Electric Vs Gas Tankless Water Heater: Who Wins?
Choosing between electric vs gas tankless water heater can perplex homeowners. The decision boils down to one clear winner – the electric tankless water heater. Electric tankless water heaters offer a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solution for your hot water needs, making them the superior choice in most cases.
Today, we will decode the differences between electric and gas tankless water heaters, helping you make a smart choice that suits your needs. To understand the nuances and factors that come into play when deciding between these options, read on and empower yourself with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision. Electric vs gas tankless water heater: Let’s get stuck in!
Table of Content
What is a Tankless Water Heater, and How Does it Work?
A tankless water heater is a smart device that heats water on demand without needing a bulky storage tank. Unlike traditional water heaters, which always keep a large amount of water hot, tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient and save space. They come in two main types: electric and gas tankless water heaters, each with its way of heating water.
Now, let’s break down how a tankless water heater works simply. When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water starts flowing into the unit. For electric tankless water heaters, electric heating elements warm the water. One of the best sizes for this type is the 50 gallon electric water heater. In gas tankless water heaters, a gas burner heats the water. The hot water then travels out of the unit and into your faucet or shower, providing you with a continuous hot water supply if needed.
Electric Tankless Water Heater
An electric tankless water heater is a type of on-demand hot water system that uses electricity to heat water as you need without using a storage tank. It’s a compact and energy-efficient solution for providing hot water in your home.
Unlike traditional water heaters, which constantly keep a large tank of water hot, electric tankless water heaters only heat water when you turn on the tap. This makes them a cost-effective and space-saving choice for homeowners with a continuous hot water supply without the energy waste associated with tank-based systems. You can also read about the Bradford White electric heater to meet your water heating needs!
Gas Tankless Water Heater
A gas tankless water heater is a type of hot water system that heats water on demand using natural gas or propane without relying on a storage tank. It’s a space-saving and energy-efficient solution for delivering hot water in your home.
Unlike traditional water heaters that maintain a reservoir of hot water, gas tankless water heaters heat the water as needed, leading to cost savings and a continuous hot water supply for your household.
Differences Between Electric Vs Gas Tankless Water Heater
| Feature | Electric Tankless Water Heater | Gas Tankless Water Heater |
| Starting Price | Electric units typically start at around $200 to $700, making them more affordable upfront. Installation costs can range from $500 to $1,500. | Gas units have a higher starting price, ranging from $800 to $2,500, with installation costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 due to the need for proper venting and gas line installation. |
| Affordability | Electric tankless water heaters are more budget-friendly for initial purchase and installation, making them suitable for smaller households and tighter budgets. | Gas tankless water heaters may have a higher initial cost, but they can be more cost-effective in the long run for larger homes with high hot water needs, given the lower natural gas cost than electricity. |
| Maintenance | Electric units have lower maintenance costs due to the absence of combustion components. Annual maintenance costs can range from $50 to $100. | Gas units may require frequent maintenance due to gas burner and venting components. Annual maintenance costs can range from $100 to $200. |
| Fuel Source Options | Electric units rely solely on electricity, limiting their fuel source. This makes them ideal for areas where gas is unavailable or costly. | Gas units offer the flexibility of using either natural gas or propane, providing an advantage in regions with affordable natural gas and access to propane. |
| Water Consumption | Electric tankless water heaters are suitable for households with lower to moderate hot water demands, providing flow rates typically between 1 and 5 gallons per minute (GPM). | Gas tankless water heaters can handle higher hot water demand, offering flow rates ranging from 5 to 10 GPM, making them ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms or larger families. |
| Hot Water Needs | Electric units, like individual faucets or showers, are well-suited for point-of-use or single-application needs. | Gas units can meet multiple fixtures’ simultaneous hot water needs, making them suitable for larger homes with high hot water demand. |
| Warranty and Service Life | Electric tankless water heaters often come with 5 to 10-year warranties, and their service life can extend beyond 20 years with proper maintenance. | Gas tankless water heaters typically offer warranties of 10 to 15 years, and they have a service life that can also exceed 20 years with regular upkeep. |
So, Which one is Better: Electric Vs Gas Tankless Water Heater?
