One of the biggest decisions you need to make when you install a new water heater is whether you want an electric or gas water heater. A gas heater is an option that could be the most suitable for you if your home already has a gas line. Otherwise, Electric systems can be easily converted with the installation of gas lines to the area of your hot water service. There are several benefits to going with a gas hot water service model, as well as a few drawbacks to consider.

Benefits of Gas Water Heating

Faster Than Electric

Gas water heaters are approximately twice as fast at heating water compared with electric models. While an electric heater may take an hour to heat 100 litres of water, a gas model can heat an entire 200-litre tank within an hour. This means you’re less likely to run out of hot water. For larger families, a gas heater is usually the better option because electric water heaters may have trouble keeping up with high demands for hot water, as well as really using up your household energy consumption. If you want your hot water tap to work instantly (rather than an extended period of cold water coming from the tank), then a gas system is what you are after!

Generally Lower Energy Costs

Although electric heaters are more energy efficient as gas storage units suffer heat loss from the walls of the tank and exhaust gasses, electricity is more expensive that natural gas, making them a popular choice. This makes gas heaters more affordable to operate in terms of energy costs and running costs, more than balancing out the heat loss. Energy efficiency = reduced carbon footprint. If you already have a gas connection to your home or business, it is generally a preferred choice and a more efficient choice.

Don’t Lose Hot Water during Blackouts

Gas water heaters that ignite with a pilot light instead of an electric ignition will work even if the power goes out. Australian homeowners are no strangers to power outages and the ability to have hot water even when the power goes out can be a big advantage.

Downsides of Gas Water Heaters

Higher Upfront Cost

While your energy bills will likely be lower with a gas water heater, gas models cost more upfront and they’re more costly in terms of maintenance and installation. Despite the higher upfront cost, most gas water heaters make up for this price difference within a year, so long as they are well maintained with regular maintenance by licensed plumbers for optimal performance.

Slightly Shorter Lifespan

Gas water heaters have a slightly shorter lifespan than electric water heaters. If you install a gas and electric hot water heater at the same time, the electric model will be expected to survive about a year longer than its gas brother.

More Difficult Installation

Gas water heaters require a more complex installation that includes a ventilation system in some cases. If the home has never had a gas water heater, PVC pipes will need to be installed to vent through the roof. This ventilation system will also require occasional maintenance or repairs that may be done when the hot water heater is replaced. Gas hot water installation also becomes tricky and more costly if you don’t have gas already connected to your home and account for additional costs if you are going to switch to gas.

Get Professional Advice

If you still can’t decide what’s best for you, get in touch with trusted professional plumbers for advice and hot water solutions. With a wide range of knowledge, they can provide you with a more detailed assessment of costs and installation requirements for all types of hot water units based on your specific home and needs. Each client has a different need due to household size, business needs, whether there are exisiting gas systems, the type of business you run and other water consumption factors. our licensed professionals will be able to guide you in the right direction.

If are thinking about switching to a gas hot water system or you need a new replacement gas hot water system for your home or business, get in touch with G.F. James Plumbing today on 02 9649 1099 or enquire online.