Not sure if this sounds reasonable, but I think the 8 year old gas water heater in the place I just moved into last month is using more gas than it should be. Gas meter recorded 50 therms used last month which seems like twice as much as a 50gal 38,000 BTU
British thermal unit
The British thermal unit (BTU or Btu) is a traditional unit of work equal to about 1055 joules. It is the amount of work needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit (Physical analogue: one four-inch wooden kitchen match consumed completely generates approximately 1 BTU). In science, the joule, the SI unit of energy, has largely replaced the BTU.
Are electric water heaters more energy efficient than gas heaters?
Electric water heaters (particularly electric heat pump water heaters) can have higher EF ratings than gas water heaters. A gas or electric water heater’s energy factor (EF) is a measurement that compares the amount of hot water the heater produces per day to the amount of fuel it consumes.
Do plumbers install gas or electric water heaters?
If the home does have gas, a plumber must make the gas connections. Electric water heaters offer a greater range of sizes than gas water heaters, especially when you consider micro-sized point-of-origin (instant demand) water heaters. Electric point-of-use water heaters range from two to 20 gallons.
What is a gas water heater?
A gas water heater is a tank that heats water from a gas-fired burner located at the bottom of the tank. Hot water starts at the bottom and rises upward, where it is drawn off the top by a discharge tube. Electric Water Heater Pros and Cons
Are gas water heaters safe to use?
Not only are modern models extremely efficient, but these appliances are also very safe. (The alternative is to use an electric water heater.) Even though the water heater uses natural gas as its primary fuel, some models do indeed use electricity to get the pilot light burning.
Why is my water heater using so much gas?
A broken or malfunctioning water heater can raise your gas or electricity bill considerably. Water heaters with too much sediment at the bottom of the tank require more energy to adequately heat the water. Often even with the increase in energy the water still doesn't get heated properly.
Do gas water heaters lose efficiency over time?
A tank-type water heater has a useful life of about 10 to 15 years, and the unit's efficiency is going to decline with time. This means that it is costing you more per month to heat the water in your home, often so much so that you'd be better off replacing your water heater to start getting some cost savings.
How efficient is an old water heater?
From the standpoint of using electricity to heat the water, all electric water heaters, even the old ones, have nearly 100-percent heating efficiency.
Will replacing an old water heater save money?
In fact, it often makes sense to replace an inefficient water heater even if it's in good shape. The energy savings alone could pay for the new water heater after just a few years, and you'll be happy knowing that you are dumping fewer pollutants into the air and less money down the drain.
Should I replace my 20 year old water heater?
A professional can sometimes repair these issues, but if your water heater is older, you'll need replacement. For example, a 20-year-old water heater is nearing the end of its service life and will need to be replaced even if repairs are possible.
Should I replace my 30 year old water heater?
Conventional tank water heaters can last for 8-12 years on average. However, when used and maintained appropriately, it can even last for 15+ years. The tank has an anode rod that attracts corrosive elements in water, protecting its interior lining from corrosion.
When should I replace my gas water heater?
Water Heater Lifespan If your tank water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. With proper maintenance, a tank water heater tank should last six to 12 years. A tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years. Check your water heater's warranty for the most accurate timelines.
Is it cheaper to heat water with gas or electric?
Depending on your local utility costs, gas water heaters are typically cheaper to operate than electric. They also cost more upfront than an electric. However, based on energy savings, gas heaters generally make up the difference in price in about one year.
How often should you replace your water heater?
between eight and ten yearsHow Long Do Water Heaters Last. — The majority of water heaters last between eight and ten years. While ten is the age at which heater replacement is generally recommended, the actual need to replace a heater could arise before or after this timeline.
Should I replace a 15 year old water heater?
Anyway, you should consider replacing your water heater if it's about 6-12+ years old and when you start running out of hot water faster. However, age and lack of hot water aren't everything. You could have a 15-year-old water heater that works just fine and wouldn't need replacing.
How can I save gas in my water heater?
How to Make Your Hot Water Heater More Energy EfficientTurn Down Your Thermostat. ... Invest in a Tankless Water Heater. ... Make Sure You're Using the Right-Sized Water Heater. ... Keep an Eye on Your Tank's Sediment. ... Insulate Your Water Tank and Pipes. ... Install in a Volt Timer. ... Use Less Hot Water.
How long should a 55 gallon hot water heater last?
Most tank water heaters have an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years, and tankless water heaters can last as long as 20 years.
How long does gas water heaters last?
about eight to 12 yearsBased on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about eight to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.
