Gas vs Electric Water Heaters: 6 Advantages & Disadvantages
- Accessibility When it comes to functionality, an electric water heater is typically easier to operate than the standard gas water heater. ...
- Efficiency If you are comparing the efficiency of an electric water heater vs a gas unit, electric heaters are more efficient. ...
- Cost The total cost of gas vs electric water heaters is nearly identical. ...
- Maintenance Requirements ...
- Installation ...
- Environmental Drawbacks ...
What is the most efficient gas water heater?
What are the Most Efficient Gas Water Heaters
- Rinnai RL Series HE+ Tankless Hot Water Heater. Rinnai RL94EN Tankless Hot Water Heater, 9.8 GPM, ...
- Eccotemp i12-NG Tankless Water Heater. Safe electronic ignition system; Plugs into standard 110v electrical outlet with UL-listed cord. ...
- Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater. ...
How much does a hot water tank cost?
The average cost of an electric tank-style water heater is between $350 and $1,000. For gas, costs range from $400 to $1,500. A tank model is the most traditional one, found in many homes around the world.
Which is better propane or electric water heater?
Propane water heaters is more energy efficient than electric water heaters. You can heat your water tank in less time using propane water heater rather than an electric water heater. The longer period it takes for an electric water heater to heat your water tank means higher energy bills. Also, using electricity to produce heat is the most ...
What is the best brand of hot water heaters?
Top 15 Water Heater Brands in 2021
- A. O. ...
- Kenmore. Kenmore is a large company that makes a lot of household devices, including vacuums, coffeemakers, and water heaters.
- Rheem. Rheem is another excellent water heater brand on my list that exists for decades, more specifically, since 1925.
- Bosch. ...
- American Standard. ...
- Eco Smart. ...
- Bradford White. ...
- Noritz. ...
- American Water Heaters. ...
- Navien. ...
Is it cheaper to heat water with gas or electric?
Gas water heaters cost less to operate than electric water heaters—about 33% less.
Do electric or gas water heaters last longer?
A well-maintained gas unit should last at least 10 years, and you may get a couple more years out of your electric system. Tankless water heater systems can last at least 20 years. So although there are higher upfront costs for the unit and installation, you could get considerably more use out of the system.
Should I replace my electric water heater with gas?
Gas hot water heaters are more energy-efficient than electric ones, costing less in the long run, so they must be the way to go!
What is the disadvantage of gas water?
Downsides of Gas Water Heaters While your energy bills will likely be lower with a gas water heater, gas models cost more upfront and they're more costly in terms of maintenance and installation.
Which hot water heaters last the longest?
Tankless water heaters use advanced technology that makes them last longer than tank water heaters. These heaters have an average lifespan of 20 years. However, some can last for up to 30 years when maintained properly.
What is the average lifespan of a gas hot water heater?
8-12 yearsWhile today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.
What is the most reliable brand of hot water heater?
Best & Most Reliable Water Heater Brands in the WorldA.O. Smith. ... Rheem. Rheem was founded in 1925 by two brothers, Donald and Richard Rheem – and with financial backing from a third brother, William. ... Kenmore. ... Bradford White. ... American Standard. ... American Water Heaters. ... Bosch. ... EcoSmart.More items...
How long does a gas powered water heater last?
— Not all water heaters have a life expectancy of up to ten years. The main exception is gas water heaters, which generally only last between six and eight years.
Water Heater Energy Usage
Most of us turn on the faucet and don’t pay much attention to how the hot water arrives — until, of course, it doesn’t. We take the mighty hot wate...
How to Choose A Hot Water Heater
First, some basics for selecting a water heater. A single-family tank water heater has a reservoir of hot water ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. When...
Energy Efficient Water Heaters
When doing a water heater energy usage comparison, Energy.gov recommends using the ubiquitous yellow Energy Guide label found on appliances to iden...
