The truth about electric water heaters!
Have you got a question about electric water heaters? Here are the answers you need to make sure you don’t find yourself in hot water – unless you’re taking a shower or bath!
NSW government actions to phase out electric water heaters
For years, the NSW government has been talking about phasing out electric water heaters in residential properties. As of February 2017, The Office of Environment and Heritage announced that these units will remain in existing homes. There are a number of new standards for hot water installation in new properties under the Building Sustainability Index System (BASIX).
What does this mean for those of us who have electric water heaters already in our houses?
Should I get rid of my old electric water heater system?
In a word? Yes.
While the government is, for the time being, no longer going to mandate the removal of these old systems, continuing to have one in your house will do you more harm than good. Due to the high level of greenhouse gas emissions that they produce, electric water heaters could be responsible for nearly 40% of your household energy consumption!
In terms of finances, this equates to between $300 and $700 per year in an average household. What could your family be spending that money on instead?
Do electric water heaters really use that much energy?
They absolutely do. The way that the water is stored in order to maintain temperature for use means that, using a system like this, your house is constantly pushing itself to keep up with demand. An alternative system, like solar, is a far more energy efficient choice. In one year you would save over 3 tonnes of CO2 compared to what would be created using electric water heaters.
Are the costs of replacing these units high?
Expect that your initial outlay to install solar panels will be quite high. However, after that process you will notice savings immediately. Long term solar users often find that they RECEIVE money during the billing cycle instead of the other way around.
The truth about electric water heaters
These old-fashioned systems are not only bad for the environment but they are also doing irreparable damage to your hip pocket. Consider investing in a new, cleaner energy choice as energy prices continue to rise.
