Gas hot water heaters are a popular option, particularly in the new home builder market and for those with smaller land sizes. For areas with natural gas mains, the cost of running a gas hot water system can be much cheaper than using bottled LPG gas. Instantaneous gas hot water heaters are a great space-saving option as they are tankless and can be mounted on a wall, similar to a small suitcase. However, it is important to note that most gas instant hot water heaters use an electronic ignition source that requires a power point to ignite the gas. While this makes them more efficient, they may not work during a blackout, leaving you without hot water.

LPG gas can be more expensive to purchase due to handling and labor costs involved in delivery, in addition to rental fees for each gas tank. This can make it more expensive to run your hot water heater than an off-peak electrical water heater. For those in newer developments and community planned suburbs without access to natural gas, gas mains can be run from a large LPG gas cylinder that is metered. This infrastructure is generally supplied by a gas supplier and eliminates the need for rental fees.

It is important to note that while natural gas can be cheaper, gas providers are now charging service fees that can add up to over $50 per quarterly gas bill on top of the metered gas usage. Additionally, using gas for hot water heating requires a significant volume of gas compared to cooking or barbecuing. Overall, gas hot water heaters can be a great option for those with access to natural gas mains, but it’s important to consider all the costs and requirements before making a decision.