We have all heard the term 'off-peak hot water' thrown around, but what does it mean and what does it involve? It is much easier and cheaper to obtain than you think.

Your electric storage hot water system is another name for the tank hot water system connected to your mains water supply heated by an electric element. This is by far the most common hot water system found across Sydney.
 
Another option is to be connected to an off-peak tariff (rate) so the hot water system does not continually operate during the day, subject to a high electricity rate.
 
Instead, electricity supply is made available to your hot water at regulated times (usually overnight when the electricity demand from the network or grid is at its lowest potentially), thus saving you up to 65%.

The process will heat your tank water overnight, making hot water available throughout the day. The temperature of the hot water in stored in the tank usually remains consistent unless excessive hot water is used during the day. In these cases, the tank will need to wait until the next off-peak cycle to heat up again. In the majority of households, the hot water lasts for the period until it is due to be re-heated.

If your home has a high demand for hot water, this option may not be a suitable one, but there are alternative methods available that allow you to take advantage of the off-peak water heating rate structure.
 
There is no need to upgrade your tank or alter your plumbing to benefit from the off-peak tariffs. The process involves minor modifications at your switchboard and the installation of an off-peak meter.