The comfort provided by hot water in our daily lives is a luxury you don't think about until your water heater fails! If you're in the market for a new water heater, or are planning on building a new home and are deciding what kind of water heater to install; this blog may give you some insight into electric water heaters.
While several different types of water heaters are currently available on the market, electric water heaters remain a popular and affordable option for many homeowners. However, it can sometimes be challenging to choose between gas and electric water heaters, given that each comes with its unique pros and cons.
This blog will shed some light on electric water heaters' pros and cons, and what to expect in terms of energy efficiency, maintenance, and costs.
1. Energy Efficiency
According to the Department of Energy, electric water heaters are generally more energy-efficient than their gas counterparts since they suffer fewer heat losses. This factor makes them a popular option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills. Electric water heaters also have a relatively simple design and require zero venting that can cause heat to escape and compromise efficiency.
On the flip side, electric water heaters may not work correctly in households with high demand, as they have a slower recovery rate. They will also require a little more electric energy, which translates to higher utility bills.
2. Cost
One significant advantage of an electric water heater is that it usually costs less upfront than gas water heaters. However, its cost-effectiveness may depend on various factors like energy efficiency, home insulation, and hot water consumption rate. Electric water heaters' lower installation costs might justify their increased operating and maintenance costs.
In comparison, gas water heaters tend to have higher prices due to gas line installation costs and complex venting requirements. Still, they usually have lower operating costs, making them a better option for larger families in more spacious homes.
3. Maintenance
Electric water heaters require minimal maintenance in comparison to gas water heaters, which typically require professional maintenance at least once annually. However, homeowners must check their electric water heaters' heating elements regularly and keep them clean--If a home has a higher level of hard water, this can be a big problem for electric water heaters. While heating water, the heating elements have some sort of attractive effect to these minerals, causing them to accumulate on the heating element. Eventually, if the heating element can not distribute its heat because of buildup, then the elements get bad. See an example of this in the video.
While electric water heaters generally have a longer lifespan than gas water heaters, they require replacement dependent on the use. Homeowners may need to replace their electric water heaters somewhere between 10-20 years, on average.
4. Availability
Electric water heaters are a popular choice for homeowners who do not have access to natural gas. They are relatively easy to install and operate and can be used in a range of environments, including apartments, smaller homes, and mobile homes.
In contrast, gas water heaters require a gas line connection, which will increase installation costs in residences that do not have one. Such water heaters are also challenging to install in some property types, making electric water heaters the more available option.
Conclusion:
Electric water heaters have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision to get one is dependent on several factors. At the end of the day, understand your specific needs and the water heater's long-term impact on your utility bills, comfort, and convenience. By doing this, you'll be able to make a well-informed decision that will benefit you and your household for years to come. If you have water heater questions, or are looking for water heater repair or replacement, give us a call today!
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