Best Electric Hot Water Systems in 2024: Reliable Choices for Australian Homes

Electric hot water systems are still one of the most common choices for Australian homes, especially where the property already has an electric storage unit and the owner wants a straightforward replacement.

While heat pumps are becoming more popular for energy efficiency, standard electric storage hot water systems still make sense for many households. They are familiar, widely available, relatively simple to replace, and available in a wide range of sizes from small units through to larger family systems.

This guide compares the best electric hot water systems for 2024, explains what matters before choosing one, and helps you decide whether electric storage, heat pump, gas or solar hot water is the right fit for your home.

Quick answer

The best electric hot water system for 2024 depends on household size, budget, installation location, tank material, tariff setup and how much hot water your home uses each day.

For many larger family homes, the Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel Electric Hot Water System is one of the strongest premium choices, with JR Gas & Water listing it for larger families of up to 4, a stainless steel tank and 12-year factory warranty. (JR Gas and Water) For homes needing more capacity, the Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element Electric Hot Water System is listed for larger families of up to 7, also with a stainless steel tank and 12-year factory warranty. 

If you are replacing an old electric system, JR Gas & Water can help compare electric hot water systems, heat pump hot water systems, hot water repairs and servicing, and other hot water system options.

What is an electric hot water system?

An electric hot water system uses an electric heating element to heat water stored inside a tank. When hot water is used, the tank refills with cold water and reheats.

Most homes with standard electric storage hot water use a tank system rather than an instant electric system. Electric storage systems are popular because they are simple, proven and available in many capacities.

Electric storage hot water can suit:

• homes already using electric storage hot water

• straightforward like-for-like replacements

• smaller homes, townhouses and family homes

• properties without natural gas

• rentals needing a practical replacement

• homes using off-peak tariffs

• homes adding timers or smart relays

• situations where heat pump placement is not ideal

It may not suit:

• homes wanting the lowest possible running costs

• households trying to reduce electricity use

• properties better suited to heat pump hot water

• homes with solar PV where a smart heat pump may be better

• households with very high hot water demand and undersized electrical supply

• locations where the existing system needs major electrical upgrades

Electric storage can be a good choice, but it should still be compared against heat pump hot water before replacing an old system automatically.

Best electric hot water systems for 2024

Best Premium Electric Storage System: Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel

The Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel Electric Hot Water System is one of the strongest choices for homeowners who want a premium electric storage system from a major hot water brand.

Best for

• family homes

• customers wanting stainless steel cylinder construction

• homes replacing an older 250L electric storage system

• owners wanting a premium standard electric option

• households where a heat pump is not preferred

• Brisbane and Gold Coast homes wanting a reliable electric replacement

Why it ranks highly

The Rheem Stellar 250L stands out because it combines a practical family-size capacity with stainless steel cylinder construction and a major-brand warranty. JR Gas & Water lists this model as built for Australian homes, with a stainless steel tank and 12-year factory warranty. (JR Gas and Water)

It is a strong option for homeowners who want standard electric storage rather than heat pump, but still want a quality system rather than the cheapest steel-cylinder option.

Things to consider

Stainless steel systems usually cost more upfront than standard steel enamel electric systems. For some homes, that extra spend is worth it. For others, a steel enamel model or heat pump may offer better overall value.

Best Large-Family Electric Option: Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element

The Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element Electric Hot Water System is a better fit for larger households that need more stored hot water.

Best for

• larger families

• homes with multiple bathrooms

• households with higher shower demand

• customers wanting a premium stainless steel tank

• homes needing more than a standard 250L system

• properties where dual element recovery is useful

Why it ranks highly

Capacity matters. If your current electric hot water system runs out during busy morning or evening periods, increasing storage size may be more important than simply replacing with the same tank size.

JR Gas & Water lists the Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element as built for larger families of up to 7, with a stainless steel tank and 12-year factory warranty.

Things to consider

A larger tank needs suitable space, support, pipework, electrical setup and installation access. It may also cost more to run if the household does not need that much stored hot water.

Best Mainstream Family Electric System: Rheem 250L Twin Element Steel Enamel

The Rheem 250L Twin Element Electric Hot Water System is a practical mainstream option for larger families wanting a proven electric storage system without necessarily choosing stainless steel.

Best for

• family homes

• electric storage replacements

• households wanting Rheem brand support

• larger families of up to 6

• homes needing twin element recovery

• customers wanting steel enamel value

Why it ranks highly

This model gives homeowners a familiar electric storage setup with a strong household capacity and twin element configuration.

