24 May Comparing Gas vs Electric Water Heaters: Which One Should You Choose?
Water heaters have revolutionized our lives, providing a huge convenience in our daily lives. When choosing the right water heater for your home, two main options are gas or electric. Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat water, while electric water heaters use electricity. While both types have benefits, choosing the right one depends on your preferences and needs.
How Does an Electric Water Heater Work?
An electric water heater is a highly efficient option for those who prefer an electric model. It uses an electric heating element inside the tank, which heats the water. The thermostat in the shut off valve unit regulates the temperature. It turns off the heating element when the water reaches the desired temperature. Once the hot water gets used, cold water enters the tank and triggers the heating element to start heating the water again.
How Does a Gas Water Heater Work?
Gas water heaters heat water with a gas burner under the tank. The process begins with cold water entering the tank through a dip tube. Then the gas burner heats the water to the desired temperature.
Which is Cheaper: Gas vs Electric Water Heater?
Generally, installing a gas water heater is more expensive than an electric water heater installation. It is because they require a gas line, which can be a high cost.
However, it’s essential to consider other factors, such as the fuel cost and the amount of hot water needed, when deciding.
Is it Cheaper to Heat Water by Gas or Electricity?
Regarding the ongoing cost of heating water, gas water heaters are generally cheaper. It is because the cost of natural gas is often lower than that of electricity. Gas water heaters also heat water faster than electric water heaters, meaning less energy is required to heat the same amount of water.
Are Gas or Electric Water Heaters More Efficient?
In terms of energy efficiency, a gas water heater is generally more efficient than an electric water heater. Gas water heaters can heat water more quickly, leading to cheaper bills.
However, electric water heaters can be more efficient in certain circumstances, such as in areas where electricity rates are lower than gas rates or in homes where solar panels or other renewable sources get used to power the unit.
Professional installations of high-efficiency electric water heaters are eligible for tax credits thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. This benefit lowers the cost of upgrading appliances like your water heater by 30%.
Gas vs Electric Water Heaters Environmental Impact
Gas water heaters emit harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, which can contribute to air pollution and climate change. In contrast, electric water heaters produce no direct emissions and are much cleaner.
However, it’s important to note that the environmental impact of an electric water heater can vary depending on the source of the electricity used to power it.
Gas vs Electric Water Heater Cost
Initial Cost
Regarding the upfront costs, an electric water heater installation is generally less expensive. It is because electric models do not require a gas-line installation, which can be a significant expense.
Additionally, electric water heaters are typically less complex and easier to install, which can result in low electric water heater installation costs. However, it’s important to note that the initial cost can vary depending on the water heater’s brand, model, and energy star, so it’s essential to research and compare prices before deciding.
Monthly Operating Cost
Gas water heaters also require more power to maintain their temperature, increasing monthly bills.
On the other hand, electric water heaters require less power to maintain their temperature, resulting in lower monthly bills.
However, it’s important to note that the monthly operating cost can vary depending on household size, hot water usage frequency, and local power rates.
Which Lasts Longer: Gas or Electric Water Heaters
Electric models typically last 10 to 15 years, while a standard gas water heater lasts 15 to 20 years.
The frequency of maintenance and quality of the unit will affect its lifetime. Cheaply made units are often less durable than high-quality models, resulting in a shorter lifetime.
To keep your water heater in its best shape, make sure to contact experts like Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler to perform regular maintenance and repairs.
Maintenance On Gas and Electric Water Heaters
Gas water heaters require regular inspections to ensure the gas line and burner function properly and safely. These inspections can be costly and time-consuming, especially if repairs or replacements are needed.
In contrast, electric water heaters require minimal maintenance and can be installed in various locations without ventilation.
Gas vs Electric Water Heater Pros and Cons
Gas Water Heater Pros |
Gas Water Heater Cons |
Faster Heating TimeGas water heaters can heat water much faster than electric water heaters. It means you’ll have hot water available sooner, especially if you have a larger household or frequently use hot water Lower Monthly BillsWhile gas units may have a higher upfront cost, they are generally less expensive to operate monthly. |
Higher Upfront CostGas water heaters are generally more expensive to install upfront due to the cost of the gas-line installation. Safety ConcernsGas water heaters can pose safety risks if not installed or maintained correctly. Carbon monoxide leaks can be deadly, so it’s essential to have your gas water heater inspected regularly. |
Electric Pros |
Electric Cons |
Smooth OperationElectric water heaters are highly efficient. They can quickly heat a large amount of water and maintain the desired temperature for extended periods without consuming much power. Lower Installation CostsElectric water heater installation is generally cheaper than gas. |
Higher Monthly Operating Cost:Electric water heaters have a higher monthly operating cost than gas models because electricity rates are often higher than gas rates. Additionally, they take longer to heat water, which can result in higher power consumption. Shorter LifespanElectric water heaters typically last around 10 to 15 years. The heating element in the tank can wear out quickly, especially if the water in the area is hard, leading to frequent replacements. |
Gas and Electric Water Heaters: Choosing the Right One for Your Home
There are many factors to consider when choosing the type of water heater to buy. The type of power source, household size, and budget should be the main criteria since other smaller factors, such as environmental impact, will vary depending on the circumstances. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler today. We’ll be happy to help you install the best water heater system for your home.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler serves the East Texas cities of Kilgore, Longview, Tyler, and Whitehouse with a team of certified plumbers. In addition to emergency plumbing repair, some of the plumbing services provided by the company include faucet repair, drain services, toilet repair, plumbing fixture installations, tub and shower installations, kitchen sink repair, faucet installation, water heater repair/replacement, and garbage disposal replacement. Call us today at (903) 730-6611 to schedule an appointment!