Gas vs. Electric Water Heater: Which is Better?

Many homeowners don’t think much about their water heater until it malfunctions and stops producing the hot water they need. Most water heaters last between 8 and 15 years, depending on the type, quality, and extent of their upkeep. Older water heaters typically need more repairs than they’re worth, so an upgrade might be worth considering.

Regardless of why you’re putting in a new water heater, choosing between gas and electric models is the next step. We will highlight their differences and when it’s better to choose one over the other.

Installation requirements

Gas heaters

Gas heaters aren’t exactly the easiest when it comes to installation. Since they are gas-powered, they leave fumes when burned. Therefore, these heaters need to connect to the outside air via a separate venting system. As a result, most gas heaters are heavier and bulkier than their electric counterparts with the same capacity. That can make them unsuitable for installation in some areas where electrical heaters could fit more easily. Also, some homes don’t have a natural gas connection, which can be costly to acquire.

Electrical heaters

Electrical heaters can come in two forms. Tank heaters are more common and recognizable. However, tankless water heaters are an excellent alternative since they take up far less space and provide ample hot water to a few faucets on demand. That makes electrical heaters more versatile to install.

A qualified plumber or water heating technician can assess your house and advise which heater type would be easier and less expensive to install.

Costs

On average, a gas water heater will be more expensive upfront than an electric model with the same tank capacity. The installation costs for gas heaters are also higher since you need to plug them into the gas main and the venting system. If the house doesn’t have a gas line, the total price can skyrocket.

However, natural gas is comparatively cheaper than electricity when used to power a water heater. The price difference will vary based on utility costs, but owners can expect up to a 40% price increase in monthly upkeep if switching from gas to electric models.

Hot water production

Gas heaters leak a portion of the heat through the venting system, making them less energy efficient overall. However, gas heaters will heat water faster and produce more water on demand during the first hour of operation (dubbed the “first hour rating” or “FHR”). Gas heaters also don’t require an active electricity line, allowing owners to access hot water during electrical outages, which are typically more common than the gas main shutoffs.

Environmental friendliness

The ecological impact of electrical water heaters depends entirely on how the electricity coming into the house is produced. On the other hand, a gas heater always uses natural gas, a non-renewable fossil fuel. Therefore, the former option is more effective and less polluting.

Which should you choose?

Overall, choosing between a gas or an electric water heater will depend on several factors. Owners need to consider how much hot water they need regularly and how easy each type is to install. Contact a professional plumber for an expert opinion and approximate pricing.

Trust MNS Plumbing, a licensed and friendly plumber in the Phoenix area, for all your gas water heaters, electric water heaters, and gas line installation and repair needs.