Gas vs. Electric Hot Water Heaters
For the most part, the choice boils down to understanding gas vs. electric water heater operating costs. Michael Bluejay, aka “Mr. Electricity,” ha...
Lower Your Energy Costs With A More Energy Efficient Water Heater
Now you should know how to choose a hot water heater if replacing your current model with a modern, more energy efficient water heater makes sense....
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 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.
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:
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).
Which is better, electric or gas tank heater?
Electric tank heaters operate more efficiently than gas heaters. Gas heaters lose some of the heat they produce through venting, making them less efficient.
What is the difference between a gas water heater and an electric water heater?
Another difference between gas and electric water heaters is that a gas water heater will have pipes connected to it, whereas an electric heater will have a supply cord. 2. Decide what size water heater you need.
How much does a water heater save on energy?
Heaters with fewer than 55 gallons should see about a 4% efficiency boost, thanks to the standards, the consumer organization says. Water heaters larger than 55 gallons, meanwhile, might cut a utility bill by 25%-50%, depending on the technology of the heater.
How many gallons of water does a single family water heater hold?
First, some basics for selecting a water heater. A single-family tank water heater has a reservoir of hot water ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. When someone turns on the hot-water faucet, the hot water is released from the top of the tank and piped to where it’s needed in the house.
Where is the FHR on a water heater?
The FHR rating is in the top left corner on water heater labels and is noted as “capacity (first hour rating).”. When doing a water heater energy usage comparison, Energy.gov recommends looking for models with FHRs that match within 1 or 2 gallons of your peak hour demand.
Is an electric water heater cheaper than a gas water heater?
He asserts many ways that electric models come out ahead when comparing electric vs. gas water heaters: Electric water heaters are less expensive to purchase. Although it ultimately depends on the size, quality and efficiency of your unit, electric water heaters generally have lower upfront costs than gas heaters.
Is a hot water heater electric or natural gas?
The fuel source that powers your home can help you decide which type of hot-water heater to get. Although some homes are fitted for natural gas, 1 in 4 U.S. homes is all electric. Additionally, those living in rural areas may have difficulty accessing natural gas.
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 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.
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 much can you save by lowering water temperature?
You can save approximately anywhere between 3 to 5 percent on your monthly water heating costs with every 10ºF reduction in your water temperature. Families with infants and toddlers should also adjust their thermostat to 120 degrees to avoid injuries from scorching hot water.
Is a gas water heater more efficient than an electric water heater?
The gas byproduct takes some of the heat with it, making it less efficient than electric water heaters. An electric heater, however, will use most of the energy it receives to warm water, making it more energy-efficient. With that being said, there are some high energy-efficient gas heaters that use less energy overall.
Which hot water system is the most energy efficient?
Energy Efficiency. Choosing an energy-efficient system will benefit the environment as well as your pocket. Gas is commonly considered the most energy-efficient hot water system and you can refer to the energy star rating. That being said, gas does need to be connected to your home, and gas stored in a secured gas chamber.
What are the different types of electric hot water systems?
There are also two types of Electric hot water systems, Storage tank, Instantaneous. Both work differently and deciding on what kind of electrical hot water system you want depends on your home and the amount of water you will be using.
What is the most common type of hot water system?
The most common types of hot water systems are electric, solar, heat pump and gas . Each having their own pros and cons, some being more affordable to purchase, where some are more affordable to operate. When you're deciding between a gas or electric hot water system, there are a few points you need to take into consideration.
Why do homes use gas?
Most houses are choosing to have gas as an energy source in their homes due to high energy efficiency but due to ventilation, a gas hot water system would usually be installed outdoors.
What happens if you don't have gas in your home?
If your home hasn’t been set up to support gas, or you’re in an area that doesn’t allow the use of gas appliances, you may be restricted to another form of power like solar or electric.
Why is it important to choose an energy efficient system?
Choosing an energy-efficient system will benefit the environment as well as your pocket.
