Ten Point Comparisson Between Gas And Electric Tankless Water Heaters
The issue of choosing a gas tankless water heater over an electric one, or vice versa, has been debated extensively over the last 5 years. Many claims have been made in pursuit of the ultimate sale and a lot of advice has been given by industry experts. This post thoroughly explores both perspectives by examining studies on the subject and speaking with industry experts. The results unanimously favor electric tankless water heaters. Here are the top 10 reasons why:
1.PURCHASE COSTS – The average market cost of a gas tankless water heater is over $1500. Electric Tankless water heaters are in the neighborhood of $300-$500. In addition, the installation costs of a gas tankless water heater can be quite pricey at $1000-$1500; whereas an electric tankless water heater can be installed for under $200.
2.OPERATIONAL COSTS – Today’s natural gas prices, based on US supply shortages, make the operation of a gas tankless water heater an expensive affair. Electricity on the other hand can be generated through other means, i.e. hydro, electric, etc. and is much cheaper and more abundant.
3.SIZING AND FLOW RATES – Gas tankless water heaters are designed to produce over 6 GPM of water which in most homes is more than the demand. Electric tankless water heaters can be sized for the exact household needs.
4.EFFICIENCY – Electric tankless water heaters are inherently more efficient since their heating elements are in direct contact with water.
5.INSTALLATION LIMITATIONS – Safety codes and regulations dictate that gas water heaters be placed outside the house. This makes piping more complex and consequently takes a toll on the efficiency. Longer piping translates into more heat losses in the water, en-route to its delivery point. In addition, venting, combustion issues of gas tankless water heaters need to be carefully addressed prior to installation.
6.SAFETY – Even though there is not much difference in this aspect, electric tankless water heaters are generally viewed as safer.
7.MAINTENANCE – Gas tankless water heaters experience fouling over time. Apart from the efficiency losses this can be a maintenance headache over time. Fouling shortens the life of every heat exchanger including tankless water heaters.
8.ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT – Even though this is not immediately understood or directly related, using an electric tankless water heater can be your contribution to the environment. Given the fact that electricity is generated from other resources than fossil fuels, using an electric tankless water heater will help towards reducing the gas demand. Shifting from traditional to more environmentally friendly alternatives becomes easier.
9.TECHNICAL SUPPORT – Over the past 3 years the electric tankless water heater industry has developed a great consumer support system, making it easier to seek and find answers to potential problems.
10.UPGRADING - The cost of upgrading your gas system to accommodate a gas tankless water heater will only benefit the usage of items by the specific gas water heater. However, upgrading your electrical system to accommodate an electric tankless water heater can benefit your entire house, including appliances, central systems, etc..
Bottom line: An electric tankless water heater costs less to buy and install, lasts longer and is more environmentally friendly. However, the decision is still yours.
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2 comments:
This blog sounds like it came from a manufacturer of electric tankless water heaters since it is far from objective. Just a few major points, installation is easy if there is sufficient electrically service in your house. Many homes will need additional power to support a large tankless heater...adding power to your home can get very expensive in a hurry.
And then there are operating costs, using national averages, it costs three (3) times as much to heat water with electricity than with natural gas. Hence, an individual purchasing an electric tankless water heater can expect to spend somewhere in the $400 to $500 per year in additional operating costs over a gas water heater.
The common rule of thumb is to heat your water with natural gas if it is available. This rule of thumb applies whether you are purchasing a tankless or a storage type water heater!
Dear Anonymous,
A closer look of our posts will show you that this blog is not about tankless water heaters but about solutions for healthier homes that also make energy sense. we are not trying to push products but simply stating facts
So here are the rfacts:
1) Not every house can have a gas supply
2) a gas tankless water heater after is all said and done will cost about $2000 which represents 3 years of operation for a tankless water heater. for more details and facts on electric tankless water heater costs, read this: ROI on Tankless Water Heaters .
3) The gas shortage problem in the US is well documanted: The Great Gas Shortage, also, Natural gas Shortage.
We check use nad verify all the products we endorse, however, it is not about the products but about making an effort to put some info out there that we feel is accurate and will help people make better choices for their home and families.
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