Gas hot water systems

Gas hot water systems remain a favoured option, especially in newer homes where smaller lot sizes make it tough to squeeze a 650mm-wide storage tank down the side. In Caloundra and surrounding areas, many properties are linked to natural gas mains, which generally cost significantly less than bottled LPG cylinders. Instantaneous natural gas and LPG hot water units are compact — about the size of a small suitcase — and can be wall-mounted. These tankless heaters save valuable space, making them a smart choice as block sizes shrink. Most models use electronic ignition rather than a continuous pilot light, improving gas efficiency, but they do rely on electricity, so there’s no hot water during a blackout because no hot reserve is stored. LPG hot water systems are still common but have become pricier due to delivery, handling and cylinder rental charges, often making them more expensive to run than an off-peak electric hot water system. Typically you’ll need two 45kg gas bottles to ensure consistent operation. In some newer estates or planned communities without natural gas, developments may have a central LPG distribution with metered connections. That arrangement removes bottle rental costs but frequently ties you to a single gas supplier. Where natural gas mains are available, the supply usually works out 25–45% cheaper than running LPG bottles. Be aware that many gas suppliers now add service fees exceeding $50 per quarterly bill in addition to the usage charges. Unlike cooking or barbecue gas use, hot water heating consumes far more gas, so both efficiency and supply pricing are key considerations when choosing a system or arranging installation and repairs with a Caloundra plumber for gas and electric hot water systems.