Electric and gas water heaters both have their pros and cons. Electricity and natural gas are accessible resources that work well in different scenarios. It is best to understand what each option offers before picking the type of water heater for your home. Speak to the experts from Lynn’s in Winnipeg to learn more about various models and options.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN Electric and Gas Water Heaters?
There are a few areas where these water heaters differ. The biggest difference is their energy source. The two types of models are defined below.An electric water heater is an appliance that uses electric heating elements to heat water for use throughout your home. A gas water heater employs convection heating, where the hot water rises. The cold water enters the tank and is heated by a gas-fired burner at the bottom of the tank. As the water warms up, it makes its way to the top of the tank to supply you with hot water. When selecting a water heater for your home, many factors come into play. You must consider upfront costs of installation, monthly utility bills, and your personal water usage. Gas water heaters may have higher installation costs, but they lower your monthly bills. Electric water heaters are cheaper to buy, but can cost more monthly. Call Lynn’s in Winnipeg to save money and keep your water hot today.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF Electric and Gas Water Heaters?
Both choices have some positive aspects. Although different households have their own needs, they can agree these water heaters have their own benefits. Let’s compare the Rheem 40-gallon electric hot water tank and the Rheem 40-gallon gas hot water tank as an example. Rheem is a popular water heater brand that we at Lynn’s in Winnipeg recommend. The water heaters from this brand are known for their consistency and efficiency.
RHEEM 40-GALLON ELECTRIC HOT WATER TANK
100% Efficient
The electricity used to heat the water stays within the tank because there is minimal heat loss.
Easy to Use
All new homes being sold are utilizing 40- or 60-gallon water tanks.
Simple Installation
These small electric hot water tanks are easy to install and service. Elements or thermostats are readily available.
Safety
There is no gas leak risk when choosing an electric water heater. You can know you are safe when you pick this option.
RHEEM 40-GALLON ELECTRIC HOT WATER TANK
Hot Water Quicker
The tank’s quick recovery allows it to heat up water quicker than any other hot water tank.
Easy to Service
Replacement parts are easily accessible if you need to change anything in the future.
Price Is Right
Gas utility costs are reasonable and save you money after installation is complete.
No Power No Problem
Natural gas water heaters are not connected to your electrical grid. You can still have access to hot water during a storm.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF Electric and Gas Water Heaters?
Like most things, electric and gas water heaters have their downsides. Here are some points to consider before making your choice.
RHEEM 40-GALLON ELECTRIC HOT WATER TANK
Difficult to Install in Older Homes
If the circuit panel is full in an older home you need to spend time, money, and parts to install a sub panel or juggle around circuit breakers.
Higher Monthly Bills
The smaller the tank the more efficient in the home. A family of four or less requires a 40-gallon electric and a family of four or more would increase the size to a 60-gallon electric water tank.
Slower Recovery Time
After the stored supply of hot water is used, it takes longer for the water to heat up again compared to a gas water tank.
Relies On Electricity
Although convenient, using electricity to heat your water means that when the power goes out, your hot water does too.
RHEEM 40-GALLON ELECTRIC HOT WATER TANK
Pricey Installation
These water tanks require a 4-inch chimney to be installed, and if your furnace is high efficiency then you would require a 4-inch chimney liner to be installed for around $1000.
Harder to Add to New Builds
New homes are not built with chimneys so no gas water tanks exist in the new build applications.
Pilot Light Going Out
Back draft and wind coming down from the chimney could blow out the pilot light, which stays on all the time, burning $5 of fuel a day.
Less Safe
There is a risk of your gas water heater leaking. If ignored, it can harm you and your family’s health.
