Best LPG Hot Water Systems in Australia 2024: Continuous Flow vs Gas Storage

LPG hot water systems can be a practical option for homes that do not have natural gas but still want gas hot water. They are commonly used in rural homes, acreage properties, granny flats, off-grid homes and properties where bottled LPG is already used for cooking or heating.

The best LPG hot water system depends on household size, number of bathrooms, shower habits, gas bottle setup, water pressure, gas pipe sizing, installation location and whether you want continuous flow or gas storage hot water.

Installed Today helps customers compare gas hot water systems, instant gas hot water systems and 26L instant gas hot water systems online. Supply-only ordering is available across major Australian metro areas, with selected supplied-and-installed options available on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where shown.

Quick Answer

An LPG hot water system may suit a home that does not have natural gas but has a suitable LPG bottle setup and licensed gas fitting available.

For most homes:

• LPG continuous flow systems can suit households wanting compact, on-demand hot water

• LPG storage systems can suit homes wanting a familiar tank-style gas replacement

• 16L LPG instant gas systems may suit smaller households or lower demand

• 20L LPG instant gas systems may suit moderate demand

• 26L LPG instant gas systems may suit higher demand, but only where gas supply, pipe sizing and water pressure are suitable

• LPG storage systems can suit homes replacing an existing LPG storage tank like-for-like

• Natural gas and LPG are not interchangeable

• Gas work must be completed by a licensed gas fitter

A 26L LPG system is not automatically the best choice for every home. Bigger is not always better, and multiple outlets can still exceed the system’s capacity if too many showers, taps or appliances are used at the same time.

What Is an LPG Hot Water System?

An LPG hot water system uses liquefied petroleum gas to heat water. LPG is commonly supplied through gas bottles rather than a natural gas mains connection.

LPG hot water systems are available in two main types:

• LPG continuous flow hot water systems

• LPG gas storage hot water systems

An LPG continuous flow system heats water as it passes through the unit when a hot tap is turned on. An LPG storage system heats and stores water in a tank for later use.

LPG can be useful where natural gas is not available, but the system must be selected and installed correctly. The gas type, gas bottle setup, pipe sizing, regulator, water pressure and installation location all matter.

LPG vs Natural Gas Hot Water

LPG and natural gas are different fuels. A natural gas hot water system cannot simply be connected to LPG unless it is specifically designed or correctly converted by qualified trades where allowed by the manufacturer and regulations.

Before ordering, confirm:

• Does the home use LPG bottles?

• Is there an existing LPG regulator?

• Is the selected unit an LPG model?

• Is the gas supply suitable for the unit size?

• Is gas pipe sizing suitable?

• Is water pressure suitable?

• Is there a compliant outdoor location?

• Will a licensed gas fitter install and certify the work?

Customers comparing LPG models can look at options such as the Rinnai Infinity B26 LPG Gas Hot Water System, Rheem 26L LPG Gas Hot Water System, Rheem 20L LPG Gas Hot Water System, Rinnai Infinity B20 LPG Gas Hot Water System and Rinnai Infinity B16 LPG Gas Hot Water System.

LPG Continuous Flow Hot Water Systems

LPG continuous flow systems, also called LPG instant gas hot water systems, heat water on demand.

They do not store hot water in a tank. Instead, water passes through the heat exchanger and is heated by the gas burner when a hot tap is opened.

LPG continuous flow may suit:

• Homes without natural gas

• Properties already using LPG bottles

• Households wanting a compact wall-mounted system

• Homes with suitable water pressure

• Properties with suitable gas pipe sizing

• Customers replacing an existing LPG continuous flow unit

• Homes where a large storage tank is not practical

The main benefit is that the system heats water when needed. However, the unit still has a maximum flow rate. It is not unlimited in the sense that every tap can run at once without limits.

LPG Storage Hot Water Systems

LPG storage hot water systems heat and store water in a tank.

