Tankless vs Storage Hot Water
A Brisbane-specific comparison to help you choose the right hot water system for your home, budget, and family size.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Tankless (Continuous Flow) | Storage Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $1,400 – $2,800 | $900 – $2,200 ✓ |
| Annual Running Cost | $250 – $450 ✓ | $500 – $800 |
| Lifespan | 15 – 20 years ✓ | 8 – 12 years |
| Hot Water Supply | Unlimited ✓ | Limited by tank size |
| Space Required | Wall-mounted, compact ✓ | Large floor/wall space |
| Installation Time | 3 – 6 hours | 2 – 4 hours ✓ |
| Maintenance | Annual flush recommended | Anode replacement every 5 yrs |
| Best for Brisbane | Families 3+ people | 1–2 people, budget installs |
Real Payback Examples
Family of 4 in Logan
Current: 250L Electric Storage ($750/yr running cost)
Upgrade to: Rinnai Infinity 26 Gas Continuous Flow
Extra cost: $1,500 more upfront
Annual saving: $400/yr saved on energy
Payback period
~3.75 years
Couple in Sunnybank
Current: 125L Electric Storage ($500/yr running cost)
Upgrade to: Rinnai Infinity 16 Gas Continuous Flow
Extra cost: $800 more upfront
Annual saving: $250/yr saved on energy
Payback period
~3.2 years
Large household in Carindale
Current: 315L Electric Storage ($900/yr, runs out)
Upgrade to: Rinnai Infinity 32 Gas Continuous Flow
Extra cost: $2,000 more upfront
Annual saving: $500/yr saved + no cold showers
Payback period
~4 years
* Examples are estimates based on typical Brisbane energy costs. Actual savings depend on usage patterns, tariffs, and gas prices.
Our Recommendations for Brisbane
Best Overall: Rinnai Infinity 26
Ideal for Brisbane families of 3–5 people. Compact, reliable, and backed by a 12-year warranty on heat exchangers. Delivers 26 litres/minute — enough for 2 showers simultaneously.
Best Budget: Vulcan 80L Electric Storage
A dependable choice for units, granny flats, or 1–2 person households. Low upfront cost with straightforward installation. Best for properties without gas.
Best Long-Term Value: Rinnai Infinity 32
For larger Brisbane homes with high hot water demand. Higher flow rate handles multiple bathrooms and won't skip a beat during morning rush hour.