If you’ve ever run out of hot water mid-shower, you’ve probably wondered—how long does it actually take for the hot water to come back? Whether you’ve got an electric, gas, or solar hot water system installed, the time it takes for your water to reheat depends on several factors.
At Safeguard Plumbing, we know how frustrating it can be when you’re stuck waiting for hot water. Let’s break it down with a quick answer followed by a more detailed explanation.
Here’s the Quick Answer
The time it takes for hot water to regenerate depends on your type of water heater:
- Gas storage water heaters: Around 30–40 minutes
- Electric storage water heaters: Around 60–90 minutes
- Solar hot water systems: Varies based on sunlight and booster use
- Instantaneous (tankless) systems: No waiting – hot water is on demand
If your hot water is taking longer than usual to heat up, there might be an issue with your system. Call Safeguard Plumbing on 0416 177 025 for expert advice.
Here’s the Detailed Answer
1. Gas Storage Water Heaters
Gas hot water systems tend to be faster than electric models. They typically take 30–40 minutes to fully heat a tank of water. Gas burners heat the water more quickly, making them a great option for families that use a lot of hot water.
2. Electric Storage Water Heaters
Electric storage water heaters take 60–90 minutes to heat a full tank. They use heating elements rather than gas burners, which is why they take longer. If your system is on an off-peak tariff, it may only heat overnight, meaning you could be left without hot water during the day.
3. Solar Hot Water Systems
Solar hot water systems depend on sunlight, so the regeneration time varies. On sunny days, they can heat water within 2–4 hours. However, if it’s cloudy or overcast, the system may rely on a gas or electric booster, which can take 30–90 minutes, depending on the type of booster.
4. Instantaneous (Tankless) Hot Water Systems
Tankless hot water systems don’t store water, so you don’t need to wait for regeneration. They heat water on demand, meaning you’ll always have hot water—unless there’s an issue with water flow or gas supply.
5. Factors That Can Affect Your Hot Water Regeneration Time
Several things can impact how long your water heater takes to recover, including:
- Tank size – Larger tanks take longer to reheat.
- Water heater age – Older systems lose efficiency over time.
- Sediment buildup – Hard water can cause sediment to accumulate in the tank, slowing down heating.
- Thermostat settings – A lower temperature setting means slower heating.
Need Faster Hot Water? Call Safeguard Plumbing
If your hot water is taking too long to regenerate, or you keep running out, it could be time for a hot water system upgrade or repair. At Safeguard Plumbing, we offer professional hot water services across Sydney, ensuring your system is running efficiently.
Call us today on 0416 177 025 for expert hot water solutions!
