How to find the best continuous flow hot water system

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As much as we use them daily, 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’, ‘on demand hot water systems’ or ‘tankless hot water systems’.

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How do continuous flow hot water systems work?

Most continuous flow hot water systems rely on a similar heating process:

1. 1. Cold water enters the system and passes through a heat exchanger.
   2. When a hot water tap is switched on, a flow sensor detects the water movement and activates the heating element.
   3. As the water flows through the heat exchanger, it is heated instantly and sent to the tap.

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

There are 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 systems, as they do not use 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 on your hot water bill 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
  • Ease of maintenance:  Continuous flow systems typically require less maintenance and repairs than traditional hot water systems with tanks.

What is the best continuous hot water system in Australia?

According to Canstar Blue’s best-rated hot water systems page, Solahart won first place for the ‘Most Satisfied Customer’ award in 2024, earning a perfect five stars for overall satisfaction.

Solahart specialises in the design and manufacture of solar water heaters and solar power systems for residential and commercial use.

Solahart also currently offers a continuous flow hot water system that is compatible with solar water heaters and in-line gas, maintaining an undisturbed flow of hot water on days with less sunlight.

However, the best continuous flow hot water system is the one that is best suited to your personal circumstances, which are not limited to:

1. Size of the continuous flow hot water system
2. Your fuel type preference:
   • Gas
   • Solar
   • Electrical
3. Budgetary constraints (initial costs, running costs)
4. Energy efficiency ratings
5. The number of people using it in your household
6. Warranty
7. Space.

We recommend shopping around for a continuous flow system while considering your unique needs and wants.

Which brands offer continuous flow hot water systems?

Solahart notwithstanding, many providers and brands offer Australian households hot water heaters and continuous flow systems. Here are a few of the more well-known names in Australia.

AquaMAX

Offering two gas models, AquaMAX is a well-known brand and provider of continuous flow models. AquaMax’s products come with high energy ratings and the capability to keep up with high-demand households.

Rinnai

Rinnai brought 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’s Optiflow series could be the make and model 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.

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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 the 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.

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