Now that we’re fully aware of these two, it’s time to really weigh in on this Electric Vs Gas Tankless Water Heater debate. The best way to do that is by understanding each one’s pros and cons and comparing them against each other to see who comes out on top.
Electric Tankless Water Heater Pros
- Electric units are generally more budget-friendly upfront, making them accessible to many homeowners.
- They have lower maintenance costs due to the absence of gas combustion components, resulting in cost savings over time.
- Electric models are typically smaller and more space-efficient, fitting into tight spaces more easily.
- They are easier to install due to minimal venting requirements and don’t need gas lines.
- Electric tankless water heaters can be highly energy-efficient, minimizing standby energy losses.
Electric Tankless Water Heater Cons
- Electric units may have lower flow rates, which could lead to inadequate hot water supply for larger households.
- They are often better suited for point-of-use applications or homes with moderate hot water needs.
Gas Tankless Water Heater Pros
- Gas units provide a higher flow rate, simultaneously ensuring a sufficient hot water supply for multiple fixtures.
- When properly maintained, gas tankless water heaters tend to have a longer service life.
- Ideal for larger homes with high hot water demands, such as multi-bathroom households.
- They can rapidly heat water, ensuring you don’t run out of hot water during peak usage.
Gas Tankless Water Heater Cons
- Gas units generally have a higher upfront price tag due to the system’s complexity and venting requirements.
- They require more frequent maintenance due to the gas burner and venting components.
- Installation can be more complex due to venting needs.
And the Winner of this Tankless Water Heater Electric Vs Gas Debate is…
When comparing electric and gas tankless water heaters, it’s essential to weigh the factors that align with your specific needs and priorities. Electric tankless water heaters have their strengths, primarily in affordability and low maintenance. On the other hand, gas tankless water heaters offer higher flow rates, making them ideal for larger homes with substantial hot water requirements.
In the end, the choice between electric and gas tankless water heaters boils down to your home’s size, hot water demands, budget, and the availability of natural gas. If you have a larger household with high hot water needs and access to gas, a gas tankless water heater may be the superior choice. An electric unit can provide cost-effective and efficient hot water solutions for smaller homes with lower demands.
Final Words
The choice between electric and gas tankless water heaters hinges on a nuanced evaluation of individual needs and circumstances. Electric units offer affordability and low maintenance, making them a solid choice for smaller households with modest hot water requirements. Gas tankless water heaters, while pricier upfront, excel in larger homes with higher hot water demands due to their higher flow rates.
Understanding these distinctions and factoring in your household needs will guide you toward a well-informed decision, ensuring efficient, cost-effective, and uninterrupted hot water supply tailored to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to have an electric or gas tankless water heater?
Choosing an electric or gas tankless water heater depends on your household’s hot water needs. Electric units are more affordable upfront and efficient for smaller homes. At the same time, gas tankless water heaters are ideal for larger households with high hot water demand due to their higher flow rates.
Is it worth switching to electric tankless water heater?
Switching to an electric tankless water heater can be worth it if your hot water needs align with the unit’s capabilities and you’re looking for energy efficiency. However, it’s essential to consider factors like your home’s size, electrical capacity, and local utility costs before switching.
Is it cheaper to heat water by gas or electric?
The cost-effectiveness of heating water by gas or electric depends on factors like fuel prices and appliance efficiency. In some regions, gas may be cheaper, while electric may offer cost savings in others. A thorough cost analysis tailored to your location is recommended to determine the more economical choice.
Is an electric tankless water heater more efficient?
Electric tankless water heaters can be highly efficient due to their ability to heat water on demand. They minimize standby energy losses associated with storage tank water heaters, making them a practical choice for homes with lower hot water needs.
What are the disadvantages of a gas water heater?
Disadvantages of a gas water heater include higher initial costs, more complex installation and maintenance requirements, potential venting and gas line expenses, and the need for regular maintenance to ensure safety and efficient operation.
