IS Electric or gas hot water best?

There are so many options to consider when it comes to gas vs electric hot water, which is why we've put together a comparison of electric hot water cylinders vs gas hot water cylinders vs gas continuous flow hot water to help you decide which option might be right for you.

Hot water is something we all expect to have, but often take for granted. We don’t tend to give hot water systems much thought until it’s time for repairs or an upgrade. If you are considering upgrading or replacing your hot water cylinder, finding the right information can be difficult.

We also offer commercial hot water systems >

There are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing a hot water system for your household.

How much water do you typically use?
How large is your household?
How many bathrooms do you have?

With so much technical information out there, it’s hard to know what is right for you. Topline’s team of licensed plumbers and gasfitters are trade specialists. We are available to talk you through your options, providing expert advice and practical solutions based on your individual requirements.

PROS AND CONS of electric hot water cylinders

(STORAGE WATER SYSTEM)

PROS of Electric Hot Water Cylinders	CONS of Electric Hot Water Cylinders
Suitable for all water pressures	No hot water during a power outage
Some cylinders come with additional connections for solar power, saving electricity	Hot water is limited to the amount the cylinder itself can store and its recovery rate
Suitable for a wide range of water conditions	Some units can be bulky
Take advantage of night-rate electricity tariffs depending on power plan
Some models can be installed indoors or outdoors
Newer models are triple insulated to minimise heat loss

pros and cons of GAS HOT WATER CYLINDERS

(STORAGE WATER SYSTEM)

PROS of Gas Hot Water Cylinders	CONS of Gas Hot Water Cylinders
No electricity required, so there is a continuous supply of hot water during a power outage	They are more expensive to install upfront than an electric hot water cylinder
Space saving (can be fitted outdoors)	Limitations to where they can be located.
Flow rates of up to 40L / m
Ideal for high usage customers
Suitable for all water pressures

pros and cons of GAS CONTINUOUS FLOW

PROS of Continuous Gas Flow	CONS of Continuous Gas Flow
Only uses gas on demand, so there is no cost when not in use	They can be more expensive to run if using LPG bottles
Heats water on demand instead of storing it, so it should never run out of water	As they heat water on demand, they could struggle to supply large quantities of hot water over a short period
Perfect for sporadic water use such as guest bathrooms and the bach	Some systems require an electrical supply, so no hot water would be available during a power outage
2 units can be linked together for home with a high hot water use	Limitations to where they can be located
Compact size
Optional Temperature Controllers

Need help with your hot water cylinder or planning to convert from electric to gas hot water? Whether it's a gas hot water cylinder or gas continuous flow, get in touch! We’d be happy to help. 0800 111 818 or enquire online >

Topline is proud to be a preferred installation and service agent for Rheem. Whatever your hot water cylinder needs, Rheem has a product to suit. Find out more about Rheem hot water systems here,

We are also able to install and service Apex, Caleffi, RMC, and Rinnai products.

See more on our Electric Hot Water Cylinder page >

See more on our Gas Hot Water Cylinder page >