Gas hot water

From March 1, 2006 the Queensland Government requires all new homes to have greenhouse efficient water-heating systems, including either a gas hot water system, a solar hot water heater or an electric heat pump.

The Sustainable Housing Code legislation offers the opportunity for home owners to use the clean energy provided by gas.

Hot water heating accounts for approximately 30 percent of a household's total energy consumption and is therefore a large component of the household energy bill.

Gas hot water systems are inexpensive to purchase and are efficient, reliable and convenient.

There are two basic types of gas hot water heaters - storage systems and continuous systems. Both types of systems are available in a range of sizes and are suitable for reticulated natural gas and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas).

Storage water heaters

A gas storage system stores heated water in a fully insulated tank, positioned outside your home. There are many styles to choose from with varying features to suit your needs.

Storage units have an efficient recovery rate as well as a streamlined design that allows for easy placement and installation.

Continuous systems

A gas continuous system (pictured right) heats water only as required. These units are more compact than their storage counterparts and with convenience and cost effectiveness their key features, they provide an endless flow of hot water.

Most models also have electronic ignition (no pilot light) and temperature control, so that you'll only heat the water up to the temperature you select. This avoids wasting costly energy by overheating water and then cooling it down again, as with conventional hot water systems.

Greenhouse friendly

Changing from electric to gas hot water can reduce greenhouse emissions by around one-third.

A household using a gas cooktop and gas hot water system is one of the most greenhouse-friendly. Changing from electric to gas cooking can save around half a tonne of greenhouse emissions per household each year. Cooking with gas also provides instant heat control and is easy, quick and economical.

Purchasing a gas hot water system

If buying a gas hot water system, look at the star rating labels. The more stars, the less gas used and the lower the operating costs. This also means reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

A gas hot water heater requires installation by a licensed gasfitter. The time to make a decision about replacing your electric hot water heater with a gas model is before you need it. If you are renovating your home, your bathroom or your kitchen, consider changing to gas. If possible, replace your existing electric hot water heater at the same time as new gas cooking equipment is installed.