Electric vs. Gas Water Heaters

Electric Water Heaters

Exactly as the name suggests, an electric water heater uses electricity instead of gas to heat water. Electric water heaters are available in two options—storage tank-type electric water heaters and tankless water heaters. Tank-type water heaters use one or two heating elements to heat water and store water in a large tank, while tankless units heat water as it flows through the heat exchanger.

• Pros

When it comes to upfront costs, electric water heaters tend to be less expensive than gas water heaters. This is because they don’t require connections to gas lines, which are known to add to the cost of installation. Electric water heaters are also safer than their gas-powered counterparts due to the risk of gas leaks. This is why it’s advisable to hire a professional plumber when you’re in need of electric water heater installation or water heater repair. Skilled and experienced plumbers have the expertise and the right tools to get the installation job done right.

• Cons

Electric water heaters come with higher operating costs because electricity is more expensive than natural gas in most parts of the U.S. A gas water heater costs about $30 per month to operate on average, while an electric water heater costs approximately $42 per month to operate. Another downside of electric water heaters is that they stop working when there’s a power outage.

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat water. Just like their electric-powered counterparts, gas water heaters are available in two options—tank-type and tankless units.