JR Gas & Water lists the Rheem 250L Twin Element system as built for larger families of up to 6, featuring a steel enamel tank and 12-year factory warranty. (JR Gas and Water)

Things to consider

Steel enamel tanks are common and practical, but they are different from stainless steel systems. The right choice depends on budget, water quality, warranty expectations and whether the home is better suited to a heat pump.

Best Value Electric Replacement: Vulcan 250L Electric

The Vulcan 250L Electric Hot Water System is a sensible value option for homeowners who want a practical electric storage replacement.

Best for

• budget-conscious homeowners

• rental properties

• straightforward 250L replacements

• smaller to medium family homes

• owners wanting practical performance

• homes where premium stainless steel is not required

Why it ranks highly

Vulcan is often chosen as a straightforward replacement brand. JR Gas & Water lists the Vulcan 250L Electric as built for larger families of up to 4–5, with a steel tank and 10-year factory warranty.

It can be a smart option when the goal is reliable hot water without premium pricing.

Things to consider

The Vulcan 250L may not offer the same premium positioning as Rheem Stellar stainless steel systems. It is best judged as a practical value replacement rather than a top-tier premium unit.

Best Alternative Family Option: Everhot 250L Stainless Steel

The Everhot 250L Electric Hot Water System is another option for households wanting a stainless steel electric storage system.

Best for

• 4–5 person homes

• electric storage replacements

• customers comparing stainless steel options

• owners wanting Australian-made systems

• homes wanting a 250L family-size tank

Why it ranks highly

JR Gas & Water lists the Everhot 250L as built for larger families of up to 4–5, with a stainless steel tank and 10-year factory warranty.

It is worth comparing against Rheem Stellar where the customer wants stainless steel construction but is also comparing installed value.

Things to consider

Brand preference, warranty terms, current availability and installation package inclusions should all be compared before choosing.

Best Larger Household Value Option: Everhot 315L Electric

The Everhot 315L Electric Hot Water System can suit larger households needing more stored hot water than a standard 250L system.

Best for

• larger households

• 4–7 person homes depending on usage

• homes with higher hot water demand

• families wanting more storage capacity

• customers comparing larger electric systems

Why it ranks highly

JR Gas & Water lists the Everhot 315L electric hot water system as suitable for larger families of up to 6–7, with a steel tank and 10-year factory warranty. (JR Gas and Water)

It can be a practical choice where the priority is capacity rather than moving to a heat pump.

Things to consider

A larger electric storage system may solve running-out issues, but it may not be the most energy-efficient option. If running costs are a major concern, compare larger electric storage against heat pump hot water.

Quick comparison: 2024 electric hot water picks

What size electric hot water system do you need?

Size is one of the most important decisions when choosing electric storage hot water.

A system that is too small can run out during peak times. A system that is too large can cost more upfront and may use more energy than needed.

General guide

• 50L to 80L can suit small units, granny flats or single-person use

• 125L to 160L can suit smaller households

• 250L can suit many family homes

• 315L can suit larger families or higher-use homes

• 400L may suit very large households or special situations

The right size depends on:

• number of people in the home

• number of bathrooms

• shower length

• morning and evening usage patterns

• laundry and kitchen use

• whether multiple showers run close together

• whether the current system runs out

• whether the home uses off-peak electricity

• whether solar PV or timers are being used

If your current electric system runs out often, replacing it with the same size may not fix the problem.

Electric storage vs heat pump hot water

This is the most important comparison for many homeowners.

A standard electric storage system uses an element to heat water directly. A heat pump hot water system uses electricity and ambient air to heat stored water more efficiently.

Electric storage may suit you if:

• you want a straightforward like-for-like replacement

• upfront cost matters

• installation space is limited

• the home already has electric storage

• the system is needed quickly

• noise is a concern

• heat pump placement is not suitable

Heat pump hot water may suit you if:

• you want lower running costs

• you have solar PV

• you want a more efficient stored hot water system

• the home has suitable outdoor space

• you are replacing an old electric storage unit

• long-term efficiency matters more than lowest upfront cost

For many Brisbane and Gold Coast homes, heat pumps are worth comparing before installing another standard electric tank.

Electric storage vs gas hot water

Electric storage may also be compared with gas hot water systems.

