Is Gas Water Heater better than an Electric Storage Heater? A HDB case study
Is Gas Water Heater better than an Electric Storage Heater?
A HDB case study
When selecting a water heater for your HDB flat in Singapore, the two main options are gas water heaters and electric storage heaters. Each type has unique installation requirements, operational costs, and benefits, making the choice dependent on several factors, including the age of the flat, installation costs, and long-term savings. In this article, we break down the pros and cons of both types of water heaters, specifically in the context of Singapore’s HDB flats, which make up 80% of housing.
Old HDB Flats (20 Years or Older)
Electric Storage Heater
Installation Requirements:
- Location: Electric storage heaters can be installed in the common bathroom, master bathroom, or yard. However, it must not be placed directly under waste pipes. For faster hot water delivery, install it close to the bathroom.
- Hot water piping: Hot water pipes must be installed in both bathrooms, along with a bath mixer and shower set. This water service installation (WSI) is regulated by the Public Utilities Act and must be carried out by a Licensed Plumber, costing around S$1,000.
- Electrical work: If a dedicated 20A electrical point is not available, it must be installed. This can cost approximately S$550. Additionally, equipotential bonding must be added to the pipes, which requires approval from HDB and SP Group.
- Compliance: Installation must follow PUB SS636:2018 for water services and EMA SS638:2018 for electrical installations.
Pros:
- Higher water pressure (108–145 psi depending on model) due to the use of check valves.
- Offers a “hotel-like” shower experience.
- Can store hot water for use during power outages.
- Flexibility in installation location.
Cons:
- Higher installation costs due to the need for additional plumbing and electrical work.
- Unlicensed handymen may omit essential parts like check valves, resulting in lower pressure.
- Higher operating costs (about 10% more than gas).
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent sediment build-up in the tank.
Gas Water Heater
Installation Requirements:
- Location: Must be installed in the kitchen or yard, as regulations prohibit installation in bathrooms.
- Gas piping: City Energy offers free gas pipe installation, reducing upfront costs.
- Hot water piping: Similar to electric heaters, hot and cold water pipes need to be installed from the kitchen or yard to both bathrooms, costing around S$1,000.
- Safety: A Licensed Gas Service Worker must issue a certificate confirming that the installation is safe for use.
- Compliance: Must adhere to PUB SS636:2018, EMA SS638:2018, and SS608:2015 for gas installations.
Pros:
- Lower running costs, as gas is cheaper than electricity in Singapore.
- Unlimited hot water supply.
- Free gas pipe installation from City Energy.
Cons:
- Lower water pressure, which results in a lower flow rate.
- Hot water flow may temporarily drop when a second bathroom is in use.
- Installation is restricted to the kitchen or yard.
- Considered safer when installed outdoors.
Newer HDB Flats (BTO)
Electric Storage Heater
Installation Requirements:
- Location: Typically installed in the common bathroom with pre-installed pipework.
- Electrical work: A connection to a 2.5mm² wire from the distribution box is required. This ensures compliance with SS638:2018, avoiding any risk of cable overload.
- Compliance: Must follow PUB SS636:2018 and EMA SS638:2018 for safe installation.
Pros:
- Higher water pressure (108–145 psi) resulting from the use of check valves.
- Easy and straightforward installation, as newer flats often come with pre-installed infrastructure.
- Provides a “hotel-like” shower experience.
- Generally safer for households with small children.
Cons:
- Higher electricity consumption leads to increased long-term costs.
Gas Water Heater
Installation Requirements:
- Location: Must be installed in the kitchen or yard.
- Gas piping: Gas pipe installation is free of charge, courtesy of City Energy.
- Water piping: Only hot water pipes from the kitchen or yard to the bathrooms are needed, which costs approximately S$500.
- Compliance: Must adhere to PUB SS636:2018, EMA SS638:2018, and SS608:2015+A3:2023 for gas installations.
Pros:
- Lower running costs due to the lower cost of gas compared to electricity.
- Unlimited hot water supply.
- Free gas pipe installation.
Cons:
- Lower water pressure.
- Hot water supply may fluctuate if multiple bathrooms are in use simultaneously.
- Installation location is restricted to the kitchen or yard.
Conclusion: Which is Better for HDB Flats?
For Older HDB Flats:
Electric storage heaters offer more flexibility in terms of installation location and provide higher water pressure, delivering a luxurious shower experience. However, gas water heaters are more economical in the long run, though they require more extensive installation work and certification. If long-term savings are a priority, a gas water heater is a better option, but if convenience and installation flexibility matter more, an electric storage heater would be the better choice.
For Newer HDB Flats (BTO):
Gas water heaters are easier and cheaper to install in newer flats due to the free gas pipe installation and simpler pipework requirements. However, electric storage heaters are more familiar and easier to integrate into newer flats with pre-existing infrastructure. While electric heaters provide higher pressure and a more luxurious shower experience, gas heaters save on energy costs in the long term.
In summary, gas water heaters are more economical for long-term use, but electric storage heaters offer more flexibility in installation and higher water pressure, making them ideal for those prioritising comfort and ease of installation.
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