Continuous-flow (tankless) systems and traditional cylinders each have distinct efficiency profiles that perform differently in our local climate. Rather than storing water, continuous-flow systems heat it on demand, eliminating the standby heat loss that affects traditional cylinders. This makes them up to 30% more efficient in some situations. However, they require more substantial power supplies for instant heating.
Traditional cylinders maintain a steady supply during power fluctuations, while hot water heat pumps offer Wellington homeowners the best overall efficiency by using ambient air heat—which is particularly valuable in our mild climate where they can operate at peak efficiency year-round. The most efficient option depends on your household patterns, existing setups, and whether your priority is lower upfront costs or long-term savings.