Electric storage may suit if:

• the home does not have gas

• the existing system is electric

• you want simple replacement

• the switch to gas would require major work

• you are using off-peak power or timers

Gas hot water may suit if:

• the home already has natural gas or LPG

• you want continuous flow hot water

• the property has suitable gas pipework

• you are replacing an existing gas system

• you prefer gas hot water performance

If the home already has gas infrastructure, compare gas storage hot water systems and instant gas hot water systems before deciding.

Key factors to compare before buying

1. Tank material

Electric storage tanks are commonly steel enamel or stainless steel.

Steel enamel tanks

Steel enamel systems are common, practical and usually more affordable. They often use sacrificial anodes to help protect the tank.

Stainless steel tanks

Stainless steel systems are often positioned as premium options. They can be lighter and may suit customers wanting a higher-end electric storage system.

The right choice depends on budget, water quality, warranty and how long you plan to keep the property.

2. Capacity

Capacity should match household demand.

For many family homes, 250L is a common size. Larger families may need 315L or more. Smaller homes may not need such a large tank.

3. Single element vs twin element

Some electric systems use one heating element, while others use two.

Twin element systems can improve recovery and may suit larger households, but they need the right electrical setup and tariff consideration.

4. Tariff and timer setup

Electric hot water running costs can depend heavily on how and when the system heats.

Options may include:

• off-peak tariff

• controlled load

• timer

• smart relay

• solar diverter

• standard continuous supply

JR Gas & Water’s electric hot water collection notes options such as hot water timers, smart relays and solar-related controllers, which may help some households better manage hot water energy use.

5. Installation package

An electric hot water replacement may be simple or complex.

Installation can be affected by:

• existing unit location

• indoor or outdoor installation

• pipework

• valves

• drainage

• electrical connection

• support base

• access

• relocation

• compliance upgrades

• old system removal

JR Gas & Water’s electric hot water system pages describe package options for basic like-for-like replacements through to upgrades involving new valves, pipework, support base, disposal, electrical extensions, RCBO safety switches, new circuits and relocation work. (JR Gas and Water)

6. Warranty

Warranty matters, but it should be read carefully.

Compare:

• cylinder warranty

• parts warranty

• labour warranty

• water quality conditions

• anode requirements

• installation requirements

• manufacturer warranty exclusions

A long cylinder warranty does not always mean every component is covered for the same period.

Brisbane and Gold Coast installation considerations

Electric hot water systems are common across Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, Moreton Bay and the Gold Coast.

Local installation conditions can vary depending on home age, access, previous system type and whether the unit is installed inside, outside, in a garage, under a stairwell or in a tight service area.

Common local factors include:

• older electric storage systems with outdated valves

• high water pressure requiring control

• poor drainage around external units

• rusted bases or unstable supports

• indoor units with limited access

• systems needing relocation outside

• older switchboards affecting electrical upgrades

• homes adding timers or smart relays

• solar PV homes comparing heat pumps

• rental properties needing practical replacements

This is why choosing the system and installation package together matters. A good electric hot water system can still be the wrong choice if the size, electrical setup or installation location is not suitable.

What can go wrong if the wrong system is chosen?

Choosing the wrong electric hot water system can create avoidable problems.

Common issues include:

• running out of hot water

• slow recovery

• high electricity bills

• choosing a tank that is too large

• choosing a tank that is too small

• poor fit in the existing location

• drainage problems

• repeated valve issues

• non-compliant installation

• electrical upgrades needed after ordering

• replacing standard electric when a heat pump would have been better

These issues are usually easier to avoid when the system is matched to household demand and site conditions before booking.

What you can check before booking

Before requesting a quote or ordering a replacement, gather a few details.

Helpful information includes:

• photos of the current hot water system

• model number and brand

• current tank size

• number of people in the home

• number of bathrooms

• whether hot water runs out

• whether the unit is indoor or outdoor

• whether the home has solar PV

• whether the system is on off-peak or controlled load

• photos of pipework, valves and electrical connection

• access photos

• suburb and property type

These details help JR Gas & Water recommend the right system and package.

Cost factors for electric hot water systems

The installed cost of an electric hot water system depends on the product and site conditions.

Cost can be affected by:

• selected brand and model

• tank size

• steel enamel or stainless steel cylinder

• single or twin element setup

• like-for-like replacement vs relocation

• valve upgrades

• pipework changes

• drainage requirements

• support base

• electrical work

• RCBO or isolator requirements

• old system removal

• access

• urgency

• whether switching from gas, heat pump or solar

For clearer pricing, browse electric hot water systems, check service work pricing, or request a quote for non-standard work.

