It’s all too easy to overlook how vital a hot water system is. After all, without one, you’re not going to have hot showers or even get to use something as simple as a hot water tap. Given their importance, you might want to know if an instantaneous gas hot water system in Australia can function without electricity.
Well, we’ll answer that question whilst looking at other systems and tell you what you need to know about power outages.
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Yes, electricity is necessary for a hot water system to work due to its electric sensor and water temperature controller. Other alternative systems don’t require electricity, and we’ll look at these later in the article.
There are two main types of gas hot water systems: gas and electric gas. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
This type of water heater system is usually powered by a pilot light that ignites your system’s main burner. Typically, they use natural gas or propane and are well-placed to withstand a power outage.
An electric gas pilot light water heater system functions similarly, but the gas burner is ignited by electricity. In this case, it won’t work without electricity, but you might have warm water for a couple of days.
Unlike other models, Instantaneous gas hot water systems don’t include a water storage tank. So, without power, you may have cold water for a while.
This type of hot water system works by heating cold water through a heat exchanger powered by gas burners . The cold water has a continuous flow into the heater through a metal piping system coiled around the heat exchanger. That water then absorbs the heat.
Aside from standard gas hot water systems, there are several alternatives to consider. Below, we’ll go over a couple of options and their advantages.
Aside from a gas-powered instant hot water system, there are also electric options, which rely on electricity to function rather than gas. However, unlike gas models , an electric-powered system heats stored water for several days.
Other options depend on your plumbing situation or preference. Several examples include the following:
Sometimes referred to as a solar domestic hot water system, solar-powered systems typically utilise thermal energy absorbed by the sun to heat the water. These systems are particularly advantageous due to their being energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
A heat coil heater starts working the moment you turn on your hot water tap. At that point, amounts of water flow through a heating coil hooked up to your primary heat source, such as a boiler or furnace.
Fuel oil water heater systems typically refer to a tank system that stores water until used. As its name suggests, this system uses fuel oil in addition to electricity.
Sometimes, power outages occur. It can’t always be avoided, but it’s good to know what you need to do when it happens since your instantaneous gas hot water system in Australia can’t function without running electricity.
With that in mind, we recommend getting a battery backup or generator to power your heater. Alternatively, you might want to check out solar hot water systems to do away with worries about power outages.
Otherwise, one of your first steps during a blackout should be to turn off the power supply to your gas heater. Doing so will keep you and your property safe.
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Power outages are, by nature, inconvenient and can potentially last days. In that time, you’ll likely be without running hot water. Even when the power comes back, you might find the outage has tripped up the reset button on your instant gas hot water system . If that happens, you’ll need to bring in a plumber to ensure everything is in working order.
If you’re still curious about a couple of factors when dealing with an instantaneous gas hot water heater, keep reading as we’ve got the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Water is heated as needed. So, when you turn on your hot water tap from your sink, your instantaneous gas hot water system starts heating the water.
If your water heater system is gas-powered, it cannot function without the use of electricity. However, if a gas pilot powers your water heater, it can operate without electricity.
Deciding which hot water system is best for your home depends on if you have the space for it, your budget, and what type of hot water system you want. The most common option is an instantaneous gas hot water system, but, as we’ve read, there are others to consider.
Do instantaneous gas hot water systems in Australia need electricity to function properly? In short, yes, but other types of hot water systems don’t, like solar, heat coil, and fuel oil. Whether you have a power outage or a malfunctioning instantaneous gas hot water system, it’s highly recommended to shut off the power supply to your gas heater.
Your next step should be to bring in professional support. Bayside Plumbing service has a dedicated team of friendly master plumbers available 24 hours a day . We’re ready to do a great job dealing with any problem, big or small, with your instantaneous gas hot water system.
Whether you need hot water system repairs, maintenance , or installation, for a free inspection in the wider Sydney area!