Most people tend to get confused when it comes to deciding whether to buy an electric or gas tankless water heater. Both the versions have different advantages and disadvantages.
Knowing about the pros and cons is important to make a wise purchase decision for the home. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each system.
Call Reimer for tankless water heater installation and service.
The pros and cons of gas tankless water heaters
The gas tankless water heater is run by either gas or propane. Some models also have both propane and gas option. The reputable brand gas heaters tend to cost about $1,000 to $2000 and more. The venting requirements add to this cost of gas heaters. In some cases, you might also have to install the right size gas line for the heater.
Gas water heaters have a greater flow rate as compared to electric heaters. They can heat up to 8 GPM and more in warmer climates. Another advantage of gas heaters is that they are 10 to 20 percent less costly to operate as compared to electric heaters.
The pros and cons of electric water heaters
Electric tankless water heaters tend to be much less costly as compared to gas tankless heaters. You can find a good model electric heater for about $500 to $800. There are no requirements of venting or another gas line as is the case with gas heaters.
Operating costs of electric water heaters is high. The electric heaters use traditional electricity that is more costly than gas.
Also, in colder climates or where there is a need for high flow rate, a 200 AMP electric service needs to be installed that adds to the cost of the heater. For warmer regions, about 100 to 150 AMP electrical service is required. This is an important consideration when buying an electric heater as not all homes have such electrical service available, and upgrading can substantial add to the cost of installing the heater.
The bottom line: which is the better 0ption for the home?
After reading the above pros and cons of gas and electric tankless heaters, you should be able to make up your mind as to which is the better option of the two for you. If you have a gas line installed in your house that can support gas water heater, the best option is a gas water heater.
Also, a gas water heater is the right choice if the existing infrastructure does not support the electric power heater requirements. In such a case, a gas water heater will be better as not only the installation cost will be less but you will save money due to lower energy bills.
In all other cases, electric tankless water heater is the right choice. There is no need to install additional gas line or venting for the heater. Also, if you area suffer from gas line disruptions such as during extreme frigid months, it’s better that you install gas electric heaters.
Have Reimer help you decide between an electric or gas tankless water heater
For more information on buying the right tankless heater in Buffalo and Western New York area, you can contact Reimer Home Services.
