Choosing Your Water Heating System

Choosing a water heating system can be a bit of a complicated process, as there are many choices available. It is important that you consider the range carefully, picking one system that is best suited to your individual needs and comfort. You will also need to weigh the costs against the benefits. For instance, you will need to consider the type of fuel you will be using. It will be more beneficial for you to use a gas heater if you already have a gas pipe to your property, as this will allow you to save on energy costs. However, if you are used to using electric units and this has been your main source of fuel then perhaps an electric water heater will be more suitable.

There will be other factors you will need to consider, such as family circumstances before you make your decision.  You will need to consider your future at the property, and whether or not your family size is likely to increase. You should consider the following:

• What are your long term plans for the property?
• Do you intend to use it as a  family home or will it simply be used as an investment property?
• Are you likely to use large quantities of hot water?

It is important to also select the appropriate size of the water heater as this way you will be able preserve energy. A good alternative would be to purchase a space-saving gas or electric on-demand system in which cold water is heated as needed. This can be quite good as no energy is wasted in keeping the water hot, the unit does not take up much space as it has no storage tank, and you will never run out of hot water. However, if you will be using appliances at the same time, such as a washing machine and a dishwasher, you will need to purchase more than one.

Solar water heater - good alternative?

Another option would be to install  a solar water heater. If you decide to go for this option, you may need to increase your financial budget as the installation and purchase price will be high. On the other hand, it may suit you better in the long run as you may save on operations costs.

If you decide to install a full central heating system, then this is likely to add value to a property irrespective of age. On the other hand,  if you have a small one bedroom apartment, installing an instantaneous heater will be more practical and appropriate. It is beneficial to consider a range of factors before reaching your decision. You will need to consider:

• initial installation costs
• the costs involved in connecting the fuel type to the water heater
• maintenance costs over a period of time 

Generally there are a wide range of heating systems available to suit different needs. It will all depend on your own personal preference, and how much you are willing to spend.

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This page has been written with contributions from qualified plumbers from London and Gas Safe engineers from Shepherds Bush. Several of the company's heating engineers from Kent have worked on similar issues as well as some of our plumbing and heating engineers from South Kensington and our Notting Hill experienced plumbers.

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