When selecting a gas hot water heater, the key factors to consider are energy efficiency ratings, heating method, size, installation cost and greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric systems.
When it comes to selecting your hot water heater for your abode, there are a multitude of options to ponder:
New hot water systems utilise a gas burner to heat water stored in an insulated tank. The water tank keeps the hot water until needed. Heat pump hot water heaters are one of the most popular choices thanks to their lower operating costs compared to electric storage.
Gas Continuous flow systems take up less space as they provide water heating while passing through the exchanger, eliminating the need for a hot water tank. These compact systems deliver a constant supply of hot water on demand. They can appear more costly at the outset but are very energy efficient, making them a smart choice which can pay off in the long run.
There is no storage tank.
Electric hot water systems utilise heating elements to warm water, ensuring your hot water unit is always ready for use. They are simple to install but can have higher running costs. Heatpump hot water and solar-electric storage systems can reduce electricity usage.
Pump hot water heater systems employ ambient heat extraction to warm water stored in a tank.
Supplemented by a booster electric element if needed. Very energy efficient but expensive upfront. Ideal for temperate climates.
Solar water hot systems harness sunlit roof panels to invigorate water stored in a reservoir.
A gas or electric booster provides additional heating when needed. A gas or electric booster provides additional heating when needed. Solar thermal is best suited to sunnier regions.
When scrutinising electric gas, electric and solar type water heater selections, key distinctions emerge:
Gas systems tend to have lower upfront costs than electric hot or solar hot water systems, making them a sensible investment. Heat pumps and solar systems involve more components and complex installations, making them a larger initial investment.
Gas systems are generally cheaper to operate than electric systems, but the system best aligned with your needs and energy goals is paramount. Solar thermal systems can be very cost effective to operate once installed, though they have high upfront costs. Heat pumps can also have very low running costs.
Gas electric water heaters also have impacts, but natural gas emits a greenhouse gas and requires fossil fuel extraction. However, it has a lower carbon footprint than grid-powered electric systems in many regions. Storage gas hot and heat pumps are extremely eco-friendly options.
Modern new hot water systems that efficiently store gas hot water can supplement solar hot water systems by using excess solar power to run pumps and controllers. This technique allows water heat production to work synergistically with household solar PV arrays.
Gas storage tanks provide a reservoir of hot water on demand. Gas storage tanks provide a reservoir of hot water on demand.
Electric storage tanks have limited hot water capacity. Electric storage tanks have limited hot water capacity.
When it comes to choosing between different types water heaters such as a storage tank or a continuous flow gas system, there are some key differences:
Storage tanks provide a reservoir of an ample amount of hot water ready for use. The amount available depends on the tank size. Continuous flow heaters instantly heat water on demand, determining how much water need is required in supply.
Continuous flow units only heat the continuous flow water as required, avoiding standby losses from stored hot water. This makes them more energy efficient. However, gas hot water heater storage tanks can supplement solar thermal systems, improving overall efficiency.
Storage systems have lower upfront costs. Continuous flow units are more expensive to purchase and install. However, making them an energy saver can offset higher initial expenses over time.
Continuous flow heaters have very low standby emissions. However, storage tanks can have minimal gas usage when combined with solar power. So both system types can support low-carbon living.
Choosing the right size gas water your household needs is an important decision. The size your hot water system needs to accommodate your family depends on several factors:
Reflect on the number of people inhabiting your domicile; a larger number means a greater solar hot water system capacity might be necessary. As a general rule of thumb:
Usage habits also impact the amount hot water you use more than one might expect. If multiple people shower in the mornings, a continuous flow system may work better than a small storage tank that empties quickly.
Colder regions require more hot water capacity to heat larger volumes for baths and washing. Systems in warmer climates can be smaller.
New builds with multiple bathrooms may need bigger systems than older homes. The number of taps and potential extension plans should be factored in too.
Consulting a plumber can help determine the right size for your system, ensuring it meets your new gas setup’s needs. They can assess your household’s specific needs for the best outcome.
When shopping for a new gas hot water system, be sure to compare the energy efficiency star ratings for various storage water solutions. Systems are rated from 1 to 10 stars, indicating how energy efficient they are.
Storage hot water systems can now achieve up to a 5-star rating. However, the most efficient types hot gas systems are instantaneous/continuous flow, with efficiency ratings ranging from 6 to 7 stars.
While star ratings provide efficiency insights, they don’t factor in compatibility with types of hot water systems that utilise renewable energy. Modern gas storage systems can supplement solar thermal, improving eco-credentials beyond their rating.
