2024 Best Gas Storage Hot Water System: Top 10 Options Compared
Choosing the best gas storage hot water system in 2024 comes down to more than brand name. A good gas storage system needs to match the household’s hot water demand, gas type, installation location, tank size, recovery rate, running cost expectations, warranty and budget.
For customers comparing gas storage systems online, Installed Today’s Gas Hot Water Systems category is the best starting point. You can also compare 130/135L Gas Hot Water Systems, 160/170L Gas Hot Water Systems, 5-Star Gas Hot Water Systems, Rheem Hot Water Systems, Vulcan Hot Water Systems, Rinnai Hot Water Systems, Dux Hot Water Systems and Aquamax Hot Water Systems.
The best gas storage system is not always the cheapest tank or the largest model. It is the system that suits the home, gas type, household size and replacement setup.
Quick Answer
Best overall gas storage option: Rheem Stellar 330 Natural Gas
Best larger-household option: Rheem Stellar 360 Natural Gas
Best compact Rheem option: Rheem 4-Star 135L Natural Gas or LPG
Best value-focused compact option: Vulcan 4-Star 135L Natural Gas or LPG
Best larger compact-storage comparison: 160/170L gas storage systems
Best premium category: 5-star gas storage systems
Best category to start with: Gas Hot Water Systems
Main thing to check: natural gas and LPG models are not interchangeable
Best alternative to compare: Instant Gas Hot Water Systems if you want a compact wall-mounted continuous flow system instead of a storage tank
Top 10 Gas Storage Hot Water Systems and Categories for 2024
1. Rheem Stellar 330 Natural Gas Hot Water System
The Rheem Stellar 330 Natural Gas Hot Water System is one of the strongest gas storage options for households that want premium performance from a familiar tank-style gas system.
It is often chosen by customers who want stronger hot water recovery than a basic compact gas storage tank, but still prefer storage hot water over instant gas.
The Rheem Stellar 330 may suit:
medium to larger households
homes already using natural gas
customers wanting a premium gas storage system
properties replacing an older high-performance gas storage unit
families with heavier shower demand
customers who prefer Rheem as a brand
homes where instant gas is not preferred
The main advantage is strong performance in a storage-style format. The main limitation is that it is a natural gas model, so it will not suit LPG properties unless the correct LPG-compatible alternative is available.
2. Rheem Stellar 360 Natural Gas Hot Water System
The Rheem Stellar 360 Natural Gas Hot Water System is a larger high-performance option for households with heavier hot water needs.
It may suit homes where a compact 135L gas storage tank is not enough and the household wants a stronger Rheem storage-style system.
The Rheem Stellar 360 may suit:
larger households
homes with higher daily shower use
families with more people
properties where a compact gas tank has struggled
customers wanting premium Rheem gas storage
homes connected to natural gas
customers wanting stronger first-hour hot water delivery
The Rheem Stellar 360 is usually more system than a small household needs, but it can be a strong choice for higher-demand homes that want gas storage rather than continuous flow gas.
3. Rheem 4-Star 135L Natural Gas Hot Water System
The Rheem 4-Star 135L Natural Gas Hot Water System is a practical compact gas storage option for homes connected to mains natural gas.
It is commonly compared by customers replacing an older 130L or 135L gas storage system and wanting a familiar Rheem-branded replacement.
The Rheem 135L natural gas model may suit:
small to medium households
homes with one main bathroom
townhouses
rental properties
natural gas homes
like-for-like gas storage replacements
customers wanting a recognised hot water brand
The main advantage is that it gives customers a familiar storage-style replacement from a major hot water brand. The main thing to check is whether 135L is enough for the household.
4. Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System
The Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System is the LPG version to compare if the property uses bottled gas rather than mains natural gas.
This distinction matters. Natural gas and LPG systems are not interchangeable.
The Rheem 135L LPG model may suit:
homes using bottled LPG
rural or semi-rural properties
small to medium households
properties replacing an older LPG gas storage tank
customers wanting a Rheem LPG storage option
homes where a compact tank is enough
Before ordering, confirm the gas type with your installer, existing system label, gas bottles or gas supplier. Ordering the wrong gas type can delay the replacement and create extra costs.
