Gas vs Electric Water Heater: How to Choose The Right One
When you run out of hot water, you realize just how important it is to have a water heater that functions properly. Whether you want to take a shower, do your laundry, or wash your dishes, having hot water is always a priority. If you are in need of a new water heater, you may be contemplating a gas or electric water heater in terms of which may be best for your home.
Rather than have you guessing on this important decision, our team here at Boss Plumbing has all you need to know about gas and electric water heaters.
Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters: Basic Differences
As you start to consider gas water heaters and electric water heaters for your home or business, keep in mind that they have quite a few basic differences that could factor into your final decision.
Power
The most obvious difference involves how each is powered. Gas water heaters burn fuel that enters through a gas line, while electric water heaters generate their heat using electric resistance coils.
Size
Size may be another important area to consider when deciding which of these water heating systems will work best for your home. If you need to fit your water heater into a tight space, an electric water heater may be better, since they are usually smaller than their gas counterparts.
Upfront Cost
Of course, we know you will want to factor in the upfront cost before deciding which type of water heater you will purchase. Initially, you will likely pay more for a gas water heater than an electric water heater, often about $200 more. However, what you spend on the initial cost you may save later on, since gas water heaters tend to cost less to operate than electric water heaters.
Rather than just guess as to which type of water heating system would work best for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Boss Plumbing to get all your water heater questions answered by experienced professionals you can trust.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
Now that we’ve touched on some of the most basic differences between gas and electric water heaters, let’s dive into some of the other major factors that may influence your decision concerning these water heating systems.
Cost
As we noted earlier, you will usually spend between $100-$200 less to buy a gas water heater over an electric water heater. When doing your research, you will find water heater costs can vary significantly. Some units may cost only a few hundred dollars, while tankless water heating systems that are either gas or electric may cost you up to $2,000 to purchase.
Durability
When you think of how long you should expect your water heater to last and begin to compare durability between gas and electric water heaters, you will tend to notice it is a virtual tie between both types. A high-quality gas water heater that is properly maintained should last you at least 10 years, while a similar type of electric water heater may last you a year or two longer. As for tankless water heaters, they can last as long as 20 years.
Safety
While safety is always a concern for our customers when selecting a water heater for their home, we can say without hesitation that both gas and electric water heaters are generally very safe appliances. That being said, there are more safety issues associated with gas water heaters than electric models. Gas leaks or explosions are always possible with gas water heaters, so we recommend customers install carbon monoxide detectors for additional safety and peace of mind.
Energy Efficiency
If you want your water heater to be extremely energy efficient and thus give you a lower energy bill month after month, you may want to opt for an electric heat pump and tankless water heating system. When looking at units, always refer to the EF (energy factor) rating shown on the water heater. The higher the EF rating, the more energy-efficient your unit will be for your home.
If you do select a tankless water heating system, keep in mind that they are more expensive, are complicated to install, and can run out of hot water more frequently than standard water heaters.
Installation
When it comes to installation, we have to say that electric water heater installation is easier that gas water heaters. This is especially true if you are swapping out an electric water heater for a gas water heater, since your home or business will then require the running of new gas lines and the installation of proper venting.
Should you be simply getting the same type of gas water heater as you already have and just need it installed, you may get by with spending only around $500. However, should you want to convert from electric to gas, installation costs may exceed $2,000.
Water Heating Speed
Let’s face it, we know that when you need hot water for a shower, laundry, or washing your dishes, you want that hot water to be instantaneous. While there is very little difference in terms of how fast gas and electric water heaters deliver hot water, we give a slight nod to gas water heaters.
This is especially evident in their first hour of use and their recovery rate, meaning you’ll usually have hot water initially and also not have to wait on more hot water after your water heater has been going at it awhile.
Which Water Heater is Better for You?
Now that you know more about the many differences associated with gas vs electric water heater selection, consider installations and repairs when deciding which type of water heater is better for you and your home or business.
If you are thinking gas may be your best bet, remember that you might have to deal with a water heater pilot light that may go out from time to time, which could become a source of inconvenience for you and your family.
You should also think about the frequency of power outages your home has in a typical year. If you have very few outages, either a gas water heater or electric water heater should serve your needs quite well. However, if you live in an area that is prone to power outages more often than you care to remember, a gas water heater may be what you want.
Since we realize you are not a water heater expert, turn to our water heater pros here at Boss Plumbing to get the information needed so that you purchase the perfect water heater for your home.
Contact Us Today
If you are currently experiencing problems and you need water heater repair services, looking to replace your old water heater with a new one, convert a gas water heater to electric, or perhaps you are building a new home and wondering about the differences between gas and electric water heaters, contact us today here at Boss Plumbing to get answers to all your questions.
Once you place your trust in us and our team of experienced plumbers, you will soon discover that we can answer the toughest questions and help you decide whether a gas or electric water heater is best for your home or business.
