Best Electric Hot Water Systems in Australia: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the best electric hot water system in Australia depends on your household size, current setup, available space, tank size needs, budget and daily hot water demand. Electric storage hot water is one of the most common options for Australian homes, especially when replacing an existing electric tank with a similar system.

At Hot Water Outlet, you can compare electric hot water systems online from trusted brands, along with the wider range of hot water systems, heat pump hot water systems, gas hot water systems, instant gas hot water systems, instant electric hot water systems and common valves, pipework and fittings.

Quick Answer: What Is the Best Electric Hot Water System?

The best electric hot water system is the one that matches your household’s hot water use, existing connection layout, tank size requirements, available space and replacement needs.

As a general guide:

• Choose a smaller electric hot water system for lower-demand homes, units, townhouses or compact applications.

• Choose a medium electric storage system for everyday household use where demand is moderate.

• Choose a larger electric storage system for family homes with more people, more bathrooms or heavier hot water use.

• Choose an instant electric hot water system only for suitable point-of-use applications where the electrical requirements and flow demand match the product.

• Compare heat pump hot water if you want an efficient electric storage alternative and have a suitable location.

For most buyers, the best starting point is to compare electric hot water systems by tank capacity, brand, dimensions, connection positions, pressure rating, recovery rate and product specifications.

Why Electric Hot Water Systems Are Popular

Electric hot water systems are popular because they are familiar, widely used and available in a broad range of tank sizes. Many Australian homes already have electric storage hot water, so replacing an old unit with another electric storage system can be a practical starting point.

Electric hot water may suit homes where:

• The current hot water system is already electric

• There is no natural gas or LPG supply

• A storage tank setup is preferred

• The household wants a familiar replacement option

• The existing location is suitable for another tank

• The home needs a simple supply-only product comparison

• A range of tank sizes and brands need to be compared online

Electric storage is not the only electric option. Buyers may also compare heat pump hot water systems if they want a more energy-efficient electric storage alternative, or instant electric hot water systems for suitable point-of-use applications.

What Is an Electric Hot Water System?

An electric hot water system uses electricity to heat water. Most electric systems used for whole-home supply are storage systems, meaning they heat water and keep it inside a tank until it is needed.

Electric storage systems are usually selected by tank capacity in litres. The right size depends on the number of people in the home, number of bathrooms, shower habits, recovery rate and whether hot water is used in multiple areas at once.

Electric hot water systems are commonly compared by:

• Tank capacity

• Recovery rate

• Physical dimensions

• Connection positions

• Pressure rating

• Indoor or outdoor suitability

• Power requirements

• Brand and model

• Warranty information

• Product specifications

The goal is not just to buy an electric hot water system. The goal is to buy the right size and configuration for your home.

Electric Storage vs Instant Electric Hot Water

Electric storage and instant electric hot water systems are different.

An electric storage system heats water and stores it in a tank. This is the common option for whole-home electric hot water. An instant electric system heats water as it passes through the unit and is usually suited to specific point-of-use applications rather than every whole-home setup.

For most households replacing an existing electric tank, electric hot water systems are the main category to compare. For compact use cases, instant electric hot water systems may also be worth reviewing.

Electric Hot Water vs Heat Pump Hot Water

Electric storage and heat pump hot water systems both use electricity, but they work differently.

A standard electric storage tank uses an electric element to heat water. A heat pump uses heat from the surrounding air to help heat stored water, which can make it a strong option for suitable homes wanting an efficient electric hot water upgrade.

Choose electric storage when you want a practical like-for-like replacement and the existing setup already works well. Choose a heat pump hot water system if you want to compare efficient electric storage options and your home has a suitable location.

Best Electric Hot Water System by Household Type

Best Electric Hot Water System for Small Homes

Small homes, units and townhouses may suit a smaller electric storage system, but the right size still depends on daily hot water demand. A one-bedroom unit with short showers has very different needs from a townhouse with multiple people and regular laundry use.

For smaller homes, compare:

• Number of occupants

• Number of bathrooms

• Available space

• Existing tank size

• Connection positions

• Recovery rate

• Product dimensions

• Power requirements

• Indoor or outdoor suitability

A compact electric storage system may be practical where space is limited, but do not choose the smallest option automatically. The system still needs to provide enough hot water for the household.

Best Electric Hot Water System for Families

Family homes usually need a larger storage tank than smaller households. The best electric hot water system for a family depends on how many people live in the home, how many bathrooms are used and whether showers happen back-to-back.

For families, compare:

• Tank capacity

• Recovery rate

• Morning and evening hot water demand

• Number of bathrooms

• Bath use

• Kitchen use

• Laundry use

• Whether hot water is used at the same time

• Current system size

• Whether the old system runs out

A larger electric storage system may be suitable for families with heavier daily use, but capacity should still be matched to actual household demand.

