Some homeowners may want to replace a hot water heater to save money on energy costs or to increase the amount of hot water they have access to in their home. Others may need to replace a hot water heater because their current water heater has completely stopped working and has reached the end of its useful life. Regardless of whether you need or want to replace your hot water heater, you may be wondering if a gas or an electric water heater is a better option for you. While many people prefer to use gas because gas is generally more affordable and is seen as being more environmentally friendly, there are situations when electric hot water heaters are a preferred option.
When You Want to Control Heating Costs
Gas may generally be more affordable than electricity, but there are steps that you can take to control heating costs with an electric hot water heater. For example, you can install a timer on the hot water heater just as you would install it on a light inside your home to turn on when you are on vacation. The timer can be set to turn the hot water heater off during the main part of the day when you are not at home or during the early morning hours when you are sleeping. You can program it to start heating the water again an hour or two before you will need access to hot water in your home.
When Space Is a Concern
In some homes, space is a concern. You may want to invest in a larger hot water heater that is more functional for your family’s needs, but you may not have room in your garage to invest in a larger water heater. Gas water heaters must generally be installed in an area that provides for several inches or more of clearance around the top and sides of the unit. This extra space ventilates the hot water heater and prevents the build-up of noxious fumes in the home. When you invest in an electric water heater, you will be able to install a larger tank without the concern about ventilation space.
When You Are Shopping on a Budget
While some people will invest in a gas water heater to keep their energy costs lower in the years to come, others are more concerned about their current expenses. You may not have planned to replace your hot water heater, and you may have very limited funds available to do so. An electric hot water heater is typically far more affordable than an equivalently sized gas water heater. You can compare the options for yourself to see how much money you can save on your purchase when you choose to invest in an electric hot water heater rather than a gas option. Furthermore, if you currently have an electric water heater, you should be aware that the cost to ventilate the area to accommodate a gas hot water heater can make the installation cost more expensive for a gas heater.
Conclusion
There are situations when a gas water heater makes sense, but there are also situations when an electric water heater is a better option. Consider each of these situations carefully to determine if you can relate to one or more of these. This can help you to make a better buying decision for your upcoming purchase.
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