When you buy something only once every ten years or so, how on earth are you supposed to remember everything you learned from the time before?
Take your home water heater, for example, and let’s say you’re now in the market for a replacement unit. Let’s further assume that last time around, you thought long and hard before you chose gas over electric. But now, you’ll be darned if you can remember your specific reasons for doing so.
So now, you’re wondering, “did I make a mistake in choosing a gas water heater, at least as far as my own personal priorities are concerned?”
Well, we’re about to offer you the most common reasons why people choose electric over gas, but first, it’s important to understand that you really can’t go wrong with either type of water heater, so long as you purchase a high quality product, and one that was professionally installed and maintained.
With all that said, here are a few reasons why you might choose electric for your next home water heater:
- Frees up valuable floor space. Gas water heaters must have 6” – 18” of clearance around them on all sides for effective and safe venting. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, don’t generate that kind of heat and can be placed pretty much anywhere, including inside a closet or crawl space.
- Greater personal safety. It should be noted that both gas and electric water heaters carry personal safety risks, so whichever type you ultimately decide on, please have it professionally serviced at least once a year. With that said, gas water heaters come with the risk of gas leaks that can result in CO poisoning or an explosion anywhere in your house. Electric water heaters, like any electrical appliance, can result in electric shock or electrocution from faulty wiring. The thing is, there is a greater chance of a gas leak than electric shock or electrocution, making electric water heaters the safer choice.
- Electric units last longer. With fewer working parts and significantly less heat generation, electric water heaters can last up to several years longer than comparable gas units from a major reduction in wear and tear.
If you’re still wrestling with your decision, well, just to be fair, let’s end by throwing a bone to the gas camp: you’ll pay less to operate a gas vs. an electric water heater, as gas simply costs less than electricity.
Looking for a little professional guidance? That’s what we’re here for: contact LBA today for answers to all your questions and unbiased advice on what might work best for your family, home, and budget.
