SME-book

STEP 15Install a gas hot water systemIf the installation of a solar or heat pump hot watersystem does not meet your needs, you can install anatural gas water heater system.These are currently more cost-effective than existingelectric hot water heaters and come in two types –instant gas hot water systems 32 and gas hot waterstorage systems.When buying a gas hot water system, buy a systemwith a minimum 5-star rating.When investigating this option, do bear in mind thatthe price of gas is increasing, so the financial savingsthat have been there in the past may not continueover the life of the system.A qualified plumber can advise you as to which one of these will give you the most costeffectivehot water for your type of business.You can also use LPG gas where natural gas is not available, but according to CHOICE,this is one-and-a-half to three times more expensive than natural gas or electricity. 33The Department of Industry and Science has a useful guide for people who want to switchto gas water heaters – you can check it out here: EnergyCut.info/gas-water-heater-guideYou can also compare the different gas hot water heaters at the EnergyRating.gov.auwebsite: EnergyCut.info/energy-rating-gas-hot-waterWhen installing a gas hot water system,make sure you protect the pilot lightfrom draughts.32 Gas instant hot water systems are sometimes called ‘continuous hot water’.33 EnergyCut.info/gas-hot-water395 Back to Contents