Gas Or Electric – Which Water Heater Is Right For You?

While we’ve discussed (ad nauseam), there is a significant difference between tanked and tankless water heaters. But did you know there is also a difference between gas and electric-powered water heaters? That’s right, your water heater’s heating method and fuel significantly impact its performance, usefulness, and efficiency. However, that begs the question: Which water heater is right for you? Our plumbing professionals have put together the following guide to help you decide between gas and electric water heaters. Read through it, and when you’re done, you’ll know more about which type of water heater is best for your home or business. So, without further ado, let’s look at the differences between gas and electric water heaters!

Gas Water Heaters – The Pros and Cons

As with any other appliance, gas-powered water heaters come with a list of pros and cons. Let’s break them down: Gas Water Heater Pros
  • Faster heating than electric models
  • Lower energy costs (potentially)
  • Sometimes work during blackouts
Gas Water Heater Cons
  • Higher up-front cost (installation and hardware)
  • Shorter lifespan
  • More complicated installation
  • Installation is impossible in homes not equipped with natural gas or propane.

Electric Water Heaters – The Pros and Cons

Like gas water heaters, electric water heaters come with a list of pros and cons. Those mentioned pros and cons are: Advantages of Electric Water Heaters
  • Lower up-front costs (installation and hardware)
  • Safe to operate
  • Installation is possible in almost any home
Disadvantages of Electric Water Heaters
  • Slower heating time than their gas-powered counterparts
  • Will fail during power outages (always)
  • High operating costs (compared to gas water heaters)

The Pros and Cons of Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters are somewhat unique. Unlike gas or electric heaters, they don’t generate any heat themselves. Instead, they heat water with the heat provided by your HVAC system’s heat pump. These water heaters work best in homes and businesses that use their heat pump regularly. If you live somewhere warm or have a heat pump, then a heat pump water heater isn’t for you. That said, heat pump water heaters have their pros and cons, including: Advantages of Heat Pump Water Heaters
  • High energy efficiency ratings
  • They’re safer to use than any other type of water heater
  • Heat pump water heaters are more environmentally friendly than different types of water heaters
The Cons of Heat Pump Water Heaters
  • High installation and operation cost
  • They don’t heat water as much as other varieties of heaters
  • They take up a large amount of space

What About Hybrid Water Heaters?

Okay, so you know the pros and cons of gas and electric water heaters. But what about hybrid water heaters? Hybrid water heaters take the best features of heat pump water heaters and combine them with the benefits of tankless water heaters. However, they’re inordinately expensive and not feasible in every home or business. If your home has a heat pump system, you can have a hybrid water heater installed. If not, then you’re out of luck.

Which Water Heater Is Right For You? Contact Us For Help Today!

Need help deciding which water heater is right for you? Has your current heater recently required repair or replacement work? You’ve come to the right place if you answered “yes” to either of those questions! Contact the Water Heaters Masters team of experts for fast and reliable assistance today!