Hi everyone,

There are two major options for residential hotwater heating system:

1. Gas continuous flow
2. Electric hot water cylinders

I am going to describe the pros and cons of these systems to help you decide which one to go when you build a new home or do renovation.

 

Gas continuous flow

Advantage

• Good option if you already use reticulated gas for space heating, and want to continue this
• The heating system is installed outside. No space is required inside (this is a big advantage for a limited sized home)
• Endless hotwater supply.

Be Careful

• you will have to pay a fixed charge for reticulated gas supply (if you don’t already)
• If gas mains are not nearby your property LPG bottles are needed and space outside is required for these (Normally outside a garage)
• while burning gas is relatively clean, the greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate change
• though the hot water never runs out, using more than you need is a waste of money, water and energy

 

 

Electric hot water cylinders

Advantage

• Relatively low upfront cost (compared to the cost for making a new gas connection to mains)
• Outside space is not required for GAS bottles

Be Careful

• Hotwater supply may stop if it is used too much in a short period of time
• Running cost can be expensive

 

We often recommend GAS to our clients because it can save space inside and no risk for running out of hotwater.