All information provided in this article was correct at the time of publishing (July 2024)
Gas Heater Buying Guide: Types, Sizing and Running Costs
30 June 2024Blog4 min
Choosing the right gas heater for your home depends on more than the appliance itself. Your home’s size and layout, insulation, local climate, existing gas infrastructure and installation requirements can all affect which natural gas heating option may be suitable.
This guide covers common types of gas heaters for Australian homes, including ducted gas heating, gas wall heaters, gas space heaters, gas fireplaces and hydronic heating. It also explains heater sizing, heating capacity, gas heating efficiency and the factors that can affect gas heater running costs.
Key Summary
- Heater selection: Compare ducted gas heating, gas wall heaters, space heaters, gas fireplaces and hydronic heating. The right option depends on the rooms you want to heat, your home’s layout, insulation, climate and advice from a licensed gasfitter and MJ per hour capacity.
- Professional installation: A licensed gasfitter is required for gas appliance work. They can advise on installation, ventilation, flueing, capacity and ongoing maintenance for your selected heating system.
- Safety requirements: Install CO alarms, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and your installer’s safety advice. Never use an outdoor gas heater indoors or in an enclosed space.
- Rebates: Rebates, eligibility requirements and availability vary by state and may change. Check AGN’s current rebates information and applicable terms before making a purchase decision.
Before installation, discuss your home’s needs with a licensed gasfitter. Correct sizing, professional installation and maintenance in line with the manufacturer’s instructions can support safe operation and help maintain your system over its service life.
To help you work out what’s best for your place, we spoke to heating expert Brent Vrdoljak of leading gas heating retailer Rinnai. With his help, we put together this handy guide with everything you need to know about buying a natural gas heater.
Heating types
Gas heaters are available in several formats, including ducted systems, space heaters, wall heaters, gas fireplaces and hydronic heating. Each option has different installation, ventilation, capacity and maintenance requirements. A licensed gasfitter can advise which type may suit your home and local requirements.
Ducted gas heating
Ducted gas heating uses a central unit and ductwork to distribute heat to multiple rooms. Some systems can be zoned so selected areas are heated at different times. Installation scope and running costs vary with the home layout, system capacity, number of zones, insulation, usage patterns and applicable energy tariff.
Gas space heaters and gas wall heaters
Gas space heaters and gas wall heaters are designed to heat a single room or a defined area. Their suitability depends on the room size, appliance placement, ventilation, flueing requirements and the way the space is used. A licensed gasfitter should confirm the suitable appliance type and capacity for your home.
Gas log fire
Gas fireplaces, sometimes called gas log fires, are designed to provide room heating and a flame-effect feature. Before choosing one, discuss room size, location, flueing, ventilation and installation requirements with a licensed gasfitter.
Hydronic heating
Hydronic heating circulates heated water through radiators or pipework installed beneath the floor. Because these systems do not use fans to distribute heat, they may suit households that prefer lower air movement. System design, installation requirements and suitability depend on the building design and configuration. Installation requirements and suitability depend on the building design, system configuration and advice from appropriately licensed professionals.
Outdoor heating
Whether you’re throwing a party or just relaxing in your backyard, outdoor gas heaters use radiant heat to create warmth an atmosphere to outdoor spaces. They come in a number of shapes, sizes and styles to suit your space’s requirements. These types of heaters should only ever be used in outdoor areas.
Outdoor gas heaters use radiant heat to give warmth to outdoor spaces.
Brett explains that there are pros and cons for each, and your choice will depend on factors such as budget, whether you own the property and the space you’re warming.
‘If you’re in the market for a ducted heating system, my biggest tip is to look for one with a simple, easy to use control wall. People get so confused by the little icons, and probably lose the manual after a few years, that they’re not even using many of the features.
‘A gas fireplace is also a great option if you’ve got an existing space you’d like to revitalise.’
What size gas heater do I need?
Are you trying to warm an open plan living room or your entire home? Larger areas require more heating power to warm efficiently, so this will affect the type of heater that is recommended to you. Brent says the place to start is with the space you’re looking to heat.
'People are embracing an open-plan living style more than ever, but heating large spaces like these can be a real challenge. Gas heating is a great solution in these types of applications because it allows you to heat the space quickly and cost-effectively.'
