Have your system installed by a registered tradesperson, maintain it as required and have it serviced according to the manufacturers instructions.
The thermostat on the water heater should be set to deliver the lowest acceptable temperature " which will lower your running costs and extend your tanks life.
Have your system installed as close as possible to all points of hot water use. If this is not possible, locate it close to where small, regular amounts of hot water are drawn off (usually the kitchen).
Turn off peak rate electric storage systems whenever you can. They can be very expensive to run " up to 3.5 times more than off-peak electric or natural gas systems. Try turning your system off while you are away during the day and also overnight. The water should reheat fully in about 30 minutes after the system is turned on, providing enough hot water when required.
Regularly activate the relief valves and drain cocks fitted to mains pressure storage systems. These are safety mechanisms to ensure that the system does not build up dangerously high levels of pressure inside. You should activate these two valves about once every three months to remove any sediment build-up and to ensure your system operates efficiently.
Keep pipe runs as short as possible to mimimise heat loss from pipes
If buying a gas water heater choose one with a 5 or 6 star energy rating. Check out http://www.energyrating.gov.au for more information.
Insulate hot water pipes, especially the first two metres leading from the hot water system. Closed cell rubber insulation is recommended.
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