If you’re a homeowner on the Gold Coast, you’ll know how important it is to have a reliable hot water system—especially during those chilly winter mornings or after a salty swim at Burleigh. But with so many hot water brands and options out there, it can be tough to know which one’s the right fit for your home and family.
Hot water systems Gold Coast residents can choose from include a wide variety of residential and commercial options, ensuring there’s a solution for every need.
In this blog, we break down the most popular hot water system brands on the Gold Coast, including major brands and leading brands, so you can see what locals are choosing and the pros and cons of each.
Introduction to Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems play a central role in everyday life. Whether it’s for morning showers, doing the dishes, or keeping things clean, having reliable access to hot water is something most of us don’t think twice about—until something goes wrong.
There are a few main types of hot water systems used across the Gold Coast region: gas, electric, and solar. Each one comes with its own set of pros and cons. Gas hot water systems are known for heating water quickly and efficiently, making them a great choice for larger households. Electric hot water systems are easy to install and generally have a lower upfront cost, although they can be more expensive to run depending on your energy plan. Solar systems, on the other hand, use the power of the sun to heat your water—an environmentally friendly option that can lead to significant savings over time, especially in sunny areas like the Gold Coast.
Choosing the right hot water system depends on several factors: the size of your household, your energy usage habits, available space, and your budget. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each system can help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and long-term needs.
Gas Hot Water Systems
Gas hot water systems are a solid choice if you’ve got natural gas connected or are happy using LPG bottles. They’re ideal for families who use a fair bit of hot water, and they usually heat up quickly and efficiently. Gas-powered hot water systems are effective at heating water rapidly, making them an energy efficient solution for larger households. Gas hot water systems heat water faster than electric systems. Let’s take a look at some of the Gold Coast’s most popular gas hot water systems, ones the team at Capital Plumbing maintain, service and install weekly.
RINNAI
Rinnai is one of the best-known names when it comes to hot water in Australia. Their Infinity range is a favourite across the Gold Coast—especially for homes wanting continuous flow (aka never running out of hot water). The Infinity range is one of the most popular instant hot water systems, known for providing hot water on demand. Instantaneous gas hot water units are great for people who use a lot of hot water as you can never run out.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Hot water on demand—no tank means you’ll never run out
- Energy efficient (some models are 6-Star rated)
- Compact units that save space on the side of your house
- Known for reliability and longevity
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to other brands
- Needs regular servicing to keep it running smoothly
- Best suited for homes with consistent hot water needs
If you’ve got a big family and multiple bathrooms, this brand is worth considering. It’s built for Aussie conditions and has great support if anything goes wrong.
RHEEM
Rheem is a household name—literally. You’ll find Rheem systems in all types of homes across the Gold Coast, from older Queenslanders to brand-new builds.
They make both gas storage and gas continuous flow systems, and Rheem is a leading supplier of hot water heaters for Gold Coast homes. Their Stellar gas storage unit is a solid performer with a 5-Star efficiency rating.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Made for Australian conditions
- Great warranty support and customer service
- Well suited for families or busy households
- Can be paired with solar or heat pump options later
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Mid-to-high price range
- Some models take up a fair bit of space
- Storage tanks eventually need replacing
THERMANN
Thermann is a newer name in the game but gaining popularity fast. It’s stocked through Reece Plumbing stores, so it’s easy to find and well-supported as we have 10 Reece Plumbing Stores on the Gold Coast. Thermann is also gaining recognition among electric hot water brands for its affordability and reliability.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Good quality at a more affordable price
- Available in both storage and continuous flow options
- Increasingly popular with tradies and renovators
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Not as established as Rinnai or Rheem
- Fewer premium or high-tech models
- Smaller service network
Thermann’s great for renovators or anyone wanting a reliable gas system without paying top dollar.
Electric Hot Water Systems
Electric hot water systems are still really common, especially in older homes or rentals. They’re easy to install, and if you’re on an off-peak electricity plan, they can be quite cost-effective. When choosing an electric hot water system, a few things are usually considered, such as household size, hot water usage, and budget. Electric hot water systems are often cheaper to buy and install than other hot water systems.
RHEEM (AGAIN!)
Yep, Rheem pops up again here—and for good reason. Their electric storage units are everywhere and come in sizes from 25 litres to over 300 litres.
They also offer heat pump systems like the AmbiPower, which use heat from the air to warm your water (very clever and very energy efficient). Heat pumps use up to 75% less power than a standard electric hot water unit.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Huge range of sizes and styles
- The “Stellar Stainless” model resists rust and suits coastal homes
- Trusted brand with parts and service available almost anywhere
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Heat pumps are more expensive upfront
- Some storage models are a bit bulky
- Can be slower to reheat compared to gas
For households looking for something long-term and low-maintenance, Rheem is a go-to. If you’re looking to upgrade your current system, Rheem offers a wide range of electric options to suit different household needs.