Best Electric Hot Water System for Rental Properties

For rental properties, the best electric hot water system is usually one that suits the existing setup, likely tenant demand and replacement requirements. A like-for-like replacement can often be practical if the existing electric system has been working well.

For rental properties, compare:

• Current system type

• Current tank capacity

• Number of bedrooms

• Number of bathrooms

• Likely tenant demand

• Product availability

• Brand recognition

• Warranty information

• Delivery access

• Required valves and fittings

A rental property does not always need the largest system. It needs the right system for the property size and expected use.

Best Electric Hot Water System for Renovations

Renovations can change hot water demand. A new bathroom, larger bath, upgraded laundry or new kitchen layout can increase the amount of hot water needed each day.

An electric hot water system may suit a renovation if:

• The home already uses electric storage

• The existing location still works

• The new layout does not require a different system type

• The tank size can be matched to the upgraded demand

• The product dimensions suit the available space

For renovation projects, also check whether you need valves, pipework and fittings as part of the wider hot water setup.

Best Electric Hot Water System for Like-for-Like Replacement

Electric storage hot water is often chosen for like-for-like replacement. If your old electric tank has failed, is leaking or no longer keeping up, replacing it with another electric storage system may be one of the first options to compare.

Before ordering, check:

• Existing brand and model

• Current tank capacity

• Current dimensions

• Connection positions

• Pressure rating

• Power requirements

• Indoor or outdoor location

• Whether the current tank size was enough

• Required valves and fittings

• Delivery access

If the current system supplied enough hot water, a similar tank capacity may be a practical starting point. If it often ran out, compare larger options or consider whether a heat pump hot water system may also be worth reviewing.

What Size Electric Hot Water System Do I Need?

Electric hot water systems are usually sized by tank capacity in litres. The right tank size depends on how much hot water the home uses each day.

When choosing a size, consider:

• Number of people in the home

• Number of bathrooms

• Number of showers per day

• Shower length

• Bath use

• Kitchen use

• Laundry use

• Whether hot water is used at the same time

• Current tank size

• Whether the current system runs out

• Recovery rate

• Available space

A small household may suit a smaller tank, while a larger family may need a larger storage system. The best size is not always the biggest unit. It is the system that matches the household’s normal hot water use.

Common Electric Hot Water System Sizes

Electric hot water systems are available in a wide range of capacities. Smaller tanks can suit compact spaces and lower-demand properties, while larger tanks are often compared for family homes.

Common electric hot water sizing categories include:

• Compact systems for lower-demand applications

• Small to medium tanks for smaller homes

• Medium tanks for everyday household use

• Larger tanks for families

• High-capacity systems for heavier hot water demand

When comparing sizes, remember that tank capacity is only part of the decision. Recovery rate, dimensions, power requirements and connection layout also matter.

Should I Replace My Old Electric Hot Water System With the Same Size?

Replacing an old electric hot water system with the same size can be practical if the old unit worked well and the household’s hot water demand has not changed.

The same size may suit if:

• The old system rarely ran out

• Household size has stayed the same

• Bathroom count has not changed

• Daily routines are similar

• The existing location still works

• The current tank capacity suits the property

A different size may be worth comparing if:

• The old system often ran out

• More people now live in the home

• A bathroom has been added

• A bath has been added

• Hot water use has increased

• The property is being renovated

• The old system was oversized for current use

The old unit is a useful starting point, but the new system should be chosen for the home as it is now.

Electric Hot Water Brands to Compare

Hot Water Outlet lists recognised hot water brands so buyers can compare electric systems by size, specifications and suitability.

Rheem Electric Hot Water Systems

Rheem hot water systems are widely recognised across the Australian hot water market. Rheem may be worth comparing if you want a familiar brand with a broad range of hot water options.

When comparing Rheem electric hot water, check the tank size, dimensions, connection positions, pressure rating and product specifications.

Rinnai Electric Hot Water Systems

Rinnai hot water systems are commonly compared across electric, gas, instant gas and heat pump hot water categories. Rinnai may be worth reviewing if you are comparing multiple hot water system types.

When comparing Rinnai electric hot water, check capacity, household suitability, product dimensions and connection requirements.

Dux Electric Hot Water Systems

Dux hot water systems are commonly considered for electric storage replacements and household hot water needs. Dux may suit buyers looking for practical electric storage options.

When comparing Dux electric systems, check the tank size, recovery rate, pressure rating and product specifications.

Vulcan Electric Hot Water Systems

Vulcan hot water systems are commonly compared for practical electric and gas storage hot water options. Vulcan may be worth reviewing for straightforward replacement projects.

When comparing Vulcan electric hot water, check size, dimensions, connection positions and warranty information.

Stiebel Eltron Electric Hot Water Systems

Stiebel Eltron hot water systems are often compared by buyers looking at electric and heat pump hot water options.

