Gas vs. Electric Tankless Water Heaters – Which Is Best For You?
You’ve done your research and have decided on a tankless hot water heater for your home’s hot water source. Congratulations! The next question on your list should be electric vs. gas. And while each type of tankless water heater is great in terms of functionality, there are certainly pros and cons to both.
Let’s take a look and help you determine which variety will best suit your needs.
Gas tankless water heaters
Generally speaking, natural gas tankless water heaters will likely require a higher upfront investment in comparison to electric tankless water heaters. However, depending on the type of gas, utilizing a gas tankless water heater is typically less costly than using large amounts of electricity, which can help to even out the expense of the unit.
In addition, gas tankless water heaters typically produce up to 8-10 gallons of hot water per minute, making them the more efficient choice for large families or those with a larger demand for hot water.
While there are certainly benefits to gas tankless water heaters, they do have a few downfalls. For instance, gas-powered hot water heaters are not as beneficial for the environment as their electric counterparts. They also require a decent amount of ventilation and ductwork to discharge combustion gases outside.
Pros:
- Lower operating cost
- Greater hot water output (8-10 gallons per minute vs. 5 gallons per minute)
- Minimal maintenance required
Cons:
- Not as environmentally friendly (but more energy efficient than a tank hot water heater)
- Additional ventilation and ductwork required
Electric tankless water heaters
As you might imagine, where gas tankless water heaters are lacking, electric tankless water heaters pick up the slack (and vice versa). That being said, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still provides reliable hot water on demand for most output needs, electric tankless water heaters are a great choice. Electric tankless water heaters are even more energy-efficient than gas tankless heaters, and they also have a less in-depth installation process.
Pros:
- Lower initial investment
- Environmentally friendly
- Less intense installation required
Cons:
- Lower output (5 gallons per minute vs. 8-10 gallons)
- Potentially higher operating costs
Tankless water heater installation in Lynn, MA
As you can see, both electric and gas tankless water heaters are great options for homeowners looking to update their hot water heating systems. If you are considering investing in a tankless hot water heater, there are many considerations that come into play.
The good news is you don’t have to weigh the pros and cons yourself. At Waldman Plumbing and Heating, Inc., we can recommend the best tankless water heater solution for your household, water usage, and budget. To schedule a consultation, call us today at (781) 780-3184.