Do hot water heaters lose efficiency?
Water heater is losing efficiency. Another downside about old water heaters is that they lose efficiency over time. That's why a big sign for when to replace your water heater is a steady rise in water-heating costs year after year.
How do I know if my water heater is efficient?
To calculate a water heater's energy factor, you take the amount of energy the water heater puts to use and divide it by the total amount of energy that goes into powering the unit. The higher the energy factor of a water heater, the more efficient it is.
How do I know if my water heater is energy efficient?
A water heater's energy efficiency is determined by the energy factor (EF), which is based on the amount of hot water produced per unit of fuel consumed over a typical day. The higher the energy factor, the more efficient the water heater.
How long does a water heater last?
Most water heaters have an anticipated lifespan of between 8 and 12 years. However, some water heaters cross that line depending on maintenance. These other factors can also affect your water heater’s lifespan.
How Do You Get Rid Of An Old Water Heater?
Therefore getting rid of an old water heater can be a challenge. Some professional removal companies provide water heater removal services for a fee. Some of those removal companies even offer post-removal cleanup.
How Much Is An Old Water Heater Worth For Scrap?
Scrap yards usually price scrap by ranking it as light iron, light steel, shred, or mixed steel. Selling the entire water heater can get you about $0.04 or $0.05/lb. If your old water heater weighs about 150lbs, you’ll make about $7. Prices can go up to $30.
What materials are used in water heaters?
Water heaters typically have non-iron materials. Heater manufacturers extensively use copper and brass in water heaters. Remove the metals and sell those separately.
How does an outdoor wood stove work?
Outdoor wood stoves work almost like a fire pit. The only difference is the wood stuff has targeted heat direction.
Is it worth scrapping a water heater?
Scrapping a water heater will prove worth it even if you’re not getting much for it. After all, if you are going to dispose of it, you might as well make some money. You can make money from scrapping your old water heater if you take it apart and sell valuable bits of it .
Can you turn an old water heater into a solar water heater?
Just because it’s an old water heater doesn’t mean you can’t turn it into a solar water heater. It is even more effective in a household that has high utility costs because of heating. The solar water heater uses the sun’s power to preheat water before it gets to your home.
How Much Electricity Does a Hot Water Heater Use?
Typically, a hot water heater that uses a tank will run for three to five hours per day . So, a 4,000-watt heater used for three hours a day at $.10 per kWh will cost $1.20 per day, about $36.50 per month, or $438 per year.
How to calculate gas water heater cost?
The formula for estimating your bill is similar as well: Multiply the therms your heater uses per hour times the number of hours it's on times the price you pay for therms. For example, if you pay $1 per therm and use a heater that consumes .205 therms per hour, for three hours per day,
How long does a tankless water heater last?
Since they don't need to heat water when you aren't using them, tankless heaters may only run for two hours a day or so.
Why is my dishwasher using so much energy?
Don't forget about your other appliances: A large chunk of the energy consumed by your dishwasher and washing machine is due to hot water usage, so investing in efficient appliances and using low-energy settings will reduce the burden on the hot water heater.
How to reduce heat in shower?
Install low-flow faucets and shower heads: The less water that flows through your fixtures per minute, the less heat you need to use up.
Can you take a hot shower in the winter?
Don't linger too long in the shower: A hot shower can be a relaxing pleasure, and no one is suggesting that you suffer through cold showers in the wintertime. However, think about limiting your bathing time and not indulging in 20 or 30-minute long cleaning sessions.
Do tankless water heaters use less energy?
Generally speaking, these units will consume less energy than a traditional hot water heater, although how much electricity tankless water heaters use will still depend on the demand you create in your home.
Why are gas water heaters less efficient than electric water heaters?
Though gas water heaters burn hotter, they are less efficient than electric water heaters because much of the energy output is wasted through the vent at top. The vent is necessary for discharging toxic gases.
How much less does a gas water heater cost than an electric water heater?
Gas water heaters cost less to operate than electric water heaters—about 33% less.
How does an electric water heater work?
An electric water heater is a tank that heats water with high-voltage electric heating rods that run vertically through the tank. Water is heated starting at the center of the tank, radiating outward.
How many gallons of water does a water heater use?
Electric point-of-use water heaters range from two to 20 gallons. Conventional tank electric water heaters begin at 40 gallons and max out at 120 gallons. Most tanks are 30, 40 or 50 gallons.
What is the worst type of electricity?
