Gas vs Electric Hot Water Systems – Which is best?
When you think about it, we really do take hot water systems for granted. They work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year without a rest, yet we get super cranky when they stop working, or aren’t working at their full capacity.
With this in mind, not every type of hot water system is going to be suited to every household’s needs. For example, a family of 2 adults and 4 children under 10 are going to have different needs to a family with 1 adult and 1 teenage child. That is why we decided to put together some information regarding electric hot water systems and gas hot water systems, and how they compare to one another. They are both common hot water system choices, with various positives and negatives to consider, but which one is best?
If you have any questions, give Captain Cook Electrical a call on 1300 911 307 and we would be happy to assist.
Electric Hot Water System
The first option we are considering is the Electric Storage Hot Water System. This is the most common choice across Australia, with over 50% of the population choosing some kind of electric hot water system.
Advantages
- Lower upfront cost, including purchase and installation.
- Easy to install.
- Reliable.
- Can be installed both indoors and outdoors.
Disadvantages
- Higher longer-term running cost, especially if not run during low-tariff times.
- Running during low-tariff times saves money, but as these times are usually overnight, a larger tank is needed to ensure enough hot water for the whole day.
Gas Hot Water Systems
The other option is a Gas Hot Water System. Although not as common as their electric counterpart, they are growing in popularity, especially considering the increased interest in environmentally conscious energy choices.
Advantages
- Cheaper running costs in the long-term.
- More energy efficient.
- Less greenhouse gas emissions.
Disadvantages
- More expensive to purchase and install, especially if you do not have a gas connection already in your home.
- Can generally only be installed outside (if inside, must have a flue).
- If run on LPG, as opposed to natural gas, the running costs can be much higher.
Which one is better?
When it comes down to it, the system that you choose for your home or business is going to vary according to a huge range of factors. If you are looking at a system with a lower upfront cost that is easy to install than an electric system is a great choice. If you are after something that is a little more environmentally conscious and cheaper in the long term, a gas system is a better choice to consider. Ultimately, we recommend speaking to your local professional for a little extra help!
Your local electric hot water specialists
If you have any questions regarding electric hot water systems, give Captain Cook Electrical a call on 1300 911 307 now.
Resources:
CHOICE (How to buy the best hot water system): https://www.choice.com.au/home-improvement/water/hot-water-systems/buying-guides/hot-water-systems
Canstar Blue (What’s Cheaper: Electricity or Gas?: https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/whats-cheaper-electricity-or-gas/