5. Vulcan 4-Star 135L Natural Gas Hot Water System
The Vulcan 4-Star 135L Natural Gas Hot Water System is one of the best value-focused gas storage systems to compare.
Vulcan is often chosen by customers who want practical gas storage hot water without paying for a premium model.
The Vulcan 135L natural gas model may suit:
budget-conscious homeowners
rental properties
townhouses
small to medium households
natural gas homes
simple like-for-like gas storage replacements
customers wanting practical value
The main advantage is value. The main limitation is that it is a compact 135L system, so it may not suit larger homes or heavy hot water demand.
6. Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System
The Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System is the LPG option for customers who want a value-focused compact gas storage replacement.
It may suit:
homes using bottled LPG
small to medium households
rental properties
rural or acreage properties
customers replacing an older LPG gas storage system
budget-focused replacements
homes where 135L storage has already worked well
This is a practical option when LPG is already set up on the property and the household does not need a larger premium storage system.
7. Rheem 4-Star 170L Natural Gas Hot Water System
A Rheem 4-Star 170L natural gas storage system is worth comparing where the household needs more capacity than a 135L tank but does not necessarily need a premium Stellar-style system.
Installed Today’s 160/170L Gas Hot Water Systems category is the best place to compare this size range.
A 160L or 170L gas storage system may suit:
larger households than a 135L tank
homes with higher daily hot water use
properties where the old 135L system struggled
customers wanting extra stored capacity
natural gas homes
like-for-like 160L or 170L replacements
The key decision is whether a larger gas storage tank is the best upgrade, or whether an instant gas system would be better for the property.
8. Rheem 4-Star 170L LPG Gas Hot Water System
A Rheem 4-Star 170L LPG gas storage system may suit LPG properties that need more stored hot water than a compact 135L system.
It may be worth comparing if:
the property uses bottled LPG
the old 135L system was too small
the home has higher hot water demand
the household prefers gas storage
there is space for a larger tank
the installer confirms LPG suitability
For LPG homes, running costs should be checked carefully because bottled gas costs can vary. The correct choice depends on household demand, LPG supply, tank location and whether an instant gas or heat pump alternative would make more sense.
9. Vulcan 4-Star 170L Natural Gas Hot Water System
The Vulcan 4-Star 170L natural gas storage system is a useful value-focused comparison for households that want more capacity than a 135L system without stepping into premium gas storage.
It may suit:
natural gas homes
larger small-to-medium households
properties replacing an older 170L storage tank
rental properties with higher demand
customers wanting value over premium features
homes where a compact 135L unit may be too small
The 160/170L Gas Hot Water Systems category is the best starting point for this size range.
10. Aquamax G270SS, Rinnai Hotflo and Other Gas Storage Comparisons
Aquamax G270SS, Rinnai Hotflo and Everhot-style gas storage systems are often mentioned in older comparison articles and customer research. They can still be useful search and comparison terms, especially for customers replacing an older system or comparing major brands.
However, product availability changes over time. Instead of choosing from an outdated list, the smarter approach is to compare current Installed Today categories:
Aquamax Hot Water Systems
Rinnai Hot Water Systems
Dux Hot Water Systems
Gas Hot Water Systems
If the exact older gas storage model is not available, compare the current equivalent by gas type, tank capacity, recovery, warranty, dimensions and household suitability.
Gas Storage Hot Water Comparison Table
| Option | Best For | Main Advantage | Main Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rheem Stellar 330 Natural Gas | Premium medium-to-large household storage | Strong performance and Rheem reputation | Natural gas only |
| Rheem Stellar 360 Natural Gas | Larger households | More capacity and higher-demand suitability | Higher upfront cost |
| Rheem 4-Star 135L Natural Gas | Compact Rheem replacement | Familiar brand and practical size | May be too small for high demand |
| Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG | Compact LPG replacement | Rheem option for bottled gas homes | LPG running costs vary |
| Vulcan 4-Star 135L Natural Gas | Value-focused compact storage | Strong budget-conscious choice | More basic than premium systems |
| Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG | Value-focused LPG storage | Practical for bottled gas homes | Compact capacity |
| Rheem 4-Star 170L Natural Gas | More stored capacity | Better for higher demand than 135L | Needs space and correct site setup |
| Rheem 4-Star 170L LPG | Larger LPG storage | Useful where 135L is not enough | LPG cost and availability matter |
| Vulcan 4-Star 170L Natural Gas | Value-focused larger storage | Practical 170L comparison | Availability should be checked |
| Aquamax/Rinnai/Everhot comparisons | Legacy or brand comparison | Useful when replacing older systems | Current availability can vary |
What Makes a Good Gas Storage Hot Water System?