Electric water heaters span the very best and the very worst types of electricity supplies. At the best, though still rare, is electricity supplied by solar or wind. At the worst is electricity supplied by dirty coal-fired or nuclear power plants.
How long does a gas water heater last?
Gas water heaters usually last from eight to 12 years before they need replacing.
Which is faster, a gas or electric water heater?
Gas water heaters have a faster initial heating rate and faster recovery times than electric water heaters.
How long does a water heater last?
The standard lifespan of a hot water heater typically ranges between 8 to 15 years. In this regard, it’s only natural that the time will come when you have to replace it. Once you begin to research new heaters, you will be required to choose whether or not you want to purchase a gas vs electric water heater.
How much does an electric water heater cost?
For electric water heaters, the cost is the opposite: an electric heater will have a lower upfront cost (with the average being $950 – $1,500) and a generally higher monthly cost.
How much does it cost to use cold water for laundry?
Using cold water during laundry cycles can save you an estimated $67 per year with a gas water heater and $161 per year with an electric heater. Considering that most modern detergents don’t require hot water to be effective, this is an easy way to save money on your monthly utility bill.
What is the phone number for a gas water heater?
If you’re still unsure if an electric vs gas water heater is best for your household, give our team of licensed plumbers a call by phone at (703) 543-9649. Your water heater is one of the most important systems in your home. If your water heater fails, our team is here to provide 24/7 water heater repair services.
How to keep water from adding up over time?
Those moments you leave the water on while washing your hair or brushing your teeth add up over time. Try turning off your water during these brief moments. This includes turning off the shower while shampooing or switching off the faucet while brushing your teeth.
Why do you need to flush your gas tank?
You will most likely have to get both systems flushed regularly in order to keep deposits from building up at the bottom of the tank. For gas heaters, the gas line and gas tanks will need to be checked periodically to prevent gas leaks or sediment buildup.
How to reduce utility bill?
Another way to decrease your monthly utility bill is to invest in low-flow shower fixtures. A low flow shower fixture decreases the amount of hot water you use and can save you anywhere between 25-60 percent water.
Which is more efficient, gas or electric water heater?
Certain types of gas and electric water heaters are inherently more efficient. Neither fuel type promises the best efficiency; rather, manufacturers have developed highly efficient subcategories of water heaters for each type of power source.
How much does it cost to replace an electric water heater?
An enthusiastic do-it-yourselfer with basic electrical knowledge can usually replace an electric water heater and save on installation costs (typically an extra $350 to $450, depending on where you live—different areas of the country will bring different costs).
How much does a Stiebel water heater cost?
Heat pump units, such as the Stiebel Eltron 58-Gallon Accelera 220 Water Heater (available from SupplyHouse), are pricier than non-heat-pump models (they can run $800 to $2,500 more than a standard electric model), but they are the most efficient water heaters on the market today.
What is a condensing water heater?
Condensing water heaters capture and recirculate what would otherwise be wasted energy in order to increase the units’ overall efficiency. Unlike standard (non-condensing) gas water heaters, which route hot water vapor through a flue and vent it out of the house, condensing units, such as the AO Smith 50-Gallon Power Vent Gas Water Heater , collect and recycle the water vapor. Of course, there are pros and cons to these units:
How long does a tankless water heater last?
For both gas and electric, tank water heaters last an average of 10 to 13 years, and tankless units last up to 20 years or longer . The average for electric heat pump water heaters is 12 to 15 years.
What is the energy factor of a water heater?
A gas or electric water heater’s energy factor (EF) is a measurement that compares the amount of hot water the heater produces per day to the amount of fuel it consumes. The higher the EF number, the more efficient the water heater. While the efficiency of gas and electric models tends to be fairly similar, especially when you’re looking ...
Is a tankless water heater more efficient than a tankless water heater?
Because they heat water as you use it, they can be up to 35 percent more energy efficient than a traditional tank-type water heater. Gas-powered tankless water heaters can be condensing or non-condensing, such as Rinnai’s 180,000 BTU Non-Condensing Water Heater (available from SupplyHouse).
How long does a water heater last?
Most water heaters last between ten and fifteen years. After that, their efficiency declines significantly and can lead to higher high energy bills. If you have a gas heater, the expectancy on those is six and eight years.
What happens if your water heater thermostat is too high?
If your water heater is set too high, you will be paying the price in your energy bill each month. According to the EPA, although some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140ºF, most households usually only require them to be set at 120ºF.
How many gallons of water for 2 people?