They may suit:

• Like-for-like replacement of an existing LPG storage system

• Homes with suitable LPG supply

• Customers wanting stored hot water

• Properties where continuous flow pipe sizing or pressure is not ideal

• Homes where a tank location is already available

Storage systems can run out if the stored hot water is used faster than the system can recover. If your old LPG storage system regularly ran out, do not automatically replace it with the same size without checking household demand.

LPG storage options available through Installed Today include products such as the Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System and Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System.

LPG Continuous Flow vs LPG Storage

Choose LPG Continuous Flow If:

• You want a compact wall-mounted system

• You have suitable water pressure

• Gas pipe sizing is suitable

• You want hot water heated on demand

• You are replacing an existing instant LPG unit

• You want to avoid storing hot water in a tank

• Outdoor wall space is available

Choose LPG Storage If:

• You are replacing LPG storage like-for-like

• You prefer stored hot water

• The tank location is already suitable

• Water pressure or pipe sizing makes continuous flow less practical

• You want a familiar gas storage replacement

• Your installer confirms the gas setup is suitable

The better option depends on the property. A licensed gas fitter should confirm gas supply, pipe sizing, regulator suitability and installation requirements before purchase.

Best LPG Instant Gas Hot Water Systems to Compare

There is no single best LPG hot water system for every home. The right model depends on usage, bathrooms, bottle setup, pipe sizing, water pressure and installation location.

Rinnai Infinity B26 LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rinnai Infinity B26 LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit larger households comparing a 26L LPG continuous flow option.

It may suit:

• Homes using LPG bottles

• Medium to larger households

• Properties with suitable gas pipe sizing

• Homes with suitable water pressure

• Customers wanting a compact external wall-mounted system

• Like-for-like replacement of an existing 26L LPG unit

For 26L systems, gas supply and water pressure are critical. A larger system will not perform properly if the property cannot support it.

Rheem 26L LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rheem 26L LPG Gas Hot Water System is another LPG continuous flow option for higher-demand homes where installation conditions are suitable.

It may suit:

• LPG homes with higher hot water demand

• Multiple bathroom homes where simultaneous use is moderate

• Outdoor installations

• Customers comparing Rheem LPG continuous flow systems

• Homes where gas pipe sizing has been checked

Multiple outlets can still exceed capacity. If showers, kitchen and laundry hot water run at the same time, performance depends on flow rate, water pressure and gas supply.

Rheem 20L LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rheem 20L LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit smaller to medium households with moderate hot water demand.

It may suit:

• Small to medium homes

• Moderate shower demand

• LPG bottle properties

• Outdoor wall-mounted locations

• Customers who may not need a 26L unit

A 20L model may be more appropriate than a 26L system where household demand is lower or the property setup is better suited to a smaller unit.

Rinnai Infinity B20 LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rinnai Infinity B20 LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit customers comparing a mid-size LPG continuous flow model.

It may suit:

• Smaller to medium households

• Homes with LPG supply

• Moderate hot water demand

• External wall-mounted replacement

• Customers comparing Rinnai LPG systems

Sizing should still be confirmed against bathrooms, fixtures, shower habits and water pressure.

Rinnai Infinity B16 LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rinnai Infinity B16 LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit lower-demand LPG applications.

It may suit:

• Smaller households

• Single bathroom homes

• Granny flats

• Lower simultaneous hot water use

• Like-for-like replacement of a small LPG continuous flow unit

A 16L unit may not suit homes where multiple showers or fixtures are used at once.

Best LPG Storage Hot Water Systems to Compare

LPG storage can still be practical where a tank-style system suits the home and the existing gas storage setup is suitable.

Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Rheem 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit customers replacing an existing LPG storage hot water unit.

It may suit:

• LPG storage replacements

• Homes wanting a familiar tank-style system

• Properties with suitable outdoor tank location

• Households with moderate stored hot water demand

• Customers comparing Rheem LPG storage options

If the old 135L storage system ran out often, household demand should be reviewed before choosing the same size.

Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System

The Vulcan 4-Star 135L LPG Gas Hot Water System may suit LPG homes comparing storage tank replacement options.

It may suit:

• Like-for-like LPG storage replacement

• Homes with existing gas storage location

• Customers wanting a tank-style gas system

• Properties where continuous flow is not the preferred option

Gas type, pipework, valves, drainage and installation location should be checked before ordering.

What Size LPG Hot Water System Do You Need?

The right LPG system size depends on how your household uses hot water.

Consider:

• Number of people in the home

• Number of bathrooms

• Shower length and frequency

• Whether showers run at the same time

• Bath use

• Kitchen and laundry hot water use

• Existing system performance

• Whether the old system ran out

• Gas bottle setup

• Gas pipe sizing

• Water pressure

• Distance from unit to outlets

For LPG continuous flow, common sizes include 16L, 20L and 26L systems.

For LPG storage, common domestic sizes include around 135L, though suitability depends on household usage.

A larger system is not automatically better. The property must be able to support the gas load and water flow.

LPG Bottle Setup and Gas Supply

LPG hot water performance depends on more than the hot water unit.

The LPG supply setup may include:

• Gas bottles

• Regulator

• Changeover valve

• Pipework

• Bottle location

• Appliance gas load

• Other LPG appliances

• Delivery access

• Ventilation and clearances

If the home also uses LPG for cooking, heating or other appliances, the gas fitter must consider the total gas load.

For larger continuous flow systems, gas supply and pipe sizing are especially important.

LPG Running Costs

LPG hot water running costs depend on several variables.

These include:

• LPG bottle prices

• Delivery fees

• Bottle rental or service charges

• Household usage

• Shower length

• Number of occupants

• System size

• Continuous flow vs storage

• Other LPG appliances

• Local climate

• Water temperature settings

• Maintenance condition

It is not safe to assume LPG is always cheaper than electric, heat pump or natural gas in every property. LPG can be a practical option where natural gas is unavailable, but total cost depends on usage and local LPG supply costs.

Customers comparing alternatives may also consider electric hot water systems, instant electric hot water systems and heat pump hot water systems.

LPG vs Electric Hot Water

LPG and electric hot water systems suit different homes.

LPG Hot Water May Suit:

• Homes without natural gas

• Properties already using LPG bottles

• Rural or acreage properties

• Customers wanting gas continuous flow

• Homes with suitable gas pipe sizing and water pressure

• Customers replacing an existing LPG unit

Electric Hot Water May Suit:

• Homes without gas

• Simple like-for-like electric replacements

• Properties where LPG bottle setup is not practical

• Customers wanting a familiar storage tank

• Smaller homes, depending on tank size

Electric storage systems are available in larger household sizes such as 250L electric hot water systems, 315L electric hot water systems and 400L electric hot water systems.

LPG vs Heat Pump Hot Water

A heat pump hot water system can be a useful alternative for homes that do not have natural gas and want an efficient electric storage-style option.

LPG May Suit:

• Homes already using LPG

• Customers wanting continuous flow gas hot water

• Properties with suitable gas bottle setup

• Homes with suitable gas pipe sizing and water pressure

• Rural or off-grid-style homes where LPG is already used

Heat Pump May Suit:

• Homes wanting an efficient electric option

• Properties without gas

• Customers moving away from LPG

• Homes with outdoor space

• Locations with clear airflow

• Properties where condensate drainage can be managed

• Homes with suitable electrical supply

• Solar PV homes where timer operation and usage suit

Heat pumps are not automatically best for every home. Outdoor space, airflow, condensate drainage, electrical requirements and noise placement all need to be checked.

Customers can compare heat pump hot water systems, including medium heat pump hot water systems from 200L to 280L and large heat pump hot water systems over 280L.

Installation Requirements for LPG Hot Water

LPG hot water installation must be completed by licensed trades where required.