A good gas storage hot water system should match the household and the site.
The main factors are:
gas type
tank capacity
recovery rate
energy rating
household size
number of bathrooms
shower habits
installation location
access
clearances
valves
warranty
current availability
supply-only or supplied-and-installed option
A premium system can still be wrong if it is the wrong gas type or size. A budget system can still be the best choice if it suits the household and the old system already performed well.
Natural Gas vs LPG: Do Not Get This Wrong
Gas type is one of the most important parts of choosing a gas storage hot water system.
Natural gas systems are for homes connected to mains natural gas.
LPG systems are for homes using bottled gas.
The models are not interchangeable.
Before ordering, check:
the old system label
the property gas bill
whether gas bottles are on site
the selected product page
your licensed installer’s advice
whether the model is available in the correct gas type
This matters for both compact 135L systems and larger 160L or 170L systems.
Is a 135L Gas Storage System Big Enough?
A 135L gas storage system can suit many small to medium households, but it is not right for every home.
A 135L system may suit:
couples
small families
townhouses
rental properties
homes with one main bathroom
moderate daily shower use
properties replacing a similar 135L tank that worked well
A larger system may be better for:
larger families
multiple bathrooms
long showers
heavy bath use
high morning or evening demand
households that already ran out of hot water
properties where a 135L tank struggled
If the old 135L system regularly ran out of hot water, replacing it with another 135L system may repeat the same problem.
When Should You Choose a 160L or 170L Gas Storage System?
A 160L or 170L gas storage system may be the better choice when the home needs more stored water than a compact 135L tank.
It may suit:
larger households
families with higher shower demand
homes with more frequent bathroom use
properties replacing an older 160L or 170L gas tank
customers wanting extra stored capacity
homes where instant gas is not preferred
Before upgrading, check whether the installation location has enough space and whether the existing pipework, valves and drainage are suitable.
When Should You Choose a 5-Star Gas Storage System?
A 5-Star Gas Hot Water System may suit customers who want higher-efficiency gas storage rather than a basic 4-star compact tank.
It may be worth comparing if:
the home already uses natural gas
the household has higher hot water demand
a compact 135L tank is not enough
you prefer gas storage over instant gas
you want a premium storage-style option
you are comparing long-term performance
you want a Rheem Stellar-style system
The Rheem Stellar 330 and Rheem Stellar 360 are the strongest examples to compare in this category.
Gas Storage vs Instant Gas Hot Water
Before choosing gas storage, it is worth comparing instant gas.
Gas storage systems heat and store water inside a tank. They are familiar and often simple for like-for-like replacements.
Instant gas systems heat water only when a tap is turned on. They are compact and wall-mounted but depend heavily on gas supply, pipe sizing and water pressure.
| Feature | Gas Storage | Instant Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water method | Heats and stores water | Heats water as it flows |
| Tank | Yes | No |
| Space | Tank footprint | Compact wall-mounted unit |
| Best suited to | Like-for-like storage replacement | Continuous flow gas replacement |
| Key check | Tank size and recovery | Gas supply and pipe sizing |
Choose gas storage if your existing gas storage system worked well and you want a familiar tank-style replacement.
Choose Instant Gas Hot Water Systems if you want compact continuous flow hot water and the property can support the required gas and water flow.
Gas Storage vs Heat Pump Hot Water
Heat pump hot water is worth comparing if the goal is reducing gas use or lowering running cost potential.
