Many Americans have been making the switch from traditional water heaters to tankless water heaters. This is because a tankless water heater heats the water directly. Homeowners don’t have to worry about water sitting in a storage tank.

What’s more, tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. However, there are two types of tankless models homeowners have to choose from prior to a tankless water heater installation. But which model is the better choice to install?

Consider the following differences between gas-fuelled and electric tankless water heaters to ensure your next installation is the best for your home.

Gas-fuelled tankless water heaters

There are two types of gas-fuelled tankless water heaters, one that uses propane gas and another that uses natural gas. Gas-fuelled tankless water heaters are typically more expensive than electric water heaters.

However, it’s worth noting that gas is less expensive than electricity. That being said, you may be paying more initially for a gas-fueled water heater, but the overall price of using gas rather than electricity may make the gas-fueled water heater a better investment.

Gas-fueled heaters can provide between eight to 10 gallons of hot water a minute compared to an electric heater’s five gallons. Yet, gas-fueled tankless water heater problems do exist.

Because the water heater is gas-fueled, it can emit carbon oxide. Therefore, to avoid tankless water heater problems you’ll need to ensure your gas-fueled heater has proper ventilation.

Electric tankless water heaters

Electric tankless water heaters rely on electricity and therefore may increase your utility bills over time. However, electric water heaters are cheaper to install than gas-fueled heaters and have a more modern design.

Electric water heater maintenance is also relatively easy without the worry of CO2 inhalation. Electric heaters don’t emit CO2, which makes them more environmentally friendly and also less dangerous.

Gas-fueled water heaters and electric water heaters each have their benefits and faults. While electric heaters initially cheaper and environmentally friendly, they can be pricey over time. And while gas-fueled water heaters are cheaper over time, proper ventilation is also critical.

Therefore, it’s ultimately up to the homeowner’s preference as to which water heater is the best for the home. For more information on types of water heaters, contact your local water heater contractors today.