How to compare Gas to Electric Tankless Heaters
• Total cost of operating the unit
Compare your local electric costc with the cost of natural gas
or propane in your local area? In most cases, gas is
less expensive than electricity- DO NOT OVER THIS…as this will be the major factor in the total operating cost of your tankless waterheater.
• Heating Capacity
How much hot water do you really need ? Most gas powered units produce enough hot water to run two or three flows at the same time and also offer the ability to chain several units together to make a higher capacity system. A typical electric unit has enough capacity to run one or two flows at the same time.
• Installation Cost and Complexity
Does your home present unique installation requirements ? Perhaps you are tight on space ? Should the unit go inside or outdoors? Gas tankless water heaters can be wall mount or floor mount installations, use more space, and could require exhaust vents to the outdoors, while electric units are usually small, wall-mounted, and do not have complex venting needs.
• Buying the most Energy Efficient model
Most gas fired units claim 85-90% efficiency, while electric powered units claim 99%+
efficiency. Both gas and electric tankless heaters bost fully modulating heater coils. This features allows the unit to use a minimum of energy when demand is low. Many gas units, and some electric ones have earned ENERGY STAR® status.