When comparing Stiebel Eltron options, check the intended application, size, power requirements and product specifications.

Electric Hot Water System Replacement Guide

If you are replacing an old electric hot water system, start by checking the data plate on the current unit. This can help identify the existing model, size and key specifications.

Look for:

• Brand

• Model number

• Tank capacity

• Pressure rating

• Power rating

• Manufacturing date

• Indoor or outdoor suitability

• Connection positions

• Existing location

• Dimensions

This information makes it easier to compare new electric hot water systems and avoid ordering a unit that does not suit the setup.

When Should You Replace an Electric Hot Water System?

You may need to consider replacement if:

• The tank is leaking

• The system is old and unreliable

• Hot water runs out faster than it used to

• The system no longer suits the household

• Water from hot taps appears rusty

• The system makes unusual noises

• Repair costs are becoming uneconomical

• You are renovating and need a better-suited unit

• The current system is too small or too large

Not every hot water issue means the whole system needs replacement. Some problems may relate to valves, thermostats, elements or other parts. If you are unsure, speak with a licensed plumber or electrician before ordering.

Electric Hot Water Parts and Accessories

An electric hot water order may need more than the main tank. Depending on the replacement setup, pressure requirements and connection layout, extra parts may be needed.

Common items to check include:

• Tempering valves

• Pressure relief valves

• Duo valves

• Non-return valves

• Isolation valves

• Thermostats

• Elements

• Pipework

• Fittings

• Connection accessories

Hot Water Outlet has a dedicated range of valves, pipework and fittings to help customers compare common hot water accessories.

Always confirm compatibility before ordering. Plumbing and electrical work should be handled by appropriately licensed tradespeople.

Electric Hot Water Pros and Cons

Potential Advantages of Electric Hot Water

Electric hot water systems can be a practical choice for many homes, especially where electric storage is already installed.

Potential advantages include:

• Familiar storage tank design

• Wide range of sizes

• Suitable for homes without gas

• Practical for like-for-like electric replacement

• Available from recognised brands

• Easy to compare by tank capacity and specifications

• Can suit homes, units, townhouses and rentals

Potential Disadvantages of Electric Hot Water

Electric storage is not always the best option for every home.

Potential disadvantages include:

• Tank size must be matched carefully

• A small tank may run out quickly

• A large tank may be more than the household needs

• Recovery rate varies by model

• The unit still needs enough physical space

• Power requirements must be checked

• Heat pump may be worth comparing for energy-efficient electric hot water

The best way to compare electric hot water is to consider the whole setup, not just the purchase price.

Electric Hot Water vs Gas Hot Water

Electric and gas hot water systems suit different homes. The best choice often depends on what the property already has.

Electric hot water may suit homes without gas or homes already set up for electric storage. Gas hot water systems may suit properties with natural gas or LPG.

If your home already has electric storage and no gas, electric hot water may be the most practical starting point. If your home already has gas, compare gas storage and instant gas hot water systems before deciding.

Electric Hot Water vs Instant Gas Hot Water

Electric storage and instant gas hot water are very different system types.

Electric storage keeps hot water in a tank. Instant gas heats water as it flows through the unit. Electric storage is measured by tank capacity, while instant gas is measured by flow rate in L/min.

If you are switching between system types, check the property requirements carefully and speak with licensed tradespeople where needed.

What to Check Before Buying an Electric Hot Water System

1. Tank Capacity

Tank capacity is one of the most important details. Choose a size that suits the household’s daily hot water use.

2. Recovery Rate

Recovery rate affects how quickly the system can heat more water after use. This can matter in homes with heavier demand.

3. Dimensions

Always compare the product dimensions with the available space. A system with the right capacity still needs to physically fit.

4. Connection Positions

Hot and cold water connection positions can vary between models. Check the current setup and compare it with the new unit.

5. Power Requirements

Electric hot water systems have specific electrical requirements. Confirm the product specifications before ordering.

6. Pressure Rating

Check the system’s pressure rating and make sure any required valves or accessories are suitable.

7. Indoor or Outdoor Suitability

Not every system is suitable for every location. Check whether the selected model suits the intended position.

8. Brand and Warranty Information

Compare brand, model and warranty information, but do not choose by brand alone.

9. Required Valves and Fittings

Some electric hot water replacements need extra valves, fittings or pipework. Check the full order before purchasing.

10. Delivery Access

Make sure the system can be delivered safely and that the product size suits access at the property.

Common Mistakes When Buying Electric Hot Water

Choosing the Cheapest Unit Only

A cheaper electric hot water system is not good value if it does not suit the home, tank size needs or connection layout.

Buying the Wrong Size

An undersized tank may run out quickly. An oversized tank may cost more than needed. Match the size to household demand.

