Hot Water Cylinder vs. Instant Gas Hot Water – Which One Is Right for You?

When choosing a hot water system, homeowners often compare traditional hot water cylinders with instant (continuous flow) gas hot water systems. Both options have their advantages, but the right choice depends on your household’s water usage, energy efficiency needs, and budget.

What’s the Difference?

• Hot Water Cylinders (Storage Systems)

  • Stores a set amount of heated water, ready for use.

  • Available in electric, gas, and solar models.

  • Provides consistent hot water pressure.

  • Ideal for larger households that use hot water at the same time.

• Instant Gas Hot Water Systems (Continuous Flow)

  • Heats water only when needed—no storage tank required.

  • Runs on natural gas or LPG, making it energy-efficient.

  • Provides endless hot water but with slightly lower flow rates.

  • Space-saving design, perfect for small homes or apartments.

Pros & Cons of Each System

Feature	Hot Water Cylinder	Instant Gas Hot Water
Hot Water Supply	Limited to tank size	Unlimited (on demand)
Energy Efficiency	Can lose heat over time	Heats only when needed
Installation Cost	Lower upfront cost	Higher initial setup
Operating Costs	Can be higher (depends on energy source)	Lower with gas
Space Required	Needs a cylinder space	Compact wall-mounted unit

Should You Upgrade?

If you want steady water pressure and a simple system, a hot water cylinder is a great choice. If you prefer on-demand hot water and lower running costs, an instant gas hot water system may be the better option.

At DR. CYLINDER, we offer expert advice, installation, and upgrades for both systems.