When choosing a new hot water system, energy efficiency and running costs are top concerns. Electric heat pump and solar systems are the most efficient, but gas instantaneous is popular for its lower operating costs vs electric storage.
Selecting the suitable hot water system for your home is essential and warrants careful thought. The type of system you select can have a significant impact on your energy costs, environmental footprint, and convenience. Among the choices, the debate often centers on whether to opt for gas or electric hot water systems.
Electric and gas storage hot water systems provide unique benefits and limitations in efficiency, operating costs, installation complexity, and maintenance requirements. Our goal is to provide a detailed comparison to help you choose the best hot water system for your home. In this article, we’ll explore the key distinctions between electric and gas hot water systems across these areas.
Understanding the nuances between gas and electric systems is fundamental for making informed choices, whether for new installations or replacing existing units. We’ll examine practical elements such as energy consumption, water heating delivery, flow rates, longevity, warranties, alongside purchase and installation expenses.
With the right information, you’ll be well-prepared to select a hot water system that meets your home’s specific needs.
When choosing the right hot water system between gas water heaters and their electric counterparts, there are several key factors that demand careful consideration:
Looking at these key areas in detail allows us to weigh up the pros and cons of each vs electric water system. We can tailor our choice to make certain the system complements your lifestyle and home’s unique demands.
In terms of installation expenses, gas systems are usually pricier than electric ones. Here in Wetherill Park, Sydney, installing a gas system can cost anywhere from $2000 - $4000 depending on the unit size, difficulty of installation, need for new gas lines, and other variables.
In contrast, The installation cost for standard electric water heaters, including storage or hot water heat pump models, may range from $1500 - $2500. However, efficient heat pump systems acclaimed for energy savings can be as costly as $3500 or more. Location also plays a role, with installation generally more affordable outside of major cities.
The installation process for both systems involves connecting plumbing lines, wiring, and securing the unit with precision, often easier to install than expected. However, gas installations require certified professionals and safety checks, adding to labour costs. Multiple quotes are recommended.
Homeowners may be eligible for rebates on certain energy and cost efficient hot water systems under government schemes, helping to reduce upfront costs significantly.
Although gas vs electric hot systems represent a more substantial initial investment, one must consider the balance against operating and energy costs over the system’s lifespan. Our experts can offer quotes and advice tailored to your specific needs, comparing electric hot options to ensure the best fit for your household.
In assessing operating and energy expenses, gas hot water heaters often outpace electric models in efficiency. Here are some important factors regarding running costs:
However, there’s no one-size-fits-all for energy expenditures—they vary based on hot water usage, tariff rates, and the age and type of system. We recommend estimating your annual costs for both gas and electric systems by comparing quotes.
When it comes to efficiency, we’re looking at how effective a hot water system is at using energy to heat water. The more efficient, or the most efficient a system is, the more energy is conserved during the heating process.
Electric storage tanks have varying efficiencies, with some models converting as much as 88% of the energy used into heat, whereas high-end heat pump systems can attain efficiencies reaching 400%. This means for every 1 unit of electricity used, a heat pump can deliver 3-4 units of heat energy. However, gas systems still tend to have a performance advantage.
Gas tankless water heaters can provide flow rates between 12-20 litres per minute, surpassing the standard 7-10 litres per minute offered by electric storage systems.
For large households or multiple bathrooms with high demand, gas systems are better equipped to supply ample hot water. Their capability to deliver hot water at high rates, along with fast recovery times and significant volumes, render them an attractive option for households with peak demands.
Whilst heat pump electric units are energy efficient, they do produce lower water heating output compared to instantaneous gas systems. This can become a limitation for homes with high demand. Gas systems have a performance advantage for rapidly heating and supplying large volumes of hot water on tap.
When it comes to environmental impact, electric and gas hot water systems have some key differences. Here are some points to consider:
Talking to a professional can help weigh up the environmental pros and cons for your location and needs. Energy-saving technologies, renewable supplements, and decreased water heating usage contribute to a smaller environmental footprint.
When it comes to maintenance, gas hot water systems generally require more frequent and involved servicing compared to electric systems. This is primarily due to the gas burner and flue which need regular safety checks and cleaning.
Manufacturers’ service guidelines for storage systems differ, yet gas models commonly require comprehensive servicing every 3-5 years. This involves inspecting pipes and connections for corrosion and leaks, cleaning the burner and flue, replacing seals, checking the pilot light, testing valve operation and more. Annual minor services are also advised.
Electric systems have fewer mechanical parts, simplifying maintenance.
Storage tanks should be flushed yearly with cold water to prevent sediment buildup which reduces efficiency. Basic electrical checks may be required every 5 years or so.
One difference is that maintenance for gas systems may legally need to be done by licenced technicians only. DIY servicing of electric systems is generally permitted. But For safety reasons, it is recommended to seek professional maintenance for all types of systems.
With proper upkeep, gas storage and continuous flow systems can have lifespans of 10-15 years, in contrast to the 8-12 year expectancy for electric storage tanks. If opting for a gas system, ensure service technicians possess the necessary qualifications.
Ideally, compare quotes for both systems side-by-side. This allows you to weigh up the costs over the full lifespan. For those prioritising the environment, modern gas systems and electric heat pumps offer significant benefits through greener credentials.
If your household has high hot water demands, gas continuous flow may be the best option. When prioritising efficiency, heat pump hot water systems excel over similar electric hot systems. Solar hot water systems can also supplement gas or electric to reduce environmental impacts.
Selecting a hot water system necessitates professional advice. At Wetherill Park Plumbing, our experienced team can provide tailored advice to help you select the perfect system for your home and needs.
Contact us today on 1300 349 338 or jobs@wetherillparkplumbingservices.com.au to discuss your situation. We service all areas across Wetherill Park and wider Sydney. Our qualified plumbers can:
With more than a decade of expertise, we streamline the process of choosing the right system for your water requirements. Our specialist advice aids homeowners in making the correct initial choice. For professional advice tailored to your family’s needs, get in touch today.
Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, heatwaves, and cold snaps frequently cause plumbing emergencies. Issues like pipe bursts, blockages, flooding, and leaks often require urgent attention from a professional emergency plumber to prevent further damage.
Read MoreAs winter approaches, take steps to winterize your hot water system: flush sediment, insulate tank & pipes, check valves, adjust temperature. Prevent bursts & loss of hot water. Contact us for reliable hot water system preparation before winter.
Read MorePipe patching and pipe relining are two methods of repairing damaged pipes without full replacement. Key differences are that patching is more localised whilst relining coats the inside of the whole pipe. Relining takes longer but has a longer lifespan. Call us to learn more and get a quote.
Read MoreWetherill Park, 2164 NSW
We will call back as soon as possible.
