Pros and Cons of Gas and Electric Water Heaters
When it’s time for a new water heater installation or replacement, homeowners may wonder whether to install a gas or electric water heater. Choosing between an electric and a gas water heater can be overwhelming, especially with rising fuel costs and the desire for long-term savings. This post will share the pros and cons of both gas and electric water heaters, as well as discuss some factors that can influence the decision on which type to install.
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters offer several benefits, including faster water heating times and lower operating costs compared to their electric counterparts, making them an attractive option for homeowners who want hot water quickly and lower monthly water heating expenses.
However, these benefits come with some safety considerations. Gas water heaters require proper ventilation systems to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the home, and the combustion process creates potential risks, including gas leaks. Additionally, installation costs often run higher due to venting requirements and potential gas line extensions. These upfront expenses can offset some of the long-term operational savings, particularly in homes without existing gas infrastructure.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters also have several advantages over gas models, including being less expensive to install and having fewer safety concerns because they don’t pose gas-related safety risks. Electric water heaters also don’t require venting systems or hookups to anything other than water and power, which allows more flexibility on where they can be installed.
However, electric water heaters come with a few notable drawbacks. Operating expenses typically run higher than gas units because electricity costs more than natural gas in most regions. Additionally, power outages can leave households without hot water, whereas gas models can continue to function during electrical failures.
Factors to Consider Before Installation
A home's existing infrastructure can play a crucial role in determining whether to install a gas or electric water heater, as a gas water heater installation requires natural gas lines and venting, which some homes may lack. If a house has not had a gas water heater installed previously, the installation process will take longer and be more expensive due to the need to run a new gas line and install proper venting.
Another factor to consider is whether the household experiences power outages frequently, as this may push homeowners towards installing a gas water heater instead of one that runs on electricity. Power outages can leave electric units completely non-functional, while gas water heaters with pilot lights can continue operating during an outage.
Safety considerations may also impact a homeowner’s water heater selection. Gas units pose potential safety risks, including carbon monoxide exposure and gas leaks, while electric water heaters eliminate these combustion-related hazards. So, if homeowners are concerned about these risks, they may opt for an electric water heater installation instead.
About Water Heaters Only, Inc.
Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned and operated water heater company serving the Phoenix Metro Area for over 50 years. They provide same-day service, flat-rate pricing, and no additional charges. Call them for water heater installation and replacement services in Mesa, AZ.