Not Checking Dimensions

Capacity and dimensions are different. A system may have the right litre size but still not fit the available space.

Ignoring Connection Positions

Connection positions can affect replacement suitability. Always compare the existing setup with the new product specifications.

Forgetting Recovery Rate

Tank capacity matters, but recovery rate also affects performance. This is especially important for homes with heavier use.

Forgetting Valves and Fittings

Hot water systems often need compatible valves and connection accessories. Check valves, pipework and fittings if you are building a complete order.

Not Comparing Heat Pump Alternatives

If you are replacing old electric storage, it may be worth comparing heat pump hot water systems as an efficient electric option, provided your home has a suitable location.

Electric Hot Water Buyer Checklist

Before ordering an electric hot water system online, check:

• Current system type

• Current brand and model

• Current tank capacity

• Household size

• Number of bathrooms

• Daily hot water demand

• Tank size required

• Recovery rate

• Dimensions

• Connection positions

• Pressure rating

• Indoor or outdoor suitability

• Power requirements

• Required valves

• Required fittings

• Delivery access

• Warranty information

• Product specifications

Are Electric Hot Water Systems Worth It?

Electric hot water systems can be worth it when they suit the home, especially where the property already uses electric storage and the household wants a practical replacement option.

Electric storage may be a good fit if:

• The home has no gas supply

• The current system is electric

• The existing tank size works well

• The household wants a storage system

• A like-for-like replacement is preferred

• The available space suits the selected unit

However, electric storage is not the only option. If energy efficiency is a priority and the property has suitable outdoor space, compare heat pump hot water systems. If the property has natural gas or LPG, compare gas hot water systems and instant gas hot water systems.

Compare Electric Hot Water Systems Online

Hot Water Outlet makes it easier to compare electric hot water systems online by size, brand, household suitability and product specifications. You can also compare electric storage against heat pump, gas, instant gas and instant electric options if you are still deciding which system type suits your home.

Start with:

• Electric Hot Water Systems

• Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

• Hot Water Systems

• Instant Electric Hot Water Systems

• Valves, Pipework and Fittings

FAQs About Electric Hot Water Systems

What is the best electric hot water system in Australia?

The best electric hot water system is the one that suits your household size, tank capacity needs, available space, connection positions, power requirements and replacement setup. Compare brand, dimensions, recovery rate, pressure rating and product specifications before ordering.

What size electric hot water system do I need?

The right size depends on the number of people in the home, number of bathrooms, shower habits, bath use, kitchen use, laundry use and whether the current system runs out. Electric storage systems are usually compared by tank capacity in litres.

Is electric hot water good for a family home?

Electric hot water can suit a family home if the tank capacity and recovery rate match the household’s demand. Larger families should compare medium to larger storage tanks and check whether the current system has been keeping up.

Is electric hot water cheaper than gas hot water?

Costs can vary depending on product size, energy prices, usage and the home’s existing setup. Electric hot water may be practical where there is no gas or where an electric storage tank is already installed. Gas may suit homes already connected to natural gas or LPG.

Should I replace electric hot water with a heat pump?

A heat pump may be worth comparing if you want an efficient electric storage option and the property has suitable outdoor space and airflow. Standard electric storage may still be practical for a straightforward like-for-like replacement.

Can I replace my old electric hot water system with the same size?

You may be able to replace with the same size if the old system worked well and household demand has not changed. If the old system often ran out, compare larger tanks or alternative system types before ordering.

What is the difference between electric storage and instant electric hot water?

Electric storage systems heat and store water in a tank. Instant electric systems heat water as it passes through the unit and are usually suited to specific point-of-use applications. They are not sized or used in the same way.

Do electric hot water systems need valves and fittings?

Some electric hot water systems may require valves, pipework or fittings depending on the replacement setup, pressure requirements and product specifications. Browse valves, pipework and fittings and confirm compatibility before ordering.

Can I install an electric hot water system myself?

No. Hot water systems involve plumbing and electrical work that should be completed by appropriately licensed tradespeople. Hot Water Outlet sells supply-only hot water systems and accessories online, and may help organise quotes from reputable installers where appropriate.

What should I check before buying an electric hot water system online?

Before buying online, check the system type, tank capacity, dimensions, power requirements, pressure rating, recovery rate, connection positions, indoor or outdoor suitability, required valves, delivery access, warranty information and product specifications.

Find the Best Electric Hot Water System for Your Home

The best electric hot water system is the one that suits your household demand, tank size needs, available space and replacement setup. Before ordering, compare capacity, recovery rate, dimensions, pressure rating, power requirements, connection positions, brand and required accessories.

Browse electric hot water systems online with Hot Water Outlet to compare trusted brands, or explore the full hot water systems range if you are still deciding between electric, heat pump, gas, instant gas and instant electric hot water.