Maintenance tips for electric hot water systems

Electric storage hot water systems need basic maintenance to stay reliable.

Good maintenance includes:

• checking for leaks around the base

• watching for rusty or discoloured water

• checking for water from relief valves

• keeping the area around the system clear

• arranging professional servicing when needed

• replacing anodes where required

• not ignoring changes in recovery or temperature

• having electrical issues checked by a licensed electrician

• having plumbing valves checked by a licensed plumber

Do not open electrical covers or work on wiring yourself. Electrical and plumbing work should be completed by licensed trades.

When should you repair instead of replace?

Replacement is not always necessary.

Repair may make sense if:

• the system is not too old

• the tank is not leaking

• the fault is minor

• parts are available

• the repair cost is reasonable

• the system still suits the household

Replacement may make sense if:

• the tank is leaking

• the system is very old

• faults keep returning

• hot water runs out often

• the unit is badly corroded

• parts are difficult to source

• energy bills are too high

• a different system type would be better

JR Gas & Water can help with hot water repairs and servicing or replacement advice if your current system is no longer worth repairing.

What JR Gas & Water can help with

JR Gas & Water helps homeowners, landlords, property managers and businesses compare, repair, replace and install hot water systems across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and nearby South East Queensland areas.

Depending on the job, JR Gas & Water can help with:

• electric hot water systems

• Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel Electric Hot Water

• Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element Electric Hot Water

• Rheem 250L Twin Element Electric Hot Water

• Vulcan 250L Electric Hot Water

• heat pump hot water systems

• hot water repairs and servicing

• service work pricing

• replacement advice from photos

• electric storage sizing advice

• custom quotes for non-standard installations

Related JR Gas & Water services

• Electric Hot Water Systems

• Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel Electric Hot Water

• Rheem Stellar 315L Dual Element Electric Hot Water

• Rheem 250L Twin Element Electric Hot Water

• Vulcan 250L Electric Hot Water

• Everhot 250L Electric Hot Water

• Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

• Hot Water Repairs and Servicing

• Gas Storage Hot Water Systems

• Instant Gas Hot Water Systems

• Service Work Pricing

• Request a Quote

FAQs

What is the best electric hot water system in 2024?

For many family homes, the Rheem Stellar 250L Stainless Steel Electric Hot Water System is one of the strongest premium options. For larger households, a 315L system may be more suitable. For budget-conscious replacements, Vulcan and Everhot electric systems are worth comparing.

The best system depends on household size, tank material, installation location, tariff setup and budget.

Is a stainless steel electric hot water system better?

Stainless steel electric hot water systems are often positioned as premium options and can be a good choice for homeowners wanting a higher-end storage tank.

However, steel enamel systems can still be practical and cost-effective. The right choice depends on budget, water quality, warranty expectations and how long you plan to keep the property.

What size electric hot water system do I need for a family?

Many family homes use a 250L electric hot water system. Larger households, homes with multiple bathrooms or families with heavy shower demand may need 315L or more.

The best size depends on number of people, shower habits, laundry use, tariff setup and whether the current system runs out.

Is electric hot water cheaper than heat pump hot water?

Standard electric hot water is often cheaper upfront, but a heat pump can be cheaper to run in many homes because it uses electricity more efficiently.

If long-term running cost is important, compare electric storage with heat pump hot water before choosing.

Can I replace an electric hot water system with a heat pump?

Yes, many homes can replace an old electric storage system with a heat pump, provided the site suits the unit.

The installation needs to consider outdoor space, noise, drainage, electrical requirements, pipework and household demand.

Should I choose single element or twin element electric hot water?

Single element systems can suit many standard homes. Twin element systems can provide better recovery for larger households or high-demand use, but they need the right electrical setup and tariff consideration.

A plumber or installer can help determine what suits the existing installation.

Can I install an electric hot water system myself?

No. Electric hot water systems involve plumbing and electrical work and should be installed by licensed trades.

Incorrect installation can be unsafe, non-compliant and may affect warranty.

Need help choosing the best electric hot water system?

If your old electric hot water system is leaking, unreliable, undersized or due for replacement, JR Gas & Water can help you compare suitable options for your home.

Browse electric hot water systems, compare heat pump hot water systems, or send photos and model details through for a custom recommendation.

Request a quote from JR Gas & Water