RINNAI (HOTFLO ELECTRIC)
Rinnai’s Hotflo electric range is ideal if you want something compact and reliable. They come in wall-mount or floor-mount options and are great for smaller households or granny flats.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Compact models for tight spaces
- Available in sizes from 25 to 400 litres
- Twin element models heat water faster
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Less efficient if you’re not on an off-peak tariff
- Not as many high-end or heat pump options
Perfect if you’re after a straightforward electric system that gets the job done without fuss. Rinnai Hotflo electric units are also a great choice for replacing an existing system with a more compact and efficient model.
AQUAMAX
Owned by Rheem, Aquamax systems are a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much on quality. You’ll see these a lot in investment properties or smaller homes.
đź‘Ť Pros:
- Cheaper upfront
- Good reliability for the price
- Ideal for small-to-medium households
đź‘Ž Cons:
- Lower efficiency ratings than premium brands
- Not as durable in the long term
- Limited range of advanced features
If you’re on a budget or need a quick replacement system, Aquamax is a solid choice. If you need a new hot water unit installed quickly and affordably, Aquamax is a reliable option.
Hot Water System Installation
Replacing or installing a hot water system is a significant decision for any home. Whether it’s electric, gas, or solar, each type has different installation needs and long-term considerations. The right system depends on your household size, energy usage, and property layout.
While many installations can be done in a day, it’s important the job is handled by a licensed professional to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with Australian standards. A well-installed system means fewer problems down the track and reliable hot water when you need it most.
At Capital Plumbing, we understand the local conditions and system options best suited to Gold Coast homes, helping ensure a smooth and long-lasting results.
Hot Water System Maintenance and Repairs
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your hot water system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. Over time, components like the temperature and pressure relief valve, sacrificial anode, and heating elements can wear down or build up with sediment—especially in areas with hard water. Routine checks help catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs and ensure your system continues to deliver reliable hot water when you need it.
Common warning signs of a problem include fluctuating water temperatures, reduced hot water pressure, unusual noises, or visible leaks around the tank. These can occur in any system type, whether it’s electric, gas, or solar. Addressing them early can help avoid complete breakdowns and extend the working life of your unit.
While some basic upkeep can be done by homeowners, most maintenance tasks—such as flushing the tank, testing valves, or replacing worn parts—should be handled by a licensed plumber familiar with your system’s brand and model. Regular servicing not only improves performance but also ensures your system stays compliant with warranty requirements and Australian safety standards.
Things to Think About Before You Choose
Choosing the right hot water system isn’t just about brand—there are a few other things to keep in mind:
- How many people live in your home? More people = more hot water
- Do you use hot water at different times of day? Instant systems help with staggered showers
- Do you have space for a big tank? Some models take up more room than you think
- Is energy efficiency important to you? If yes, look at solar, heat pumps, or high-star gas units
- What’s your budget? Don’t just look at the purchase price—check the running costs too
Proper installation of cold water components, such as cold water expansion valves and pressure limiting valves, is essential to comply with safety standards and ensure your hot water system operates safely and efficiently.
And don’t forget—local hot water plumbers and hot water system specialists know what works best in our climate, so always ask for advice before locking anything in. Choosing a professional plumber for installation and maintenance ensures your system is set up correctly and meets all safety requirements. Inexperienced plumbers may leave installations that do not meet the required standards, which can void home insurance.
Relying on professional hot water services and scheduling regular hot water service helps guarantee safe, reliable hot water for your next hot shower.
Hot Water Comparison Table
| Feature | Electric Hot Water | Gas Hot Water | Solar Hot Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | Mains electricity (or off-peak tariffs) | Natural gas or LPG | Solar panels with gas or electric booster |
| Upfront Cost | Lowest | Moderate | Highest |
| Running Costs | Higher (unless using off-peak) | Lower than electric | Lowest (after installation) |
| Environmental Impact | Higher emissions (if not using renewables) | Moderate | Lowest carbon footprint |
| Efficiency | Good, but depends on tariff | High – quick heat recovery | Very high, especially in sunny climates |
| Installation Complexity | Simple and fast | Requires gas connection or LPG setup | More complex – needs panels and plumbing integration |
| Lifespan | 8–12 years (depending on model) | 10–15 years | 10–20 years |
| Ideal For | Small to medium households | Families with higher water usage | Environmentally conscious households |
| Backup Needed? | No | No | Yes – electric or gas booster required |
| Performance on Cloudy Days | Unaffected | Unaffected | May rely on booster |
Plumbers Hot Water Picks
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” hot water system, but here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Best for big families: Rinnai Infinity or Rheem Stellar Gas
Best for energy savings: Rheem AmbiPower heat pump
Best budget system: Thermann or Aquamax electric storage
Best for compact homes: Rinnai Hotflo electric or Bosch tankless
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s backed by a solid warranty, and get it installed by a licensed plumber who knows Gold Coast homes inside out. Scheduling regular maintenance can keep your system running efficiently, prolong its lifespan, and reduce unexpected repairs. Prompt hot water repairs and timely replacement of your old hot water unit can help maintain a reliable hot water supply.
Need assistance with your hot water?
For all gas and electric hot water inspections, maintenance repairs and installation, the experienced team at Capital Plumbing are ready to assist day and night. Call our friendly team today.
