday hot water needs.
Wide Range of Capacities
Storage systems are available in different tank sizes, allowing you to select a capacity appropriate for your household and expected hot water demand.
Flexible Installation Options
Electric systems can be suitable for a variety of residential applications, subject to the property’s existing electrical, plumbing and installation requirements.
Storage and Instantaneous Options
You can choose between traditional storage systems and instantaneous systems depending on your available space and hot water usage.
Straightforward Operation
Electric systems use established heating technology and can provide a simple solution for homes requiring a dependable hot water supply.
Broad Product Selection
A wide range of manufacturers, models, capacities and configurations are available, making it easier to compare systems based on your property’s requirements.
Is an Electric Hot Water System Right for Your Home?
An electric hot water system can be a practical choice for many homes, but the right system depends on how your household uses hot water and the requirements of your property.
Household Size
The number of people living in your home is one of the main factors when selecting a storage capacity. Larger households generally require more available hot water than smaller households.
Hot Water Usage
Consider how often your household uses showers, baths, kitchen taps, washing machines and other hot water outlets. High usage during the same period can increase the required system capacity.
Available Space
Storage systems require sufficient space for the tank and associated connections. If space is restricted, an instantaneous system may be worth considering where the electrical supply and application are suitable.
Existing Infrastructure
Your existing electrical supply, plumbing, installation location and current hot water system can all influence which electric system is appropriate.
Budget and Running Costs
The purchase price is only one part of choosing a hot water system. Consider the system’s capacity, energy consumption, expected usage and long-term operating costs when comparing your options.
Your Existing Hot Water System
If you’re replacing an existing system, a like-for-like replacement may not always be the best option. Changes in household size, usage or energy requirements may mean another capacity or system configuration is more suitable.
What Size Electric Hot Water System Do I Need?
Choosing the correct capacity is important for ensuring your household has enough hot water when it is needed.
For electric storage systems, capacity is generally considered alongside household size and typical daily hot water consumption. As a general guide:
These figures are only a general starting point. Actual requirements can vary depending on shower frequency, number of bathrooms, household routines, water usage and peak demand.
Other Factors to Consider
When selecting an electric storage system, consider:
- Number of people in the household
- Number of bathrooms
- Frequency of showers and baths
- Hot water usage during peak periods
- Available installation space
- Existing plumbing and electrical infrastructure
- Future changes to household size or usage
For instantaneous electric systems, sizing works differently because the required output depends on water flow and the electrical supply available to the property.
Need help choosing the right capacity? Contact Illawarra Hot Water for advice.
FAQs
How long do electric hot water systems last?
The service life of an electric hot water system depends on factors such as the model, installation, water quality, maintenance and frequency of use. When a system reaches the end of its serviceable life, replacement may be more practical than continued repairs.
What size electric hot water system do I need?
The appropriate size depends on household numbers, hot water usage, the number of bathrooms and your typical peak demand. Storage systems are available in different capacities, while instantaneous systems are sized according to their required flow and electrical capacity.
Are electric hot water systems expensive to run?
Running costs depend on the system’s efficiency, capacity, electricity tariff, household usage and how frequently the water needs to be heated. Comparing expected energy consumption and operating conditions is important when selecting a system.
What is the difference between an electric storage and instantaneous system?
A storage system heats and stores water in a tank, while an instantaneous system heats water as it passes through the unit. Storage systems are available in a broad range of capacities, while instantaneous systems can provide a compact alternative where the electrical supply and application are suitable.
Can I replace my existing hot water system with an electric system?
In many cases, an existing hot water system can be replaced with an electric system, but suitability depends on the property’s electrical supply, plumbing, installation location and required capacity.
How do I know when my electric hot water system needs replacing?
Frequent breakdowns, inadequate hot water, leaks, corrosion, unusual operation or an ageing system can indicate that replacement should be considered. A professional assessment can help determine whether repair or replacement is the better option.
How much hot water does a household use?
Hot water consumption varies significantly between households. Shower frequency, shower duration, number of occupants, bathrooms, appliances and daily routines can all affect demand, which is why system capacity should be selected according to actual household requirements.











