Natural Gas Hot Water Systems Buying Guide
What are the benefits of a Gas Hot Water System?
If you have access to gas piping in your area, a gas hot water system is a must. More efficient and environmentally friendly than electric alternatives, they offer quick heat-up times as well as long-lasting service.
Okay - true, the initial cost of installation is often greater than that of an electric system, but it's definitely worth it. A gas system will repay its investment quickly via the large savings you will make on your energy bills.
Rinnai B26N50A 26L Natural Gas Instantaneous Hot Water System
Yet to be reviewed
Rheem 265L Natural Gas Hot Water System 631265N0
Yet to be reviewed
Continuous Flow vs Storage Hot Water Systems
Appliances Online offer the "continuous flow" type of natural gas hot water system - generally the more efficient, economical and best-performing variety.
Continuous flow systems are small wall-mounted units that heat water only as you use it. When the hot tap is turned on, cold water is fed through a heat exchanger - this raises the temperature of the water that's then sent onwards through the pipe.
They are a superior alternative to the traditional "storage" systems - which maintain a heated tank of water that sits ready and waiting for household use. Although insulated, the storage tanks inevitably lose heat, so a significant amount of gas - and therefore money - will have to be pumped into sustaining the right temperature.
Storage systems can also run out of hot water - often an issue for members of a large family who are late in line for the shower.
By contrast, with a continuous flow system, a hot shower will stay as steady as your water supply.
How much demand can a Continuous Flow Hot Water System handle?
Our range offers up to 32L/min water flow. Based on estimates provided by Sustainability Victoria, this flow rate can handle at least three outlets in use at the one time - suitable for a large household.
We also offer alternatives for those with smaller demands and budgets - the lowest provides 16L/min water flow, suitable for a two-person household.
Are Continuous Flow Hot Water Systems water efficient?
Continuous flow units do waste some water during the time it takes for the heat exchanger to get going - potentially one or two liters - each time the tap is turned on. Minimize wastage by turning the tap on at a low rate whilst the water is warming.
Wastage can also be alleviated with a water recirculation system which is easily installed into new or existing plumbing. At the press of a button, cold water is pumped back to the heater until the water warms up.
What are the requirements for a Natural Gas Hot Water System?
You will need a relatively large diameter gas piping to cope with the fuel requirements of a continuous flow system.
Ideally, the system will be placed as close as possible to outlets that need the most amount of hot water, such as the shower or kitchen sink. The further away, the more heat dissipates through the pipes and the longer the outlet takes to get the water.
Prior to your install, you should get a quote from a gas technician to see if any modifications need to be made to your gas supply.
Please feel free to contact our customer service team for any queries on natural gas hot water systems. Call us on 1300 000 500.