Hot water is one of those everyday essentials we rarely think about—until something goes wrong. Whether it’s a relaxing shower, clean dishes, or daily commercial operations, hot water plays a vital role in both homes and businesses across South Australia.
But here’s something most people don’t realise: heating water can account for up to 21% of a household’s total energy use—making it one of the biggest contributors to utility bills. And it’s not just about money. Poorly maintained hot water systems can also be breeding grounds for bacteria like Legionella, which thrives in warm, stagnant water and can pose serious health risks.
So, how can you keep your hot water system running efficiently, safely, and affordably? Let’s take a look at a few key strategies.
Many hot water systems come with thermostats that allow for manual adjustment. Lowering the temperature—even by just a few degrees—can lead to significant energy savings over time.
However, the type of system you have will influence how you manage the settings:
Storage Water Heaters: Should be set to at least 60°C to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria.
Continuous Flow Systems: Can run at lower temperatures, as water is not stored, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.
While it may be tempting to make these adjustments yourself, hot water systems can be complex and potentially dangerous to tamper with. It’s best to engage a professional for safe and effective changes.
Heat loss doesn’t just occur at the tank—it happens as hot water travels through pipes. Poor insulation can result in energy losses of up to 3kWh per day, translating to higher energy bills and added wear on your system.
The good news? Pipe insulation is a low-cost, high-impact solution that can often be done yourself using foam sleeves or wraps. For commercial systems or hard-to-access pipes, professional insulation is recommended for optimal results.
If your current system is old, unreliable, or guzzling energy, it may be time to upgrade. Modern hot water systems are designed for efficiency, safety, and longevity—and solar-powered systems lead the pack.
PPS offers solar-powered hot water systems in various configurations, helping households and businesses across South Australia reduce their carbon footprint and save on running costs. These systems are built to last, require minimal maintenance, and are supported by PPS’s expert installation and service team.
Whether you’re looking to reduce energy usage, upgrade your system, test thermostatic mixing valves, or prevent Legionella outbreaks, PPS is the name you can trust. With years of industry experience and a commitment to smart, sustainable plumbing, our team ensures your hot water system is operating at peak performance—every day of the year.
Think hot water, think PPS.