Continuous flow hot water systems explained

Fact Checked

As much as we use them on a daily basis, hot water systems aren’t exactly a topic that comes up in regular conversation.  As handy as they are, having to replace or find a new hot water system can be a real challenge, as companies offer a variety of different types — one being a continuous flow hot water system.

In this Canstar Blue guide, we look at what a continuous flow hot water system is, and how to find the best continuous hot water systems in Australia.

What is a continuous flow hot water system?

A continuous flow hot water system is usually a smaller, wall-mounted unit. Unlike more traditional hot water systems, a continuous flow system heats the water as you use it, rather than maintaining a stored, heated supply.

Because of this, the system provides continuous hot water flow until the shower or the tap being used is turned off. Continuous flow models also work with both gas and electrical systems, meaning that they will suit most households.

Most hot water system providers today will have a continuous flow line, as demand for these smaller units has increased dramatically over recent years. Some providers and brands label their continuous flow models as ‘instantaneous hot water systems’.

Shop hot water systems below

Shop Online

What are the benefits of a continuous flow hot water system?

There’s several reasons why you may prefer switching to a continuous flow or instant hot water system, including:

• Continuous supply of hot water: As water is heated on demand, you won’t need to worry about running out of hot water for the day.
• Energy efficiency: Continuous flow models tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional system, as they’re not using energy to keep a stored hot water supply at the correct temperature.
• Lower ongoing costs: Once your hot water system is installed, it can offer significant potential savings due to the decreased energy consumption.
• Longer lifespan: A good continuous flow hot water system can last more than 20 years, which is around twice as long as a traditional hot water storage system.
• Compact size: Continuous flow systems take up less room than hot water systems which require tanks or roof panels.

Which brands offer continuous flow hot water systems?

While there a number of providers and brands that offer Australian households hot water heaters and continuous flow systems, here are a few of the more well-known names.

AquaMAX

Offering two gas models, AquaMAX is a well-known brand and provider of continuous flow models. With high energy ratings and capable of keeping up with high-demand households, AquaMAX is another option for households.

Rinnai

Rinnai boasts bringing the Australian masses the first fully electric continuous flow system back in the 1990s, making it a leader in the hot water market. Offering 10 models within its continuous flow line, Rinnai offers the largest range for consumers to choose from, with the company looking to make itself your one-stop-shop for all your hot water needs.

Rheem

Rheem has been a mainstay within the hot water market, with the company providing a large variety of continuous flow models for Aussie consumers to choose from. The range features solar, gas and electric storage as well as continuous flow or heat pump options. With most models rating above six stars for energy efficiency, Rheem has been a consumer favourite for years.

Bosch

Offering one of the most technologically advanced models, Bosch has also been a big player within the Australian hot water market for the last few years, with the company operating within Australia since the 1950s. If you’re after a hot water system you can connect via Bluetooth, Bosch could be the brand for you.

Dux

Offering 12 year warranties on its continuous flow models, Dux says it believes in quality for consumers, offering multiple models for Aussie households to choose from. Dux also offers condensing systems, which use a second heat exchanger for better efficiency.

Cut your energy bills with a better electricity plan

Is a continuous flow hot water system the best option for Australians?

A hot water system will be a unique purchase for each household, as water consumption and location will affect which brand and type of system you should buy. The continuous flow model would best suit households with lower usage or fewer people, in order to keep costs down.

Purchasing the continuous flow model will initially cost more than a traditional hot water system, but should mean you’ll spend less on power bills and maintenance costs in future. It’s also ideal for those with limited space, with smaller dimensions and wall-mounting features. It’s up to you to decide if a continuous flow model is worthwhile, but with lower ongoing costs and higher efficiency levels, it will be tough to choose otherwise.

Compare Hot Water Systems