For 1 to 2 people: 30-40 gallons. For 2 to 3 people: 40-50 gallons. For 3 to 4 people: 50-60 gallons. For 5 or more people: 60-80 gallons. (source: Bob Villa) On the flip side, a water heater that is too small can lead to never having enough hot water, as well as a water heater that is overworked and requires more frequent repairs.
Why is my gas bill so high?
Have you been noticing that your gas or electric bill is high? The culprit may be your water heater. Check out some water heater mistakes you could be making your water heater less efficient.
Can a water heater be too small?
On the flip side, a water heater that is too small can lead to never having enough hot water, as well as a water heater that is overworked and requires more frequent repairs.
How many gals does a tank water heater hold?
A tank-style water heater expends energy around the clock to maintain the temperature of a 40 to 50-gallon water supply so that hot water is ready when it’s needed.
Why do you need a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters produce an endless supply of hot water, take up less space, have a lower risk of leaking, are safer, and have a significantly longer lifespan on average.
How long can you take a shower with a tankless water heater?
Since tankless water heaters work by heating water from the external source on-demand, you could take a shower for 10 hours (or longer), and the water would be as hot as it would be for a 10-minute shower.
How much hot water does a tankless water heater use?
If you use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day, a tankless heater is 24%-34% more efficient than a tank-style heater.
How much more efficient is a tankless water heater?
If you use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day, a tankless heater is 24%-34% more efficient than a tank-style heater.
Why do tank heaters break down?
Also, as I mentioned earlier, tank-style heaters break down over time due to hard water causing the inner lining of the tank to rust and corrode.
What are the risks of tank heaters?
One of the biggest risks with tank-style heaters is, over time, minerals from hard water build-up within the tank which leads to corrosion and eventually leaks.
What powers many appliances in our homes?
Electricity powers many appliances in our homes.
Is an electric water heater cheaper than a gas water heater?
Depending on the tank size and other options, an electric water heater will usually cost less than a gas water heater of comparable size. As with any decision, you shouldn't make your conclusion based upon this initial cost alone, since the cost of operating the water heater also needs to be considered. Advertisement.
Does a water heater use electricity?
Even though the water heater uses natural gas as its primary fuel, some models do indeed use electricity to get the pilot light burning. This piezoelectric starter makes a spark, which ignites the natural gas to start heating the water you'll use to take your nice warm shower.
Accessibility
Efficiency
- If you are comparing the efficiency of an electric water heater vs a gas unit, electric heaters are more efficient. Although gas hot water heaters are less expensive to run monthly due to the low cost of natural gas—a gas heater uses more energy to operate and releases waste into the environment. The gas byproduct takes some of the heat with it, ma...
Cost
- The total cost of gas vs electric water heaters is nearly identical. Gas water heaters average on a total of $1,300 – $2,600 in advance. This gives gas heaters a higher upfront cost. However, since the total cost of natural gas is low, you will pay an overall lower monthly utility bill. For electric water heaters, the cost is the opposite: an electric heater will have a lower upfront cost (with the …
Maintenance Requirements
- If you’re analyzing the maintenance requirements of gas vs electric water heaters, you will discover that gas heaters require more attention. You will most likely have to get both systems flushed regularly in order to keep deposits from building up at the bottom of the tank. For gas heaters, the gas line and gas tanks will need to be checked periodically to prevent gas leaks or s…
Installation
- The installation procedures for gas and electric water heatersis straightforward. On the other hand, it can be quite difficult to switch from an electric unit to a gas water heater. This process is more difficult because the gas lines will need to run to a new location. This requires creating another vent, which leads to cutting or drilling into the side of your home. This, in turn, increases …
Environmental Drawbacks
- Naturally, electric heaters are healthier for the environment. Since these systems are energy-efficient and can be powered through renewable energy sources, they wreak less havoc on the environment. Gas water heaters, however, use natural gas which is retrieved from the Earth in a wasteful and destructive process. This releases a substantial amount of greenhouse gases into …
How to Save Money on A Gas Or Electric Water Heating Bill
- Although you love the luxury of running your hot water whenever you want and for as long as you want, let’s admit it’s not very fun receiving a costly energy bill. Whether you choose a gas vs electric water heater, here are some additional things you can do around your hometo save on your monthly energy bill.
Water Heater Services Near You in Virginia
- If you’re still unsure if an electric vs gas water heater is best for your household, give our team of licensed plumbers a call by phone at (703) 543-9649. Your water heater is one of the most important systems in your home. If your water heater fails, our team is here to provide 24/7water heater repair services. We also provide other types of HVAC and plumbing services such as sum…