Gas work must be completed by a licensed gas fitter. Plumbing work should be completed by a licensed plumber where required. Electrical work must be completed by a licensed electrician where required.

Installation may involve checking:

• LPG bottle location

• Gas regulator suitability

• Changeover setup

• Gas pipe sizing

• Appliance gas load

• Water pressure

• Hot water demand

• Outdoor location

• Ventilation and clearances

• Temperature control requirements

• Valves

• Drainage

• Old unit removal

• Compliance documentation

• Manufacturer installation instructions

External gas units are designed for outdoor installation unless the specific model is approved for internal flued installation.

Do not install, modify or connect LPG hot water systems yourself.

Maintenance Considerations

Maintenance requirements depend on the system type, water quality and manufacturer instructions.

LPG hot water maintenance may include:

• Checking for visible leaks

• Keeping the area clear and ventilated

• Monitoring temperature stability

• Checking for error codes

• Watching for poor ignition

• Checking hot water flow

• Servicing by licensed trades where required

• Replacing serviceable parts where required

• Checking storage tank valves where applicable

• Following manufacturer guidance

If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply if safe to do so, avoid ignition sources and contact a licensed gas fitter or emergency service as appropriate.

Common LPG Hot Water Problems

Common issues can include:

• No hot water

• Temperature fluctuation

• Unit not igniting

• Error codes

• Low hot water flow

• LPG bottle empty or switched off

• Regulator issue

• Gas supply problem

• Undersized gas pipework

• Water pressure issue

• Storage tank running out

• Valve problems

• Ageing unit

Some problems may be repairable. Others may mean replacement is more practical, especially if the system is old, leaking, undersized or no longer suited to the home.

Installed Today is positioned as an online supplier of hot water systems, water filters and pumps, with selected supplied-and-installed options on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where shown. General repair diagnosis, emergency plumbing and ongoing servicing should be handled by licensed trades where required.

Brisbane and Gold Coast Considerations

In Brisbane and Gold Coast homes, LPG hot water may be relevant where natural gas is not available or where the property already uses LPG.

Common considerations include:

• LPG bottle location

• Delivery access

• Side access

• Outdoor wall space

• Existing regulator and pipework

• Gas pipe sizing

• Water pressure

• Coastal exposure on the Gold Coast

• Existing hot water type

• Whether the replacement is like-for-like

• Compliance upgrades

• Old unit removal

Selected supplied-and-installed options are available on eligible Installed Today products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where shown. Availability depends on the product, address and installation requirements.

Supply-Only vs Supplied-and-Installed

Installed Today offers supply-only ordering across major Australian metro areas. This can suit customers who already have a licensed installer organised and want to order the product online.

Selected supplied-and-installed options are available on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Availability depends on the product, address and installation requirements.

For supply-only products, the listed product price generally covers the product only.

It does not usually include:

• Installation labour

• Plumbing alterations

• Electrical work

• Gas work

• LPG bottle supply

• LPG bottle rental

• Regulator upgrades

• Gas pipe upgrades

• New valves

• Pipework changes

• Drainage changes

• Tempering valve upgrades

• Pressure limiting valve upgrades

• Expansion control valves

• Old unit removal

• Disposal

• Compliance upgrades

• Concrete bases or slab work

• Flue kits unless listed

• Temperature controllers unless listed

• Relocation of the system

• Rebate administration

• Site assessment

For LPG systems, confirm the gas type, bottle setup, regulator, gas pipe sizing, water pressure, clearances and installation suitability with a licensed gas fitter before ordering.

Common LPG Hot Water Buying Mistakes

Ordering Natural Gas Instead of LPG

Natural gas and LPG are not interchangeable. Always choose the correct gas type.

Choosing a 26L System Without Checking Gas Supply

A 26L LPG system may need more gas flow than the existing setup can provide. Gas pipe sizing and regulator suitability should be checked first.

