Constant flow
One of the most obvious advantages when you convert to a natural gas instantaneous hot water heater is the constantly flowing hot water. It is heated as you use it, so you will not run out – which can be a great relief in a house full of people.
When you are in the shower you will not experience a pressure drop if someone flushes toilet, which is something you get with electric hot water systems.
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Safety features
Another benefit of gas hot water is that each system comes with a built-in anti-scald device, which controls the temperature to go no higher than 55 degrees and decreases the risk of scalds and burns. (This same device is present in new electrical installations.) You can also get a touch pad controller installed to adjust temperatures: pre-set capabilities in the bathroom allow you to set the exact temperature for your preferred shower – and for the rest of your family. If you also get a touch pad installed in your kitchen, up high on the wall for safety, you can set the temperatures up to 65 degrees for dishwashing.
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Natural gas vs electric
There are set up costs to convert to natural gas, however once you are set up you will pay approximately 40–50 percent less in running costs than electric heating. You can view an energy comparison table (external link) for more detail.
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Requirements
You can sign up for natural gas once it is available in your street. By using Aurora Energy's search facility (external link) you can find out if your premises is in a natural gas zone.
Each gas hot water heater needs to be installed following the Australian code for safety, which means you need to use a registered gas fitter.
 There are limitations to where the unit can be installed: gas hot water systems are generally positioned outside, and must be away from windows and as close to the amenities as possible.
You will also need a waterproof powerpoint connected to power your gas hot water heater (the running costs are negligible). This means getting an electrician as well, though your gas fitter will probably arrange one for you.
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Choosing the right system
 A gas fitter or installer will help you work out what size water heater is right for you: they will ask questions such as how many bathrooms do you have? How many people in your household? What appliances do you use?
You need to make sure that the system you get will suit you now and in the future. If you are planning to expand your family, or renovate your house then let the installer or supplier know.
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Start up costs
Powerco installs the gas pipeline from the street to your house, and then installs a meter. If it is likely that your consumption will be greater than 20GJ (1 gigajoule = 1000 megajoules) – that is, if you are installing an instantaneous gas hot water heater as opposed to a small heater, this installation is free of charge.
You need then only pay for the system itself and its installation. Powerco also offers a cash back incentive (external link) on this cost if you apply in the first nine months that gas is available in your street.
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More information
If you would like to know more about getting connected to natural gas with Aurora Energy, you can view the natural gas information pages (external link) or phone 1300 13 2030.
You can also visit Powerco (external link) to find out more about the rebates scheme.
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