What’s right for you: a gas or electric tankless water heater?
Traditional vs. electric tankless water heater: Which is right for you?
When it comes to choosing the next water heater for your home, you’re probably trying to do a lot of research to determine which is the best option for you and your household needs. If you’re debating which one to pick, here’s a few tips to help make your decision a little easier:
The advantage of going with an electric tankless water heater
Traditional hot water heaters usually sit in basements and provide gallons of hot water at one time by holding the heated water in it’s tank. The downside to this is that there’s a lot of standby energy loss as the tank holds the water until it needs to be used. And once you’ve used up your water supply, you need to wait 20 minutes to an hour in order for your water heater to heat up more water.
An electric tankless water heater only produces hot water as you need it. When you turn on your faucet, water is heated up as it goes throw pipes heated by either a gas burner or electric coils. Because your water is heated as needed (on-demand), your electric tankless water heater reducing your energy loss and increases efficiency by up to 50% (compared to conventional hot water tank systems).
The downsides
While an electric tankless water heater can pump hot water out all day, it can’t produce a large amount all at once. This means you’ll likely experience temperature fluctuations more often, depending on the size of your tankless water heater and your household demands
Energy Savings
- A study done by the U.S. Department of Energy found that an electric tankless water heater is more efficient. It uses much less energy than traditional water heaters – saving you up to hundreds of dollars each year.
- If your hot water use is relatively low (less than 41 gal/day), an electric tankless water heater will be up to 35% more energy efficient
- If you use more water (86+ gal/day), a tankless water heater will be up to 15% more efficient
Looking for more information about an electric tankless water heater vs. a traditional water heater? Contact A-Abel plumbing for more information about which water heater is right for you.
FAQs
How do gas and electric tankless water heaters differ in how they operate?
Gas models use natural gas or propane burners to heat the water on demand, while electric models rely on high-powered heating elements. Both eliminate the need for a storage tank but use different fuel sources.
Which option typically provides faster hot water output?
Gas units usually deliver a higher flow rate, making them better suited for households with multiple showers or appliances running at the same time.
Are there installation differences between the two types?
Yes. Gas units often require venting and gas line hookups, while electric units generally have simpler installation but may need an electrical panel upgrade to handle the power load.
How do household size and water demand affect the choice?
For larger households with high simultaneous hot water use, gas may be more reliable. Smaller homes or apartments with lighter usage often find electric models more practical.
What maintenance is needed?
Gas models may require more frequent servicing due to combustion byproducts and venting systems. Electric models tend to have simpler upkeep but still benefit from regular descaling in areas with hard water.
What about upfront and ongoing costs?
Gas units often have higher upfront installation expenses but can deliver long-term reliability for heavy demand. Electric models usually have lower installation costs but may increase electricity usage depending on demand.
Do both types require professional installation?
In most cases, yes. Gas units almost always need a licensed professional for safe venting and gas line connections, while electric models may sometimes be installed by a qualified electrician depending on the home’s wiring capacity.
How does climate or location affect which type is better?
In colder regions where groundwater enters at lower temperatures, gas units often handle the higher heating demand more effectively. In warmer climates, electric units can often keep up without issue.
Are there space considerations when choosing between them?
Electric models are usually more compact and can be installed in tighter spaces, while gas models need extra clearance for venting and safety.
Can either type work off-grid or during power outages?
Gas units can sometimes function during outages if they use a battery-powered ignition, but most modern models still need electricity. Electric units will not work at all without power.
Which is better for eco-friendly households?
It depends on your energy source. Homes powered by renewable electricity may find electric units more sustainable, while gas may be preferable where renewable options aren’t widely available.
How do the lifespans compare?
Both can last 15–20 years with proper care. Gas units may need more regular servicing, while electric units may face wear on heating elements over time.
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