Assuming Continuous Flow Means Unlimited Demand

Continuous flow systems heat on demand, but every unit has a maximum flow rate. Multiple fixtures can still exceed capacity.

Ignoring LPG Bottle Costs

LPG running costs depend on bottle pricing, delivery, rental or service fees and usage.

Replacing Like-for-Like When the Old System Was Too Small

If the old system ran out or temperature fluctuated, the size and setup should be reviewed.

Assuming External Units Can Be Installed Indoors

External gas hot water systems are designed for outdoor installation unless the model is specifically approved for internal flued installation.

Forgetting Supply-Only Exclusions

Supply-only pricing generally covers the product only unless installation or extras are clearly selected or listed.

Before Ordering Checklist

Before choosing an LPG hot water system, check:

• Does the home use LPG bottles?

• Is the selected unit an LPG model?

• Is the existing unit LPG storage or LPG continuous flow?

• Is the replacement like-for-like?

• How many people live in the home?

• How many bathrooms are used daily?

• Are showers used at the same time?

• Does the household use a bath?

• Did the old system run out of hot water?

• Is gas pipe sizing suitable?

• Is the regulator suitable?

• Are other LPG appliances connected?

• Is water pressure suitable?

• Is there a compliant outdoor location?

• Are ventilation and clearances suitable?

• Is a tempering valve or temperature control device required?

• Are temperature controllers required?

• Is old unit removal included or separate?

• Is the product supply-only or supplied-and-installed?

• Has a licensed gas fitter confirmed suitability?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best LPG hot water system?

The best LPG hot water system depends on household size, gas bottle setup, water pressure, gas pipe sizing and whether you want continuous flow or storage. Popular options include LPG continuous flow systems from Rinnai and Rheem, plus LPG storage systems from Rheem and Vulcan.

Is LPG hot water good for homes without natural gas?

Yes, LPG can be a practical option where natural gas is unavailable and the property has a suitable LPG bottle setup. Suitability should be confirmed by a licensed gas fitter.

Is LPG the same as natural gas?

No. LPG and natural gas are different. The hot water unit must match the gas type.

Is LPG continuous flow better than LPG storage?

LPG continuous flow can suit homes wanting compact, on-demand hot water, while LPG storage can suit like-for-like tank replacements. The better option depends on gas supply, water pressure, household demand and installation location.

What size LPG instant gas system do I need?

Common sizes include 16L, 20L and 26L. The right size depends on bathrooms, shower habits, simultaneous use, gas supply and water pressure. Bigger is not automatically better.

Can a 26L LPG hot water system run multiple showers?

It may support higher demand than smaller systems, but performance still depends on gas pipe sizing, regulator setup, water pressure and simultaneous use. Multiple outlets can still exceed capacity.

Can I install an LPG hot water system myself?

No. LPG hot water installation involves gas fitting and plumbing work. Gas work must be completed by a licensed gas fitter.

Does supply-only pricing include LPG bottles?

No. Supply-only product pricing generally covers the hot water unit only. LPG bottles, regulator upgrades, gas fitting, plumbing labour and other installation items are not usually included unless clearly listed or selected.

Does Installed Today supply LPG hot water systems?

Installed Today offers supply-only ordering for selected LPG hot water systems across major Australian metro areas, with selected supplied-and-installed options available on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where shown.

Final Word

LPG hot water can be a practical option for homes without natural gas, especially where the property already uses LPG bottles and the gas supply setup is suitable.

Continuous flow LPG systems can suit homes wanting compact, on-demand hot water. LPG storage systems can suit customers replacing an existing tank-style gas system. The best choice depends on household demand, gas pipe sizing, water pressure, LPG bottle setup, installation location and whether the old system kept up.

Installed Today makes it easy to compare gas hot water systems, instant gas hot water systems, 26L instant gas hot water systems and broader hot water systems online.

For supply-only orders, confirm LPG suitability, bottle setup, gas pipe sizing, regulator requirements, water pressure and installation location with a licensed gas fitter before purchasing.