Gas storage may be better when:
the home already uses gas
the existing gas storage system worked well
the household prefers tank-style gas hot water
the replacement path is simple
natural gas or LPG is already available
Heat pump hot water may be better when:
the home has rooftop solar
the customer wants to reduce gas use
there is suitable outdoor space
airflow and drainage are available
noise placement can be managed
the old gas system is expensive or unsuitable
Installed Today’s Heat Pump Hot Water Systems category is worth comparing before committing to another gas storage tank, especially for owner-occupied homes focused on long-term running cost potential.
Installation Considerations for Gas Storage Systems
Gas storage hot water installation should be handled by licensed professionals.
The installer needs to check:
gas type
gas supply
pipe sizing
installation location
clearances
ventilation
valves
tempering requirements
pressure limiting requirements
drainage and discharge points
base or support
access for delivery and removal
old system disposal
current compliance requirements
A gas storage replacement may look simple, but the existing installation may not meet current requirements. This can affect the final cost and installation pathway.
Supply Only vs Supplied and Installed
Installed Today offers supply-only ordering for customers who already have their own licensed plumber or gas fitter arranged.
Supply-only pricing is for the product only and does not include installation, valves, gas work, electrical work, pipework changes, drainage work, old unit removal, disposal or compliance upgrades unless those options are clearly selected or shown on the product page.
Supplied-and-installed options may be available on selected products in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Availability depends on the product, address, gas type, access, existing setup, gas supply, pipe sizing, water pressure, required extras and site requirements.
Before ordering supply only, make sure your licensed installer confirms:
the gas type is correct
the system size suits the household
the product fits the space
the installation location is suitable
the valves and drainage are acceptable
the gas supply is adequate
the system meets site requirements
Running Costs: What Affects Gas Storage Hot Water?
Running costs depend on more than the energy rating.
They are affected by:
natural gas or LPG cost
daily hot water use
number of people in the home
shower length
tank size
storage heat loss
burner efficiency
recovery rate
pipe length
water temperature setting
maintenance condition
valve condition
LPG homes should be especially careful because bottled gas costs can vary. A system that is affordable upfront may not always be the cheapest long term if household usage is high.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Gas storage systems are not maintenance-free.
Maintenance may include:
checking for visible leaks
checking valve discharge
checking burner operation
checking pilot operation where relevant
checking for rust or corrosion
monitoring hot water recovery
checking anode requirements on steel tanks where applicable
keeping the area around the system clear
booking licensed servicing when required
Common signs a gas storage system may need attention include:
not enough hot water
pilot light problems
water leaking from valves
rust around fittings
slow recovery
unusual burner behaviour
temperature inconsistency
age-related reliability issues
A licensed plumber or gas fitter should inspect gas hot water problems.
Brisbane and Gold Coast Buying Context
For Brisbane and Gold Coast homes, gas storage hot water is commonly chosen for like-for-like replacement where the property already uses natural gas or LPG.
Local homes should check:
whether the property uses natural gas or LPG
whether the existing unit is 135L, 170L or a premium gas storage model
whether the old system supplied enough hot water
whether the installation location still suits a tank
whether valves need replacing
whether gas pipework is suitable
whether drainage is suitable
whether access allows safe removal and delivery
whether supplied-and-installed is available for the address
whether heat pump hot water should be compared
South East Queensland homes can suit gas storage, instant gas or heat pump hot water depending on the site.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Gas Storage Hot Water
Ordering the wrong gas type
Natural gas and LPG systems are different. This must be checked before ordering.
Replacing a struggling 135L tank with another 135L tank
If the old system was too small, the same size may repeat the problem.
Choosing only by brand
Rheem, Vulcan, Rinnai, Dux and Aquamax can all be good names, but the model still needs to suit the home.
Ignoring installation requirements
Valves, pipework, drainage, clearances and gas supply can affect the final job.
Choosing the cheapest system without checking running costs
A cheaper tank may not be best long term if it is inefficient, undersized or wrong for the household.
Forgetting to compare instant gas
Some homes may be better suited to continuous flow gas, especially where space is limited and gas supply is suitable.
Before Ordering Checklist
Before ordering a gas storage hot water system, check:
natural gas or LPG
current system size
current system model
household size
number of bathrooms
shower habits
bath use
whether the old system supplied enough hot water
available tank space
access for removal and delivery
gas pipe sizing
valve condition
drainage and discharge points
clearance requirements
whether 135L, 170L or premium 5-star storage is better
whether instant gas should be compared
whether heat pump hot water should be compared
whether supply only or supplied and installed is required
licensed installer confirmation
This helps avoid buying the wrong system.
