If you’re on the Gold Coast, your hot water system probably works hard year-round. From early morning showers to late-night dishwashing, it’s one of the most heavily used systems in your home. But here’s the thing: if it’s not running efficiently, it could be quietly driving up your energy bills without you even realising it.
Whether your current unit is a few years old or brand new, improving its efficiency can help you save money, lower your environmental impact, and get more reliable performance overall. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your hot water system in Gold Coast conditions.
Why Upgrading Your Hot Water System’s Efficiency Is Worth It
Heating water takes a lot of energy. In fact, for most households, hot water systems are the second-biggest energy users after heating and cooling. An inefficient system not only uses more electricity or gas, but it can also wear out faster and struggle to meet your daily needs.
Here’s what improving efficiency can do for you:
- Reduce energy bills by up to 60 percent with the right upgrades
- Provide consistent hot water even during peak usage times
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce your carbon footprint
- Extend the lifespan of your system with less strain on components
Step 1: Pick the Right Type of Hot Water System
If you’re installing a new system or considering an upgrade, it’s crucial to choose one that fits your home, lifestyle, and energy goals.
Here are the main types:
- Electric storage systems are common but tend to be the least efficient and most costly to run over time.
- Gas storage or continuous flow (instantaneous) systems offer better efficiency and quick access to hot water, especially if you already have natural gas on your property.
- Solar hot water systems are excellent for the Gold Coast climate. They capture and store energy from the sun and work well with an electric or gas booster for cloudy days.
- Heat pump systems use heat from the air to warm your water. They’re highly efficient and ideal for warmer climates like ours.
If you’re unsure which is best for your setup, a licensed plumber can help assess your needs and suggest the most efficient option.
Step 2: Take Advantage of Off-Peak Electricity or Timers
If your home runs on electric hot water, one of the smartest changes you can make is setting up a timer or shifting to an off-peak electricity plan. Running your system at night when electricity is cheaper can make a noticeable difference on your bill.
Some options include:
- Basic mechanical timers that switch your unit on and off automatically
- Smart controllers that connect to your phone or home automation system
- Speaking with your electricity provider about off-peak plans
Step 3: Insulate to Keep the Heat Where It Belongs
Heat loss is one of the sneakiest ways energy gets wasted. Insulating your pipes and tank is an easy, affordable way to boost your system’s performance.
Focus on:
- Exposed hot water pipes, especially in your roof space or under the house
- Storage tanks, particularly older models that lack modern insulation
- Pressure and tempering valves, which can lose heat quickly
Step 4: Adjust the Temperature Safely
Many systems are set to heat water hotter than necessary, which not only uses extra energy but can be a safety hazard too. Ideally:
- Set storage units to 60°C to prevent bacteria like Legionella
- Set continuous flow systems to 50°C, which is plenty for most household needs
For safety and compliance, always call a licensed professional if you need to adjust the thermostat. If you’re not sure where to start, this is the perfect time to call EVR Plumbing for reliable, expert help with your hot water setup.
Step 5: Don’t Ignore Leaks — Even Small Ones
That drip you hear from the tank or pipe outside might seem minor, but it adds up quickly in energy waste and water bills. Check for:
- Water pooling around the base of the unit
- Dripping pressure relief valves
- Hot water taps that never seem to fully turn off
Fixing leaks early can prevent long-term damage and improve efficiency instantly.
Step 6: Maintain It Like You Mean It
A hot water system isn’t exactly “set and forget.” Like any hardworking part of your home, it needs some attention to stay in peak condition.
Regular maintenance includes:
- Flushing the tank to remove sediment that can reduce efficiency
- Checking and replacing the anode rod (for storage tanks) every few years to prevent rust
- Inspecting thermostats, valves, and elements annually
A yearly service can help detect minor issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Not sure when your last service was? Book a professional check-up with EVR Plumbing and stay ahead of the curve.
Step 7: Ready to Upgrade? Consider Solar or Heat Pump Systems
For long-term savings and lower emissions, upgrading to a solar or heat pump hot water system is one of the smartest moves you can make. The Gold Coast’s warm, sunny climate makes it perfect for both.
While the upfront cost is higher, many homeowners recover the investment through:
- Reduced energy bills
- Federal and state rebates
- Longer system lifespans and lower maintenance costs
It’s a solid option if you’re planning to stay in your home for the next five years or more.
Start Saving with a Smarter Hot Water System Today
Improving the energy efficiency of your hot water system is one of those upgrades that pays for itself. Whether you take small steps like insulating pipes and adjusting temperature, or go all-in on a high-efficiency system, every change makes a difference.Start with what you can do today and don’t hesitate to call in a professional when it’s time to go further. From repairs to full system upgrades, EVR Plumbing is here to help you make the most of your hot water, efficiently, affordably, and stress-free.