An expensive 7-star instantaneous system may seem appealing for efficiency. However, considering your budget, a 5-star storage system your household may suit better. Highly recommend consulting an expert to determine the optimal system.
Regarding initial costs, gas hot water systems are often more affordable compared to the solar, heat pump, or electric hot water system options available. This makes them more affordable options for many households.
While gas systems exhibit lower initial outlay, efficient units like pump hot water systems and solar out hot water devices save money as they often pay for themselves with energy bill savings over time. Although installation is a bigger investment, reduced ongoing costs over a system’s lifespan balance out initial expenses.
Determining the break-even point of energy savings from more efficient systems compared to added upfront expenses involves weighing up variables like usage, gas and electricity costs in your area, government rebates available, and expected system lifespan.
Speaking to qualified plumbers can provide guidance on finding the right balance of affordability and efficiency for your home’s specific needs. With their expertise, You can determine whether spending more upfront on a new hot water system like solar hot water or a heat pump will lead to worthwhile long-term savings.
Properly installing a gas hot water system can require factoring in aspects like:
Same day servicing ensures optimal performance and safety:
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines ensures a great job in preventing issues. Neglecting service needs can reduce efficiency and pose dangers.
When weighing up the environmental impacts of different hot water systems in the Riverwood area, it’s important we consider ways to reduce greenhouse emissions.
Gas systems certainly produce carbon dioxide and require fossil fuel extraction. However, thanks to Australia’s continued reliance on coal power, electric storage systems can contribute over three times more greenhouse gases than gas.
This is where solar heat pump hot technology comes in. By combining efficient gas systems with solar thermal technology, we meet your water heating needs in the best of both worlds:
Modern gas systems integrate with solar panels on home solar PV systems. This provides renewable power to run controllers and pumps, further improving the eco-friendliness of gas hot water.
While solar and heat pump systems have higher upfront costs, government incentives make them more affordable. And renewable energy solutions will only become more commonplace and cost-effective as infrastructure and technology continues improving.
So for homeowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, solar thermal and solar-assisted gas represent excellent environmental solutions today, while solar heat pump systems and fully electric will shine even brighter in the future.
Modern gas hot water systems can be integrated with solar thermal technology for increased eco-friendliness without sacrificing continuous hot water supply:
While solar PV generates electricity rather than heat, gas systems can also reap benefits from household solar arrays. Smart gas system controllers can:
This smart solar-gas interplay reduces your energy bills while maintaining continuous hot water delivery.
To enjoy the compatibility benefits of solar-assisted gas systems, installation is key. Elements like:
Need to align for optimal system performance. Consult qualified installers like us to maximise savings.
Pros:
Cons:
Pros:
Cons:
When weighing up these factors, consider your household’s hot water usage patterns and hot water needs to determine if a storage or continuous flow gas system aligns best.
Australian households can take advantage of generous government rebates when installing the best gas hot water heaters. These incentives help make environmentally-friendly system installed upgrades more affordable.
The NSW government offers the Energy Saving Bonus Rebate to residents who purchase a 6 star or higher gas hot water system. For the 2023 financial year, rebates up to $1,200 are available when replacing an existing gas system rated under 6 stars.
The Australian government also provides rebates that Riverwood residents can utilise when upgrading home systems and appliances to more efficient models under the Home Energy Efficiency Upgrade programme. Rebates ranging from $500 to $1,000 can supplement the purchase cost of 5-6 star hot water units.
Combining state and federal incentives makes investing in an energy-saving gas hot water system a smart financial choice that pays off in the long run through utility bill savings. Contact our team to explore your rebate eligibility when upgrading your hot water system.
Safety relief valves, also called TPR (temperature pressure relief) valves, are a critical component on hot water heaters. They serve to regulate unsafe pressure builds up by releasing water if it exceeds the valve’s pre-set limit, usually 150 PSI. TPR valves also regulate excess temperature.
Read MoreIt’s important to know how to turn off your gas supply at the meter in case of emergencies or gas leaks. We explain the simple process in a few steps. If you ever smell gas or can’t turn off the supply, leave the area and call the gas company or emergency services right away.
Read MoreGetting hot water while off-grid can be challenging but there are great solutions whether using solar, LPG, wetbacks or other systems. We are experts at installing sustainable hot water to suit any budget and lifestyle. Call us today for personalised advice.
Read MoreRiverwood, 2210 NSW
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