Gas water heaters come with several advantages and disadvantages. If your current water heater uses gas, your home is already set up for one. Otherwise, you’ll have to have a gas line installed, which adds to the cost. There are many more pros and cons to these water heaters. Let’s explore all of them before you make your final decision.
Advantages of a Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters are faster than electric water heaters when it comes to heating a tank of water. They can be as much as twice as fast. This reduces your chance of running out of hot water just when you need it the most. It also makes a gas water heater an excellent choice for large families.
A gas water heater can lose heat through the walls of the tank and from exhaust gasses. You would think this would make electric water heaters the better option, but consider how expensive electricity is. It’s certainly more expensive than natural gas. As a result, a gas water heater will be cheaper to operate. This balances out their heat loss when it comes to their overall expense.
Do you experience frequent power outages where you live? If so, you’ll be glad to know that with a gas water heater, you won’t run out of hot water during a blackout. Ones with a pilot light instead of an electric ignition continue to work even when the power goes out. This can be a huge advantage.
Disadvantages of a Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters are more expensive than electric versions. They may cost more when it comes to installation fees and maintenance too. Even so, they can still come out as the more affordable option overall due to the inexpensive operating costs.
Gas water heaters may have a shorter lifespan than electric ones too, but this is minimal. The average electric water heater will last approximately one year longer than gas models.
Switching to a gas water heater requires a complex installation. In addition to needing a gas line installed, your gas water heater will also need a proper ventilation system. This involves installing a PVC pipe that vents through your home’s roof.
Your Gas Water Heater Experts
If you still can’t decide whether you should invest in a gas water heater, we can help. Our team of experts can provide you with a more customized assessment of the installation and operating costs based on your home’s specific needs. Call EcoWorks for expert gas water heater service in Beaumont, TX.
