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11 Oct 2025

Switching from gas to a hot water heat pump: A smart move with The Cylinder Guy 

 

As energy costs rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are reconsidering their energy sources. One significant shift we are seeing at the Cylinder Guy is from gas hot water heating to a hot water heat pump (HWHP) hot water cylinder. This change is not just about cutting costs but also about embracing more sustainable energy solutions.  

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Why switch from gas to a hot water heat pump? 

Many customers prefer the option of a HWHP over gas due to the high ongoing costs associated with gas, when it comes time to replacing their hot water heating system. Even when considering the initial investment, HWHPs prove to be more economical in the long run and there are also many finance and financial support options now available for HWHPs.  

HWHPs are also highly efficient and environmentally friendly – primarily using renewable energy from the air outside to heat your water. Making it a great solution for households with big families and a great investment if you're looking to save money long term, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the efficiency of your hot water heating system. 

 

Rising costs of gas 

The primary reason we see for switching from gas to a HWHP is the escalating cost of gas. There are two types of gas used in homes: LPG (bottled gas) and natural gas (piped through the line). While natural gas was once an economical option, the line charges have been steadily increasing. What used to be a $20-$25 monthly line fee has now surged to $50-$60 in some areas around New Zealand, leading to an annual expense of over $600 just for line charges, regardless of usage. This significant increase in fixed costs makes gas less attractive as an energy source. 

Additionally, safety concerns have led to restrictions on gas deliveries in certain areas, such as steep driveways in cities like Dunedin. This limitation has further pushed homeowners to seek alternative hot water heating solutions. With the price of gas continuously rising, many are now exploring more cost-effective and sustainable options like HWHPs. 

 

Considerations before making the switch: 

  • Capacity: Choosing the right capacity is crucial, especially for households transitioning from continuous flow gas systems. For larger families, we recommend systems like Reclaim C02 Hot water heat pump, which can handle up to 600 Liters a day, ensuring no one runs out of hot water. There are also many other HWHP options to suit your individual needs. We recommend a split system where the cylinder and heat pump are separate units. This configuration allows for easy replacement of the heat pump at the end of its useful lifespan, and cylinder itself can last up to 20 years. This setup ensures long-term savings and efficient performance. 
  • Advanced features: Modern HWHPs come with advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile apps, allowing you to track and optimise your energy usage. These systems can be programmed to heat water during off-peak hours when you have a lower power charge, enabling you to maximise your efficiency and cost savings. 
  • Different hot water heat pumps available on the market: There are several different hot water heat pump models available in the New Zealand market. Each with their own set of feature and benefits, the choice for you between them often coming down to factors such as the refrigerant preference, climate, efficiency performance, space availability, and installation requirements.  Read more in our comprehensive comparison between hot water heat pumps available.

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If you decide to make the switch, the installation process when upgrading from gas to HWHP includes:

  • Site Visit: We inspect the current hot water system and discuss potential installation spots.
  • Installation: If feasible, we place the heat pump where the old unit was. Otherwise, we relocate it to a more suitable position, reusing existing pipework when possible.
  • Electrical Setup: New, more robust electrical cables are installed to support the HWHP, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

Switching from gas to a hot water heat pump is a smart move for both your wallet and the environment. At The Cylinder Guy, we provide expert guidance and top-notch installation services to ensure a seamless transition. Embrace the future of hot water heating with a hot water heat pump hot water cylinder and enjoy the benefits of cost and energy efficient hot water heating. Even if you decide not to switch to a hot water heat pump, we can still assist you with transitioning to electric, mains pressure, wetback or outdoor hot water systems, offering the same level of expertise and quality service that we are known for.

 

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

 

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