Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular in homes today as they heat water on demand instead of storing it in a tank. This saves energy and space. There are two main types: gas and electric, and we'll compare both types to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Gas tankless water heaters typically provide higher flow rates and can handle larger hot water demands than electric models. This means they can supply hot water to multiple fixtures at once and tend to have lower operating costs in many areas.
Electric tankless water heaters are usually cheaper to buy and install because they don't need venting. Electric models are also very efficient, converting almost all of the electricity they use into heat.
Gas and electric tankless water heaters have unique pros and cons, and we'll look at how they work, installation considerations, and how to keep them running well.
Gas tankless water heaters often heat water faster than electric models as they can handle more hot water at once, which is great for bigger homes. Gas units work even when the power is out, giving you hot water during blackouts which is ideal if you live in an area where storms are common.
Electric tankless heaters are very efficient, turning almost all the energy they use into heat. They also don't lose heat through venting as gas models do, and electric heaters are usually smaller, fitting into tight spaces more easily.
Both types save energy compared to old tank heaters as they only heat water when you need it, cutting down on standby energy loss.
Installing a gas tankless heater requires proper venting to get rid of exhaust gases safely which might mean adding new vents or changing existing ones. Gas lines may also need to be upgraded to supply enough fuel.
Electric tankless heaters are often easier to put in as they don't need venting, so there's less work. However, they sometimes need a stronger electricity supply and some homes need to upgrade their electrical panel to handle the extra power.
Gas heaters usually cost more to install because the venting and gas line work add to the price, while electric heaters might have higher energy costs over time.
Gas tankless water heaters need more upkeep than electric ones and should be checked yearly by a professional technician. This helps keep them safe and working well. The burners and vents also need cleaning to prevent buildup which can impact efficiency and air quality.
Electric heaters are simpler to maintain as they have fewer parts that can break down. You should still flush them once a year to remove mineral buildup which is easy to do yourself. Cleaning the water inlet filter and checking for leaks helps both gas and electric models. In areas with hard water, using a water softener can reduce scale buildup in either type of heater.
Gas and electric tankless water heaters have different upfront and long-term costs. We'll break down the initial investment and ongoing expenses to help you make an informed choice.
Gas tankless water heaters usually cost more upfront with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 for a quality unit. Whereas, electric models are cheaper, often half the price of gas units.
Installation costs also differ because heaters need venting and gas line work, which can add $300 to $2,500 to the bill. Electric models are easier to install, with labor costs around $200 to $1,000.
Operating costs vary too. Gas is often cheaper to run, especially in areas with low natural gas prices, while electric units may cost more to operate, depending on local electricity rates.
Both gas and electric tankless heaters can save money over time compared to traditional tank models as they heat water on demand, cutting energy waste. Gas units tend to have higher flow rates, heating more water faster which can be a plus for big households. Electric models are very energy-efficient, often reaching 98% efficiency.
Your energy bills will depend on local utility prices and usage and in areas with cheap gas, a gas heater might lead to more savings. Where electricity is affordable, an electric unit could be more cost-effective. You should check your local energy rates and estimate your hot water needs to help you figure out which type will save you more in the long run.
Gas and electric tankless water heaters differ in how much hot water they can produce and their environmental impact.
Gas tankless water heaters can heat more water at once, making them better for high-demand situations. Gas units often provide 8-10 gallons per minute (GPM), while electric ones usually max out around 5-7 GPM. Electric heaters work well for smaller homes or places with lower hot water needs but can struggle to keep up when multiple hot water taps are on simultaneously.
Gas models heat water faster, so there's less wait time for hot water which can be preferable in cold climates where incoming water temperatures are lower.
Gas tankless water heaters burn fuel to heat water, creating emissions that impact air quality and contribute to climate change. Natural gas units produce less carbon dioxide than those that use propane.
Electric tankless heaters don't create emissions directly and their environmental impact depends on how the electricity is made. If it comes from clean sources like solar or wind, the carbon footprint of these systems is very low.
In areas where electricity comes from coal or natural gas power plants, electric heaters may indirectly cause more emissions than gas units. Fortunately, as the electric grid moves towards green energy, electric heaters become more eco-friendly.
Gas heaters tend to last longer, often 20 years or more with proper care, while electric models usually last 10-15 years. A longer lifespan means less waste and fewer resources used for replacements, reducing their carbon footprint.
Get in touch to discuss whether a gas or electric water heater is the right choice for your home.
