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Key points to consider when choosing
a water heating system

  • Water temperatures are consistently called out by industry experts, as the critical foundation for an effective wash routine
  • Water heating can account for over 20% of a dairy farm’s energy consumption.
  • Electric heating systems can be highly inefficient with high energy usage, while not providing their full capacity at maximum temperatures.
  • Electric heaters have long heat times which can severely restrict hot water availability on many dairy farms
  • Each 5°C increase in temperature doubles the wash efficacy.
  • Wash solutions work best at 70 – 80 °C.
  • Rinsing water works best at 20 – 35°C.
  • Lower temperatures reduce efficacy of wash – must compensate for this with more detergent.
  • Wash solutions should not drop below 50°C.
  • Fats/proteins will start to fall out of solution at 50°C.
  • Re sticking will occur.
  • Wash solution must be 75°C minimum at start point of wash cycle (when wash trough is full).
  • Contact time of wash solution with equipment is critical – lower initial temperatures = shorter contact time if 50°C dump temperature is to be achieved.
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Electric Vs LPG

Electric

  • Most thermostats on electric heaters are limited to MAX 75°C.
  • Most electric heaters are pressurised — cold water forces hot water out. As soon as hot water is drawn, the cylinder begins to cool.
  • Do not deliver full capacity at max temperature — yet you have paid to heat it all!
  • Heat time — 7 hours to fully heat.
  • Costly to run. If ran solely on Night rate — majorly limits your hot water availability.

LPG (Liquid Propane Gas):

  • Heats up to 85°C.
  • Heats on demand — every litre heated to same temperature.
  • Heats on demand — only pay to heat the volume of water you use.
  • Heats on demand — no wait time required; no storage required.
  • LPG 12c/KW vs Electricity 18c/KW night rate. Fixed prices available for up to 2 years.
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Our happy clients

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone in your company for fitting my new Bosch Boiler in May. Everyone was so professional. They arrived on time, used plastic covers to save my carpet, answered my questions (even the stupid ones?) and got straight to work. I would highly recommend them.

Maura Wilson

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Our happy clients

We have been using Total Heating & Plumbing to install a new system in our pub. Jimmy did a great job installing the system and we are very happy with the result.

Caitlin NicGiolla

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Our happy clients

I have been really frustrated with previous levels of service I have received from a multitude of plumbing services providers. Finding Total Heating & Plumbing Services has been a godsend. The team there are friendly, punctual, efficient & deliver a high standard of work.

Jack Fullam

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Our happy clients

I am very happy to whole-heartedly recommend their services and I plan to continue to engage Total Heating for all of our plumbing requirements in the future.

Elaine Hartigan | An Post Post Office, Prosperous,

Co. Kildare – SEAI National

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Our happy clients

Recently had THL change our boiler and 11 radiators, I was thoroughly impressed with the team of guys from start to finish. They had the job completed within a few days and were neat and tidy all the way through. I would happily use their services again

Stephen Dunne

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Our happy clients

Great service very professional exactly what I wanted when getting my gas boiler and cylinder installed. Office staff plumbers and electricians all tops.

Roro P

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Our happy clients

Total heating installed new heating system in my house great job ,lads clean my house after the job was completed put my home back to normal thank you Tommy and his crew 👍

Marie Benson

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Our happy clients

This company was extremely professional, got the job done way quicker than I thought possible. My home was left clean and tidy. New heating system is a dream!!

Kellie Canavan

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Frequently asked questions

Why is water temperature so important in dairy farm wash routines?

Water temperature plays a critical role in cleaning efficiency. Industry standards recommend a wash solution starting at 75°C, as every 5°C increase can double wash efficacy. If water is too cold, fats and proteins can re-stick to equipment, reducing hygiene and performance.

What temperature should I aim for during different stages of the cleaning process?

For optimal results:

  • Wash solution: 70–80°C (minimum 75°C at start)

  • Rinse water: 20–35°C

  • Avoid letting wash temperatures drop below 50°C, as this reduces cleaning power and can cause deposits to re-stick.

Are electric water heaters suitable for dairy farms?

Electric heaters can be inefficient for dairy use. They often have long heat-up times and high energy consumption, which can limit hot water availability, especially during peak wash times. Alternative systems may provide better performance and efficiency.

How can I reduce energy costs while maintaining wash effectiveness?

Choosing an efficient water heating system tailored to your farm’s needs is key. Avoiding heat loss, maintaining proper temperatures, and reducing overuse of detergents (which happens when water is too cold) will help cut energy and chemical costs over time.

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See how we can help you?

Slash energy costs with smarter water heating for your dairy farm.
We’ll guide you all the way.