Sizing a continuous flow unit
Continuous flow units are rated in litres per minute. A 16 to 20 litre unit suits a small home or unit with one bathroom. Most family homes with two bathrooms need around 26 litres per minute, so two showers can run at the same time without going cold.
Common faults and error codes
Continuous flow units show an error code when something goes wrong, such as an ignition fault, a flame failure, a fan fault or a temperature sensor problem. Tell us the brand and the code when you call and we can often bring the right part on the first visit.
Gas or electric continuous flow?
Gas continuous flow is the most common type for whole homes. Electric continuous flow units can suit a single bathroom or a unit, but whole-home electric units often need a three-phase power supply, which many houses don't have.
Instantaneous hot water
Instantaneous and continuous flow mean the same thing: the unit heats water as it flows through, with no storage tank. Gas instantaneous units suit most homes, while electric instantaneous units suit single bathrooms, units and point-of-use locations.
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Common questions
Why does my continuous flow hot water go cold when two taps are on?
The unit is probably too small for the flow you're asking of it, or the gas supply isn't large enough to keep up. A larger unit or a gas supply upgrade usually fixes it.
How long do continuous flow hot water systems last?
With normal use, gas continuous flow units commonly last 15 to 20 years because they don't store water in a tank that can corrode.
What size continuous flow unit do I need?
Around 20 litres per minute suits one bathroom, and 26 litres per minute suits most homes with two bathrooms. Larger homes may need a bigger unit or two units linked together.
Sources and further reading
- Business Queensland: hot water systems (temperature control devices on new and replacement systems)
- QBCC: Form 4 notifiable work (installing, replacing or removing a water heater)
- Clean Energy Regulator: solar water heaters and air source heat pumps (STC eligibility)
- Residential Tenancies Authority: emergency and routine repairs
Continuous flow and instantaneous near you
We cover every suburb on the Sunshine Coast and in Noosa. Popular areas include: