Pros and Cons of Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters

When homeowners need a new water heater, the choice comes down to an electric water heater or a gas water heater. Buyers may initially see only the cost, but energy efficiency, recovery rate, and electronics and components are all factors to consider when comparing the options.

Gas Water Heaters

With gas, the initial cost is not as much of a mitigating factor. Because gas water heaters utilize powerful burners that heat water more quickly and the cost of gas is generally less than the cost of electricity, gas water heaters are the cheaper choice of the two in the short term. When it comes to energy efficiency, the cost of gas water heaters is somewhat hard to pin down. Some gas heaters meet the Energy Star standard, but others fall short. Gas water heaters can typically double the recovery rate of electric water heaters, which means that they can usually heat more water faster. Gas heaters typically have more advanced smart electronics that can notify users of operating status and repair needs. To operate, gas units require the following components: connection to a gas line, a gas control valve, a burner with a combustion chamber, a pilot light, a thermocouple, and a venting system.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters present a more expensive entry price, but they offer the flexibility of placement within the home. In terms of maintenance, electric water heaters are easier to maintain because they are less complicated than gas heaters. Conventional electric water heaters are not Energy Star approved, though there is a specialized model type using heat pumps that costs more. Electric water heaters have heating power ranging in wattage from 1,440 to 5,500. Electric heaters do not utilize the smart technology that gas heaters do. Perhaps the biggest difference between the two, electric water heaters require only heating elements and thermostats to heat the water.

At Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc, we understand the importance of a quality water heater in the grand scheme of your home or business. Wherever you land on the gas vs. electric debate, Larson's Heating & Cooling, Inc will offer reliable, friendly installation and service. Contact us online or call us at 845-344-3030 for your heating and cooling needs.