Two Reasons To Choose An Electric Water Heater Instead Of A Gas Model

When it is time to have a plumber install a new water heater, some homeowners consider replacing their old gas model with an electric version. Although the cost of heating water with electricity is higher, there are certain advantages to electric models that many people prefer. These include having a more energy-efficient appliance and avoiding the generation of gas fumes inside the building.

Energy Efficiency

Electric water heaters are more energy-efficient than gas versions. This might seem counter-intuitive since the electric bill is higher after an electric model is installed. Although electricity costs more on average than natural gas or propane, additional energy is required to heat water with gas. This appeals to individuals looking for new strategies for being environmentally responsible. To boost the efficiency further, they can ask the plumber to place insulation around the appliance to prevent heat from escaping. 

Avoiding Fumes

Some men and women are concerned about fumes from gas in the home. They might still choose a gas-fueled furnace because baseboard heat is significantly more expensive. That's especially important for residents of a colder climate. Nevertheless, these homeowners would rather have an electric water heater, stove and clothes dryer because gas appliances operate with an open flame.

Electric appliances allow these individuals to avoid generating more fumes in the building. This may not be as much of a concern with appliances in a basement, but often, water heaters are installed in a first-floor utility room or laundry area.

Reducing the Utility Bill

The household residents can save money on the utility bill by shutting off power to the water heater when they'll be gone for a weekend or longer. The appliance uses less power to heat water from room temperature compared with maintaining a tank full of hot water for two or more days. This technique also may lengthen the heater's lifespan.

Turning the power off is easily accomplished simply by flipping the circuit breaker off. Since the heater requires a dedicated circuit, this does not affect any other electric devices in the home. A dedicated circuit only powers one specific area of wiring.

Of course, somebody in the household must accept responsibility for remembering to turn the power back on. Otherwise, the first person taking a shower will not be happy.

Anyone interested in changing from a gas water heater to an electric model should contact a plumber for pricing and additional information.