Gas heaters vs. Electric heaters: which is more efficient?

When winter approaches in Australia, you need a reliable and efficient heating system for your home. While there are various styles of heater available, the question of which fuel source to choose will boil down to gas versus electric. In this blog post, we take a look at the efficiency, and cost, of gas and electric heaters to help you decide which will be best for you.

Gas heaters, whether portable or installed, are popular in many Australian homes. They are known for their ability to heat a room quickly and provide a consistent level of warmth. One of the advantages of gas heaters, for many years, is that it was a cheaper fuel source than electricity, making gas heaters a cost-effective option in the long run. However, gas prices have risen greatly in recent years in some States and Territories, so depending on where you live, it may no longer be a cheaper option.

Gas heaters require a gas line, which can be a limitation if your home doesn't have one. If you do have gas connections, they will be in fixed positions in a couple of rooms, so you will be restricted in terms of where you can place a heater. Additionally, they need regular maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency, adding to the overall cost.

It should also be noted that there are increasing restrictions on the installation of gas appliances in various parts of Australia, for both health and environmental reasons. These range from gas heaters not being allowed to be used in bedrooms, to the forbidding of any new gas connections at all in new build homes.

Electric heaters are versatile and easy to use. They come in various types, including fan heaters, panel heaters, and radiant heaters, each suitable for different heating needs. Electric heaters are 100% efficient at the point of use, meaning all the electricity they consume is converted into heat. They are easy to install, requiring only a power outlet, and need less maintenance than gas heaters. On the downside, electric heaters may take longer to heat a room compared to gas heaters.

In terms of raw energy efficiency, electric heaters win as they convert all consumed energy into heat. However, when considering the ability to heat a room quickly, gas heaters may come out on top. Your choice between a gas and an electric heater should depend on your specific needs, the availability of a gas line, and your budget. At Appliances Online, we offer a wide range of both gas and electric heaters, catering to all your heating needs.

Remember, an efficient heating system is not just about the type of heater but also about how well your home is insulated and the way you use the heater. For more advice on choosing the right heater for your home, feel free to contact our expert team at Appliances Online. We are committed to helping you find the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for your home heating needs.

Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive your new gas opr electric heater the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old heater away to be recycled, at no charge, if it's already safely disconnected. If you have any questions, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.