Are you thinking about upgrading your Gold Coast property with a new hot water system? If so, then you have two main choices. You can either opt for a gas system or instead select an electric hot water system for your property. It is worth exploring the differences and benefits between these two systems before making your final choice. So in this article we’ll look at electric vs gas hot water systems.
Electric Water Systems
Typically, an electric hot water system will use a cylindrical tank. This will ensure a constant supply of heated water for your home.
They do come in a range of different sizes and usually, it is recommended that you opt for a tank that provides 50 litres per person living in the property.
This should be ideal for most homes on the Gold Coast.
Benefits of Electric Hot Water Systems
Be aware that these tanks provide have many flexible installation options.
They can be installed either indoors or outdoors, depending on the requirements for your home. This is an attractive possibility as it means they are ideal if you do not have space or wish to free up space inside your home.
“It is worth exploring the differences and benefits between these two systems before making your final choice.”
The systems are also cheaper than the typical gas hot water systems in terms of the upfront installation.
They are a great deal easier to set up and put in place which often means you’ll save on installation too.
Another benefit is that they will only need to be connected to the water and power to function effectively. Again, this is a far simpler set up compared to the typical gas heater.
Disadvantages of Electric Hot Water Systems
Despite the cheap installation costs, electric hot water systems do come with a few drawbacks that you need to be aware of.
For instance, they are not as efficient as you might like.
While the hot water system will be insulated, a storage tank like this will typically lose some heat.
When running, the system needs to maintain a particular temperature, even during off-peak time.
Ultimately, this may mean that your electrical tank may cost more in the long run even with the low installation cost.
Another issue with these types of systems is that they can run out of water.
Storage systems like this have a finite amount of hot water at any given time.
So multiple long showers or baths can create problems and that’s why if you have a large family, you might be best opting for a different system. Or, perhaps, choosing a larger storage tank.
Gas Hot Water Systems
Typically a gas hot water system will be a continuous flow model.
In this case, the systems are very small and as such take up little space. These do not have a tank which means that you won’t have to worry about problems with low efficiency.
The system only heats water if and when you use it.
When you turn on the hot tap cold water travels through the heat exchanger.
As this occurs it increases the water temperature.
The water then travels back through the pipe to the source before running out the shower or tap.
Benefits of Gas Hot Water Systems
One of the greatest advantages of this type of system is that, unlike an electric set up, you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water.
You will always have the hot water you need regardless of how big your family is or how long you like your showers in the morning.
In addition instant hot water systems don’t require a large water tank because the water is heated directly as is moves through the pipes when you turn on the tap.
This means it’s ideal for smaller properties where there might not be room to store a water tank.
Unlike electrical systems, you can determine the size of the gas system right for you by looking at the flow per minute.
For instance, a 16L/minute flow system should be suitable for homes with two people.
Alternatively, if you are thinking about adding a system to your family home, you should opt for one that is 32L/minute.
Disadvantages of Gas Hot Water Systems
Be aware that when you turn on the tap there’s a slight delay for the water to heat up in the system. Unlike an electrical system where the process is instant, there’s no water stored up ready to go. As such, you might waste a few litres of cold water before your shower is ready.
Gas water systems also tend to have greater upfront installation costs.
This is again due to the complexity of the systems and the expertise it takes to put them in place. Although they will most likely save you money in the long term.
Electric vs Gas Hot Water: Which one is right for you?
We hope this helps you understand more about the differences between electric and gas systems.
The right choice will depend on your individual needs.
If you want a low upfront cost and don’t need to worry about water running out, an electric system will be right for you.
Alternatively, for a higher installation cost and cheaper long term running rates, gas could be a great choice for your property on the Gold Coast.
Speak to our expert plumbing team and they’ll help you understand what would be the best option when it comes to electric or gas hot water heaters.
