Gas vs Electric Water Heaters

In most households, 25% of the energy used every month goes into heating water for daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. Like many other home appliances, water heaters in Wake Forest have also improved greatly over the years, and especially in the last decade or so. More energy efficient models are available now, which can help you save a lot of money in your monthly energy bills. If you are considering to buying a new water heater for your new home or to replace your existing heater, it is worthwhile to compare gas and electric water heaters to determine which type is the best option for your home.

The basic difference between gas and electric water heaters is simple – gas water heaters use propane or natural gas as a fuel source, while electric water heaters run on electricity from the grid. However, the price difference between these two types of water heaters is often the determining factor when choosing one over the other.


An electric water heater will generally cost less than a gas water heater. The cost of installing gas water heaters is also more than the cost of installing an electric model. Gas water heaters also require you to install a PVC tube, while an electric water heater requires simply installing a special outlet. Hence, electric water heaters can be installed anywhere you want. The venting requirements make gas water heater installation very expensive. They also make it difficult to install the heater in certain locations.

Operating Cost

The cost of electricity is more stable than the cost of gas. Though natural gas is cheaper than electricity right now in most places, making gas water heaters less expensive to operate.


Electric water heaters require less frequent maintenance than gas water heaters, although neither of them usually need to be serviced more than once a year.


Electric water heaters typically last longer than natural gas water heaters. Gas heaters are subject to rust and corrosion, due to the constant presence of the gas flame underneath the tank.

For more information about water heaters or to have a new water heater installed in Wake Forest, give JD Service Now a call today!