Which is better gas or electric hot water?

Electric hot water systems, heat pumps, solar hot water systems, gas hot water systems, instantaneous heating systems, continuous flow… It reads like a list of milk varieties! Given that heating water can add up to 25% of the household energy costs it is important to get the right system that suits your home, family and lifestyle.

Before asking yourself which one is right for you, there are a few things to consider:

What energy/heat source is available
What type of hot water service (storage or continuous flow/instantaneous)
How many people will be using it and what for
How much space is available
What the climate is like
How energy efficient the hot water service will be (reducing greenhouse gas emissions and cost less to run)
Cost for installation and ongoing running expenses

Below are the types of hot water systems depending on the energy source available.

Electric hot water systems

Electric hot water systems have been popular for years, however in an attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions government legislation has regulated against the use of energy intensive electric hot water systems. However, there are many options available for electric hot water systems that are much more energy efficient.

The electric hot water system heats water up with an electrical element and stores the water to be used. The hot water is available in an instant until the tank runs out and then needs to be filled and reheated. This can be expensive as it is running all the time but there are off-peak systems available that make this more cost efficient (if off-peak electricity is available in your area).

Installation is outdoors and generally cheaper, however, the running costs can be higher.

Check out the benefits of an electric water heater .

Electric heat pump

These hot water systems work like a reverse cycle air conditioner or a refrigerator in reverse by taking the heat from the outside air temperature as the heat source. Electric heat pumps can be very energy efficient and work well in warm climates. With that said, there are pumps available for cold climates also. Heat pumps require a storage tank for the water and can be noisy.

Installation is outdoors and requires quite a bit of space, the cost is higher initially but much cheaper running costs. There may be some rebates available so check out yourenergysavings.gov.au/rebates

Check out the benefits of electric heat pumps .

Gas hot water system

This is similar to the electric hot water system except the heat source is a gas element, which can come from natural gas or LPG. This makes them generally more cost effective than their electric counterparts. There is no off-peak time limit, however, you need to think about the availability of natural gas or LPG.

The installation of a gas hot water system is outdoors and may initially cost a little more but the running costs are cheaper. Usually, gas hot water systems take up less room than electric and it is worth noting if you are building, decide what hot water system you want before getting your gas pipes installed.

Check out the benefits of gas hot water tanks

OK now for the storage system!

Storage tanks

Generally, tanks vary in size depending on how much water needs to be stored. The hot water will be delivered in an instant while there is enough in the tank. The tanks are insulated however there is still some loss of heat.

Continuous flow, instantaneous or tankless hot water systems

As the name implies the water is heated instantaneously which can be very efficient as the water is only heated when it is getting used. The other advantage is you won’t run out of hot water. Even though these systems are called instantaneous there can be a slight delay depending on where the location of the unit is and the water needs to be heated. Generally, continuous flow uses a gas heat source but there are electrical options available.

Which is hot water system is best for your home?

Working out what you need your hot water system for and how it will function in your home will help make the decision easier. Have a chat to one of our friendly and experienced team at Pure Plumbing Professionals to answer any queries and get you on the right track.

References - http://www.yourhome.gov.au/energy/hot-water-service, https://www.choice.com.au/home-improvement/water/hot-water-systems/buying-guides/hot-water-systems, http://www.elgas.com.au/blog/494-what-size-hot-water-system-do-i-need, http://www.yourenergysavings.gov.au/rebates, http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/RET/Scheme-participants-and-industry/Manufacturers