Is hot water good for you?
A hot water system is essential for your day to day living, it's crucial you pick the best source that works for you and your home. Depending on where you live, what your availability to services and how much hot water you consume can greatly impact which type of system is best for you, electric or gas. The most common types of hot water systems ...
First, how do gas & electric water heaters work?
Let’s keep the explanation simple. The electric water heater has a pretty straightforward work mechanism. It uses electrical energy to heat the heating element inside the water tank. This element then comes in contact with water which then gets heated. The hot water then rises and reaches your required faucet and showerheads.
Fuel availability
When deciding whether you want a gas or electric water heater, it’s obvious that you will consider the availability of fuel in your home or area.
Initial investment
The overall cost of a water heating unit and its installation is one of the major deciding factors when it comes to choosing between gas and electric water heater.
Cost of operation
Typical energy guide label found the most water heaters. Source: SpringerPlumbing
Maintenance required?
The dirty muddy water coming out of the tank water heater during maintenance. Source: ER
Safety concerns
With an electric water heater, the mechanism is simple. It has electrical connections and water incoming and outgoing components. It’s a straightforward system that poses minimal safety issues.
Environmental impact
If you are a person who is conscious of leaving a carbon footprint and negatively impacting the environment then you will want to learn more about this aspect.
How much does a gas water heater cost?
In general, however, statistics show that a gas water heat will cost around $30 /month for the average home, while an electric heater will cost you closer to $42. An electric hot water heater ranges in costs from about $300 to $700 while a gas heater ranges from $400 to $800. Installation costs for an electric heater are $700 to $1,000 while ...
What fuel is used in a water heater?
There are two basic fuel types for a standard water heater, gas and electricity. Both have positive and negative attributes to consider. We outline the differences between them below so that you can make an informed decision on which one will be right for your home.
How big is a water heater?
First, most people are aware of the size in terms of gallons. The more water a tank holds, the larger it will be in general. Both electric and gas heat ers come in multiple sizes from 20 to 100 gallons. But electric heaters are also available as point of origin heaters. You install this very small water heater directly at a faucet to provide hot water on demand for things like tea.
What does higher FHR mean on a gas tank?
Both gas and electric tanks have a range of FHR values. A higher number means there will be more water available quickly. However, gas heaters tend to heat up faster than electric heaters, so you can often find higher FHR on a gas heater.
How much does it cost to run a water heater?
In general, however, statistics show that a gas water heat will cost around $30 /month for the average home, while an electric heater will cost you closer to $42.
Why do we need an electric heater?
As long as you do not have a power outage, you will always have access to hot water with an electric heater.
Do electric heaters use less energy?
An electric heater uses nearly all the energy it receives converting it into hot water, so you have less waste. High energy-efficiency gas heaters exist and use significantly less energy overall. These are the only type of tank heater that has an Energy Star label. Electric tank heaters are not available in a high energy-efficiency style.
Why do people prefer electric water heaters over gas water heaters?
Some people prefer purchasing electric vs gas on demand water heater because they are safer.
How does the temperature of water affect the output of a tankless water heater?
Incoming water temperature impacts the output GPM of gas vs electric water heater tankless—the colder the groundwater, the lower the water flow rate.
Why do people prefer tankless electric devices?
Many experts prefer tankless electric devices because of their straightforward designs, uncomplicated installation, less up-front price, and minimal maintenance.
How much does an electric machine cost?
Electric machines are cost-effective than gas units. You can acquire a premium quality system in $500 to $600.
Which is easier to deploy, gas or electric?
Electric appliances are easier and affordable to deploy than gas units. They are smaller in size than gas and propane-fueled heaters.
Is gas or electric good?
Both electric and gas appliances are excellent choices, and both have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Is it hard to operate a gas heater?
Gas models are hard to operate, and you will have to turn the gas on to start your heater. This makes them difficult to use and manage.
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, making it less efficient than elec…
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…