Electric Water Heater
Which is better, a gas or electric water heater? Plumbers are often asked this question, and the answer is not exactly black and white.
While it is true that gas can be cheaper than electric heaters, other factors may offset your energy savings. Your home’s hookups, water requirements, and budget could all affect your water heater installation.
Consider the following when comparing gas vs. electric water heaters:
- Installation cost
- Life expectancy
- Convenience and usage needs
- Environmental concerns
Your water heater should provide an efficient amount of hot water for your needs and be as energy-efficient as possible. Working with a professional plumber could help you decide which type of water heater may be right for you and your home or commercial space.
Gas Vs. Electric Water Heater, Which Is Right for You?
Your water demands and your home or business’s hookups play a vital role in choosing the right water heater for you.
There are benefits to both gas and electric water heaters. While gas water heaters may cost less to operate, they can be more expensive to install. Electric water heaters could potentially have a higher operating cost, but installation likely costs less.
Tankless water heaters, heat pump systems, and conventional storage tanks should all be taken into consideration, too. With so many factors in determining your water heater needs, it is suggested that you rely on the expertise of Robinson’s Plumbing Service before making an equipment decision.
1. Water Heater Installation Cost
If you have gas lines running to your home, installing a natural gas water heater may be the best option for you.
If you do not already have gas service, you could be looking at a hefty price tag to install new gas lines. Converting to a gas water heater requires gas-fitting service by a licensed gas fitter. Modifications to the home’s piping are required, and a proper venting system will need to be installed as well.
Many people find that the highest amount of savings comes from daily operating costs in gas vs. electric water heaters. Energy-efficient gas water heaters generally cost less to operate than electric heaters, but your water consumption needs may change your overall operating expenses.
An experienced plumber can help you best understand your estimated energy cost of installing a new electric model or gas water heater. Always consult with a professional before installation.
2. Water Heater Life Expectancy
Electric tank water heaters generally have longer life spans than gas heaters because they do not suffer the same corrosion as gas heaters. In gas heaters, cold water is heated through a flame on the bottom of the tank, which can cause serious deterioration to the tank itself.
On the other hand, your water composition can reduce the life expectancy of an electric heater. Private well water is much more likely to contain heavy iron concentrations and corrosive minerals that can accumulate in the reservoir tank.
Homes using municipal water usually have a softer water quality that can get the most out of electric water heater tanks.
3. Convenience & Usage Needs
Gas water heaters are much more efficient than electric heaters when it comes to replenishing depleted hot water. Gas heaters have an average recovery rate of about 50 gallons per hour and can heat a tank almost as soon as it is filled. If running out of hot water is a major concern, switching to a gas water heater is likely your best bet.
In general, electric heaters tend to have a lower hot water output than gas heaters. To compensate for the low output, larger tanks could be installed. These larger tanks recover at a rate of about 14 gallons per hour. Larger water tanks heat the water for longer periods but could cost more to operate in the long run.
4. Environmental Concerns
Gas water heaters are one of the cleanest burning fossil fuels, yet they still release carbon into the air.
With an electric unit, there are no emissions from the system and they are considered to be more environmentally friendly. Replacing water heaters and other appliances with Energy Star models can save money and lessen environmental impact.
An experienced plumber can help discuss your environmental concerns and what water heater may be right for you.
Professional Service For All Of Your Water Heater Needs
There are a wide array of water heater options on the market, and Robinson’s Plumbing Service can help you choose which is right for you.
Our team is comprised of skilled plumbing technicians and licensed gas-fitters. We can work with you to discuss your needs and what water heating system may be best for your home.
Robinson’s Plumbing Service can help you:
- Replace an existing electric water heater
- Replace an existing gas water heater
- Convert from gas to electric
- Convert from electric to gas
Whatever your hot water needs, you can rely on our trusted team of plumbing professionals. We have experience with residential and commercial water heaters, tankless and conventional water heaters, and hybrid water systems.
Call us at 804-794-0918 to schedule your water heater appointment today!
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