The room size and your local climate will determine what size heater you need for the job. An appropriately sized gas heater is important. Heater capacity is commonly measured in megajoules per hour (MJ/h), but the suitable capacity depends on room dimensions, ceiling height, insulation, window area, local climate and the temperature you want to maintain. A lower capacity heater will still heat the room but will take longer to do it.
A licensed gasfitter or qualified appliance professional should assess the space and confirm suitable heater capacity before installation.
What affects gas heater sizing and running costs?
Brett says there are several structural factors that can contribute to your home heating’s energy and cost efficiency. These will influence the size of the heater your installer recommends for you.
The following factors will play a part:
- Roof and wall insulation
- Floor and window coverings
- Whether your house is on a concrete slab or stumps
Before you kick off your quest for the best gas heater, we recommend saving yourself time and getting in touch with an appliance retailer. They’ll be able to answer any questions you might have, measure up your space, and make a product recommendation for you.
Rebates are currently available for customers in SA, NSW and QLD. For more info, simply call our Natural Gas Rebates Team on 1300 001 001 (Option 7). Terms and Conditions apply.
Terms, conditions, and eligibility requirements apply. Visit here for complete details and application process.
If you’d like to find out more about what’s involved in getting natural gas heating installed at your place, check out our list of appliance retailers who can assist you in making your purchase decision. Professional installation by licensed gas fitters is required for all gas heating systems. Ensure proper ventilation and regular maintenance for safe operation. Consult your installer about specific safety requirements for your chosen heating type.
Note: Gas connection availability varies by state and local regulations. Victorian customers should note that new gas connections for homes requiring planning permits have been restricted since January 1, 2024.
FAQs
Victoria: Gas heaters themselves are not being banned outright, but the state is moving towards electrification. From 1 January 2027, all new homes must be all-electric, meaning no new gas connections for heating, hot water, or cooking. For existing homes, gas heaters can still be repaired, but rental properties must replace gas heaters with electric options at end-of-life from March 2027. Owner-occupiers can keep and repair existing heaters, but when they fail beyond repair, replacement with electric is encouraged, not mandated (except for rentals).
Other states: No equivalent phase-out policies have been announced yet, but ACT and some councils are considering similar measures. NSW and SA currently allow new gas connections.
Reference:
Gas hot water systems to be phased out of Victorian homes under new energy reforms - ABC News
Victoria’s New Gas Ban: What It Means for Property Investors, Renters & the Future of Housing
Victoria extends gas ban to all new homes and hot water systems, sets strict rules to electrify rentals
Generally no, if a planning permit is required. Since 1 January 2024, new homes, subdivisions, and apartments that need a planning permit cannot connect to the gas network.
Exceptions:
- Homes that don’t require a planning permit can still connect.
- Existing homes and renovations are unaffected.
Future trend: From 2027, all new homes must be all-electric, regardless of permit status.
Reference:
Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap
Gas Ban In Victoria: If You're Affected
Questions Answered, New Connection | Australian Gas Networks
It depends on location, cost, and convenience:
Natural gas:
• Delivered via pipelines, so it’s continuous and low-maintenance.
• Generally cheaper per unit of energy than LPG if you’re already connected.
• Lower carbon emissions than LPG.
LPG:
• Portable and ideal for rural/off-grid areas.
• Burns hotter, so it can heat faster.
• Requires cylinder refills and monitoring.
Cost: Natural gas usually wins in cities; LPG can be more expensive per MJ but typically avoids network supply charges. Some LPG suppliers may have cylinder fees.
Reference:
Natural Gas vs LPG: Which Is Best For Your Home? - Hardie & Co
LPG vs Natural Gas in Australia: What You Need to Know
What Is LPG? | Canstar
Yes, if installed and maintained correctly by a professional. For indoor heating, flued gas heaters are the safer option. They use a vent or flue to direct exhaust gases outside, unlike unflued types that release gases indoors.
Safety measures:
• Use only heaters certified for indoor use.
• Ensure proper ventilation, especially for unflued heaters, which release combustion gases into the room.
• Install a CO alarm and have heaters serviced by a licensed gasfitter every two years.
• Never use outdoor heaters indoors.
Risks: Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, gas leaks, and fire hazards. CO is odourless and can be fatal in high concentrations.
Reference:
Are Gas Heaters Safe To Use Indoors?
Gas heating - health and safety issues | Better Health Channel
25 Gas Heater Safety Tips
Want to know more? Give us a call on 1300 001 001 Share on Facebook
