If you’re looking to replace or install a new water heater, there are many energy efficient models in the market today. Too many, you might say. There are water heaters with tanks, water heaters without tanks, hybrid water heaters, water heaters that use gas, propane, solar energy, and of course, electricity.
If you narrow down your choices between two types of water heaters, electric models and gas models, what makes one better than the other?
How Electric Water Heaters Work
First of all, electric water heaters use heating elements to produce heat. These elements consist of a set of large, elongated coils contained inside the tanks, which are just like the ones you can see in an electric stove or oven. These coils, which are submerged in water, heat up to supply hot water to the home.
Disadvantages and Advantages
In general, gas water heaters are more efficient than water heaters that are electric. They typically heat faster compared to their electric counterparts and use up less energy in the process. Also, the cost of electricity is higher than the price of propane or natural gas.
On the other hand, electric water heaters require lower upfront costs. In other words, they are cheaper to buy even compared to the same size of gas heaters. Therefore, you should definitely consider buying an electric water heater instead of a gas model if your household has minimal need for hot water.
Another major advantage of electric water heaters over gas-fueled ones is in the aspect of installation. Water heaters that are electric are simply easier to install than gas-fueled types because of the fact that they do not need to be vented. This means it doesn’t matter if you don’t have roof vents or a chimney. Since electric water heaters don’t burn fuel and produce gas emissions, you can install them in an enclosed space, even a closet.
Unlike gas heaters, which would require you to install PVC pipes and vents in your roof, all you need to install with an electric water heater is a special outlet. The only thing you have to be careful about using them is exposing them to water (obviously, anything electric is dangerous when exposed to water.)
Installing a Water Heater in Your Home?
If you just purchased a water heater and need help with installation or maintenance, Seva Call can find the best people to do the job for you. Find local plumbers quickly. Contact us now!
