Electric Hot Water Systems for Perth Homes

Electric hot water systems offer straightforward, reliable operation with lower upfront costs than other technologies. While they have higher running costs than heat pumps, they remain a practical choice for some situations, particularly rentals, budget-constrained replacements, or temporary solutions.

Electric Storage Systems

Electric storage tanks use heating elements to maintain water temperature in an insulated tank. They’re:

• Simple and reliable with few moving parts
• Available in various sizes (80L to 400L)
• Compatible with off-peak electricity tariffs
• Lower purchase price than alternatives
• Easy to install with no gas fitting required

Electric Instantaneous Systems

For point-of-use hot water, electric instantaneous units heat water as it flows through:

• Compact units suit small spaces
• Hot water only when needed (no standby losses)
• Limited flow rate suits single outlets
• Higher electrical demand requires adequate supply

Note: Whole-house electric instantaneous systems require significant electrical infrastructure and are rarely cost-effective compared to other options.

Running Cost Reality

We believe in honest advice: electric resistance hot water has the highest running costs of any system type. A typical Perth household pays $600-$900 annually to run an electric storage system, compared to $150-$250 for a heat pump.

This cost difference means upgrading to a heat pump often pays for itself within 4-6 years, then continues saving money for the system’s remaining lifespan. We’ll calculate your specific situation to help you make an informed choice.

When Electric Makes Sense

Despite efficiency concerns, electric systems can be appropriate for:

• Rental properties: Where owners prioritise low upfront costs
• Emergency replacements: When budget doesn’t allow for heat pump upgrade
• Temporary installations: During renovations or before major changes
• Point-of-use needs: Single outlets far from main hot water supply

Maximising Electric System Efficiency

If you have or choose an electric system, we help optimise its operation:

• Off-peak tariffs: Configure heating during cheaper overnight rates
• Timer controls: Heat only when needed, not continuously
• Temperature settings: 60°C storage, 50°C delivery (WA compliant)
• Insulation: Pipe insulation reduces heat loss

Consider the Upgrade Path

When replacing an electric system, we recommend at least considering a heat pump upgrade. Government rebates, lower running costs, and environmental benefits often make the higher upfront investment worthwhile. We provide detailed cost comparisons so you can make an informed decision.