Which Gas Storage Hot Water System Should You Choose?
Choose the Rheem Stellar 330 if you want the best overall premium gas storage system for a medium to larger household.
Choose the Rheem Stellar 360 if you need more performance and capacity for a larger household.
Choose the Rheem 4-Star 135L if you want a compact Rheem-branded replacement.
Choose the Vulcan 4-Star 135L if you want a value-focused compact gas storage system.
Choose a 160L or 170L gas storage system if 135L is not enough.
Choose an LPG model only if the property uses bottled gas.
Choose instant gas instead if you want a compact wall-mounted system and the property has suitable gas supply and water pressure.
For most customers, the safest starting point is Installed Today’s Gas Hot Water Systems category, then narrowing down by gas type, storage size and household demand.
Long-Tail FAQs
What is the best gas storage hot water system in 2024?
The Rheem Stellar 330 is the best overall gas storage hot water system to compare in 2024 for many medium to larger households. The Rheem Stellar 360 may suit higher-demand homes, while Vulcan 135L and Rheem 135L options suit compact replacements.
Is Rheem Stellar 330 worth it?
The Rheem Stellar 330 can be worth it if you want a premium natural gas storage system with strong hot water recovery and a familiar Rheem product pathway. It may be more system than a small household needs, so sizing should be checked first.
Is Vulcan gas hot water good?
Vulcan gas hot water systems can be a good choice for practical, value-focused replacement. They are especially worth comparing for rental properties, small to medium households and homes where a compact gas storage tank has worked well.
Is Rheem better than Vulcan?
Rheem may be better if brand recognition, warranty preference and premium options matter more. Vulcan may be better if upfront value is the priority. The better choice depends on gas type, household demand, installation location and budget.
Is a 135L gas storage system enough for a family?
A 135L gas storage system may suit some small to medium families with moderate use. Larger families, long showers, bath use or multiple bathrooms may need a 160L, 170L, 5-star storage or instant gas system.
Should I choose natural gas or LPG?
Choose natural gas if your property is connected to mains natural gas. Choose LPG if your property uses bottled gas. The two models are not interchangeable.
Is gas storage better than instant gas?
Gas storage may be better for like-for-like tank replacement and households that prefer stored hot water. Instant gas may be better if you want a compact wall-mounted system and the property has suitable gas supply, pipe sizing and water pressure.
Is gas storage cheaper to run than electric storage?
Gas storage may be cheaper to run in some homes, especially where natural gas is available. Running costs depend on gas prices, LPG costs, household usage, system efficiency and maintenance. Heat pump hot water should also be compared if running cost reduction is the main priority.
Can I buy a gas storage hot water system supply only?
Yes. Supply only is suitable if you already have your own licensed plumber or gas fitter arranged. The product price is for the unit only and does not include installation, valves, gas work, pipework changes, disposal or compliance upgrades unless selected separately.
Can I order a gas storage system supplied and installed?
Supplied-and-installed options may be available on selected gas storage systems in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Availability depends on the product, address, access, gas type, existing setup, pipe sizing, water pressure and required extras.
Final Word
The best gas storage hot water system in 2024 depends on the home.
The Rheem Stellar 330 is the strongest overall premium gas storage option for many homes. The Rheem Stellar 360 suits larger households with higher demand. Rheem 135L systems are practical compact replacements for customers who prefer Rheem. Vulcan 135L systems are strong value-focused options for budget-conscious replacements. Larger 160L and 170L systems are worth comparing when a compact tank is not enough.
Aquamax, Rinnai, Dux and Everhot-style gas storage systems may also be useful comparison points, especially when replacing older systems, but current availability should always be checked before ordering.
The main rule is simple: choose by gas type, household demand, tank size and installation suitability first. Brand and price come after that.
Start with Installed Today’s Gas Hot Water Systems, compare 130/135L Gas Hot Water Systems, review 160/170L Gas Hot Water Systems, or browse 5-Star Gas Hot Water Systems before ordering.