Confused About Hot Water Systems? – Continuous Flow

Welcome to another edition to the ‘Confused’ series, where we do our best to explain the different elements of all things hot water for people who feel a bit out of their depth when it comes to hot water systems.

Another one of the more popular choices in hot water systems these days is the continuous flow system, sometimes referred to as an infinity system or a instant gas hot water system.

A continuous flow system can be used in a residential or commercial setting and unique in the fact that they only produce hot water when you need it. This results in low operating costs and very high energy efficiency.

So how does it work?

A continuous flow system differs from the traditional hot water systems – that store a set amount of hot, water waiting for it to be used – by heating water on demand as it passes through the unit.

Once a hot water tap is turned on within the residence, cold water will enter the continuous flow system. The new water entering the unit triggers a sensor that alerts the control panel to ignite the burner within the system. The new water then travels through the heat exchanger, which is now being heated up by the burner, and is heated to the desired temperature and then sent out of the unit to the hot water tap.

When the tap is turned off and hot water is no longer required, the unit will shut down.

So this is a very popular choice nowadays because of the amazing energy efficiency and on demand nature of the technology. So there is no wonder why its now one of the most popular hot water systems in Australia to be installed, when so many households are now worrying more then ever about their energy bills, this system will definitely help your energy consumption and hopefully lower those bills.

The Disadvantages of the Continuous Flow System

One of the downsides of the continuous flow systems is that the upfront cost is usually a lot higher then other hot water systems, this can be the biggest drawback for some people when looking for a hot water system that suits them.

But when you weigh this against the benefits for the continuous flow, you can make your own decision on if this is worth it for you and your residence or business.

What one is right for me?

Continuous flow systems come in a variety of different sizes depending on a lot of things, the number of people in your household, the size of the residence or even if you have a particularly high demand for hot water.