From washing, cleaning, and bathing to other tasks, hot water is key for homes and businesses. Therefore, there are multiple options for hot water installation, i.e., electric and gas. In Australia, both hot water systems are extremely common. Individuals and companies choose the one most suitable for their needs depending on its features and advantages.

With this blog, we focus on the functioning of gas hot water, so if you have or are keen on installing gas hot water systems, you are aware of the functioning of a gas hot water system.

Types of Gas Hot Water System

Before we learn how does a gas hot water system work, we need to know its types.

Gas Storage Hot Water System: These units warm and hold hot water in a tank. The gauge keeps the water at a set heat, so hot water is ready when needed. The drawback is you must ensure the tank doesn’t go dry. If it does, you will need to wait for it to fill up and warm again.
Gas Continuous Flow Hot Water System: Also called tankless systems, these heat water only when needed. There is no storage tank, so you get a steady flow of water. Plus, it saves energy by not heating large amounts of water. However, using several taps at once can slow the flow.

How Does a Gas Hot Water System Work?

If you are wondering how to light a gas hot water system, know that these use either LPG or natural gas to operate. One of the biggest advantages of using these is that it’s a quicker process than traditional electric hot water systems. Through these, you receive water almost instantly. Below is a detailed insight into how gas hot water systems work.

Gas Storage Hot Water System

Cold Water Intake: The system starts with cold water filling the tank from the base. It fills the tank to the top.
Gas Burner Ignition: After the tank fills, the gas burner below the tank starts. The burner heats the water until it hits the set heat level.
Thermostat Control: A thermostat manages the water heat. It sets the heat and tells the burner to stop when the water hits 50°C to 60°C.
Hot Water Supply: When you turn on a hot tap, warm water is drawn from the top. Since heat rises, the hottest water stays at the top for use.
Continuous Heating: As you use warm water, cold water flows into the tank from the base, taking its place. The thermostat starts the burner again if the heat drops, giving a steady flow of hot water.
Insulation for Efficiency: The tank is well insulated to keep the heat for a long time. Some heat loss can still occur, so the burner starts again to hold the set heat level.

Gas Tankless Hot Water System

Activation: Turn on the hot tap, and the system spots the flow. It then starts the gas burner at once.
Water Heating: Cold water moves into the unit and goes through a heat exchanger. The burner lights up, heating the water as it runs. This takes place in seconds, giving hot water right away.
Thermostat Control: Set your preferred heat with the thermostat. This stops the water from getting too hot. When the water gets to the set point, the burner keeps it warm.
No Tank, Endless Hot Water: Since there is no storage tank, the system heats the water continuously as long as the tap remains open. This provides a limitless supply of hot water, perfect for large families or commercial use where water needs are unpredictable.

Benefits of Gas Hot Water Systems

As we go through the functioning of the hot water system, one of the most pivotal advantages we understand is that it’s an extremely energy-efficient appliance. However, apart from that, there are multiple benefits which you will enjoy. Below are a few:

Receive a steady and reliable flow of hot water even if you have a large family or a commercial premise to cater to.
Gladly, use the gas hot water system, knowing it has a lower carbon footprint, so you are a little less responsible for harming the environment.
Natural gas is less expensive than electricity. Therefore, you save on utility costs, and in the long term, it’s a more cost-effective option.
Though gas storage hot water systems take up a little more space, the tankless ones are compact. These are wall-mounted and save a lot of valuable floor space.

To Sum Up

A gas hot water unit is a smart and trusted way to heat homes and work sites. It gives fast, steady hot water while cutting your energy bills and carbon use. The choice of a tank or flow unit depends on your home’s size, water use, and space.

As a plumber in Melbourne, Geelong and other suburbs, we have decades of experience helping people choose and set up the right gas hot water unit. Our team will give you a plan that suits your needs. Reach out to learn more about what we do.