Gas Vs Electric Water Heaters

Your water heater energy source usually depends on your location, and whether certain fuel options are unavailable. Nevertheless, even if you have limited options, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of various fuels can make it easier for you to make a wise decision. The main question  in terms  of fuel is: gas vs. electric water heaters?

Both gas and electric hot water heaters have their respective advantages. But, like with any other appliances, both of them also have their disadvantages. Gas powered heating systems require several things that you need to meet; same goes with electric hot water heaters.

Gas Vs Electric Water Heaters - A Comparison

Electric water heaters are possibly the simplest types of water heaters. Compared to gas hot water heaters, electric-powered ones are easier to install. Electric heaters do not require venting and can be placed in several indoor areas. However, in electric-powered heating systems, the cost of heating is more expensive than gas.

On the other hand, gas water heaters are much more complicated to set up. You have to ensure that the heating system gets ample ventilation in order to guarantee safety and efficiency. Nevertheless, gas water heating systems are more efficient in heating water. In addition, gas water heaters come in several types, which include:

Natural Gas Water Heaters. Natural gas-fueled water heaters heat water in a short period of time. These models are vented either through a wall or chimney, and come in various sizes and capacity. Of course, to be able to operate natural gas-powered heaters, you need to have natural gas connection.

Liquid Propane Water Heaters. Liquid propane-powered water heaters are very much like natural gas heaters in terms of performance, installation and venting requirements. You will need a steady supply of propane, which comes in a storage tank that is refilled regularly.

Alternatively, you may also consider using a heat pump or a hybrid water heater to supply your household with hot water. A heat pump is one type of heating method, which converts thermal energy into heat, while a hybrid water heater is a gas or electric hot water heater that combines the qualities of both tankless and storage water heaters.

Gas Vs Electric Water Heaters - Which Is Better?

Here is a rundown of the positive and negative qualities of gas and electric hot water heaters:

Electric

·         has lower upfront cost

·         maintenance is easy

·         no venting and combustibles required

·         has pricier operation cost

·         heats water more quickly

Gas

·         has higher upfront cost

·         needs outdoor vent for safety

·         less expensive to operate

On average, a water heater (gas or electric) has more or less 13 years of life. This means maintaining a water heater can be an extended investment. If you think of it, you have to consider water wastage and fuel usage if you are to use a heating system for around 13 years.

Although both heater types can be different in terms of upfront and operation costs, they operate in pretty much similar way. Both types heat water using heat exchange and both use high energy in order to operate.

Water heaters differ in operation costs. In general, a gas heater operation may cost up to $800 per annum. On the other hand, an electric hot water heater costs up to $1200 per year to operate. Nevertheless, these are only rough estimates of operation costs and may vary depending on your location. 

So, which is better; gas vs. electric hot water heaters? The answer basically depends on your hot water requirement, location, as well as your expectations on how a water heater should work. Just keep in mind that when selecting the water heater type, you have to consider each one’s good and bad qualities to help you decide which one is best for you.