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Why Install Decentralised Hot Water Systems in Your New Apartment Block?

Tua Fuga • 5 February 2021

If you're building a new apartment block, then you have to find the best way to get utilities into each apartment. When it comes to hot water systems, you might have to choose between a centralised or decentralised system.

While many blocks use a central hot water system, a decentralised option has some advantages. How does this system work and what are its benefits?

What is a decentralised hot water system?

If you opt for a centralised hot water system, then you install one commercial unit in the building. This system then services all your apartments by piping hot water to them.

If you take a decentralised approach, then you simply put a hot water unit into each apartment. These units typically supply instantaneous hot water rather than relying on a storage tank. So, each owner or tenant has their own dedicated supply.

Why choose a decentralised solution?

While a centralised system has benefits, a decentralised solution might give you more advantages both during and after the build.

Simplify your build

If you install a central system that pipes hot water through the building, then you might have extra work to do. You'll have to design the system so that it supplies all apartments at the right service levels.

The installation process might take longer than you think, as you'll also have to factor the system's piping structure into your plans. You have to install the centralised unit and set up a network of pipes and connections throughout the building. You then have to connect up to each apartment; you won't always have a quick and direct path to every apartment from the main unit.

Plus, you'll need a metering system to monitor each apartment's usage.

If you have a complex build, then your materials and labour costs will increase. The longer the job takes, the more it will cost you.

If you go for a decentralised approach, then you simply put a domestic instantaneous hot water unit into every apartment. You don't need the same level of connections. You get a quicker build.

Reduce space constraints

Commercial water heating systems typically need a fair amount of space. You'll have to build a plant room or secure area for the main unit. This reduces the space you have to work with in the building.

So, you might have to shave space off some or all your apartments or communal areas. Your apartment designs might need to change to accommodate the location of the system's connections.

If you install a separate hot water unit in each apartment, then you maximise your available space. An instantaneous system doesn't take up much room, so your owners or tenants won't lose too much space either.

Make your apartments more appealing

Potential tenants or owners might not be happy to share a hot water supply with each other. While you can give them individual meters, they might have to pay additional costs because of the way a centralised system works.

These systems have to work harder to provide hot water throughout the building. You lose some energy if the water has to travel for a longer distance; people might have to run taps for a while before the water runs hot. The system uses more water, which increases running costs.

Some people prefer to have control over their own hot water. They just want to pay for the water they use. If you give them their own units, they have this control. A decentralised system also reduces water and energy waste, which appeals to people looking to move into a building with a greener footprint.

For more advice on the best hot water solution for your building, contact S. P. K Plumbing & Civil. As well as helping you choose and install the right water heating system for your project, we also offer a full range of plumbing services, from design to implementation.

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Should You Choose a Gas or Electric Instantaneous Hot Water System?

by Yellow SEO • 18 December 2020

If your home needs a new hot water system, an instantaneous water heater can be an excellent investment. These unique water heaters can provide hot water moments after you activate a hot tap or shower. However, if you do choose an instantaneous hot water system for your home, you will need to decide whether you want an electric or gas-fired system. Each type of heater comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, so familiarising yourself with these pros and cons in advance can help you make an informed decision. Gas instantaneous water heaters Gas instantaneous hot water systems receive power from natural gas or propane and are suitable for larger homes with substantial hot water requirements. Many gas-fired systems can provide several gallons-per-minute of hot water, making them an excellent choice for larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms or kitchens. Gas instantaneous water heaters may also be the best choice if you are concerned about running costs. If your home connects to a natural gas pipeline, a gas heater will usually be significantly cheaper to run than an electric equivalent. Bear in mind that natural gas prices can vary from place to place, so you should check natural gas prices in your area before choosing a gas model for economic reasons. However, you might have a price to pay for low running costs and large amounts of hot water on demand. Gas instantaneous water heaters are a lot more mechanically complex than their electric counterparts and will usually cost more to purchase and install. They will pay for themselves over time with their low running costs and may represent a better long-term investment for your home. Gas-powered systems also often require more maintenance than electric models, and you will need to install vent pipes to prevent dangerous combustion by-products (such as carbon monoxide) from leaking into your home. These vent pipes will also need maintaining and periodical checking for leaks. Electric instantaneous water heaters While electric instantaneous hot water systems are often not as powerful as gas-powered systems, modern electric models can still provide enough hot water for most households. They do not require any venting, and the heaters themselves are more compact than gas-fired models, so electric instantaneous water heaters may be the better choice for smaller homes and apartments. Electric instantaneous hot water systems may also be more suitable for environmentally conscious homeowners. While electric hot water systems are not as powerful as gas-powered water heaters, they use their power much more efficiently and will put a smaller dent in your home's overall energy efficiency rating. They are less expensive to purchase and install than gas heaters and can be a better choice if you need to replace your existing heater on a tight budget. Under certain circumstances, they can also be more cost-effective to run. If you choose a gas water heater for a home that lacks a natural gas connection, you will have to rely on propane, which can be much more expensive (especially if your home lacks an on-site propane storage tank). However, the cost of installing an electric instantaneous hot water heater can skyrocket if you live in an older home with dated electrical infrastructure. An electric instantaneous heater will require at least 100 amps of electric power to run properly, and Wollongong's relatively cool winter climate can increase electrical demands even more. If your home's existing electrics cannot handle this added power draw, they will need upgrading from a professional electrical contractor. This can be an expensive project and may make installing an electric system more costly than choosing a gas-fired system instead. You have many reasons to choose either type of instantaneous hot water system. If you need any more advice on which type of instantaneous hot water system is best for your home and circumstances, contact the water heater professionals at S. P. K Plumbing & Civil for expert advice and recommendations.