When it comes to working out what size you will need for your hot water system there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, you will need to think about the space you are occupying and how much water will be used and how many different sources in the building. Secondly, and most importantly you will need to work out the maximum demand and how much water will be used at that point. Commonly you reach maximum demand in the average domestic household first thing in the morning. This is typically the time everyone is getting ready for work or school or generally ready for the day, so the hot water is being used for things like washing, cooking, and heating.
Now there are many different sizes of hot water systems ranging from 25L all the way up to 400L, so working out which one is best for you can be tricky. Generally, the average 4-person household uses around 200 litres of water a day, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need a 200L hot water cylinder. The size of the hot water system is also dependent on the input to ensure you don’t run out of hot water.
Another factor you will need to consider is whether your input powering your hot water system is gas or electric, as this can also vary the size of your cylinder requirements. If you have a gas-powered hot water system you may be able to have a smaller cylinder as the gas can heat refilled water much quicker. The only downside is with gas-powered is that it would not be able to provide hot water at a high demand, for example, if several people are showering at once. However, although an electric system is often cheaper to install, a gas hot water system works out cheaper in the long run as it is more cost-effective on day-to-day usage.
If you are new to the world of hot water systems you have probably found yourself overwhelmed with information on the internet about brands, sizes and quality. Once you have got an idea around size, the easiest option is to opt for a well-known and trusted brand that will serve you well in the long run. Something like a rheem hot water system will provide you with that stability you are seeking.
So, it’s safe to say there is a lot to think about before deciding what size is right, don’t rush into it, and make sure to double-check your calculations. There are a lot of suppliers that will provide you with advice for what is best for your house so don’t be afraid to ask. Just remember, the main thing to consider is how many people are in your house and how many litres of hot water they are using each day, using that as a point of reference should set good expectations for the hot water system you need.