Choosing Your Hot Water System: Comparing Gas, Electric, and On-Demand

Choosing Your Hot Water System: Gas, Electric, and On-Demand

Hot water is something we use every day in our homes, whether it’s for showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry. So, it’s really important to have a reliable hot water. Today, we're going to explore the three main types of hot water tanks - gas, electric, and on-demand - to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your home.

A Look Into Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters use natural gas to heat water. Imagine having a small fire under a big pot of water. The fire heats the pot and the water inside it gets warm. That's kind of how a gas water heater works, but in a much safer and controlled way.

What’s cool about them?: Gas water heaters can heat water pretty fast, and they can still work even when there’s no electricity. This is great for times when there’s a power outage.

Things to think about: They need a gas source, must be a vented to the outside,which must be done by a Licensed Gas Fitter as well as a plumber to hook the tank up to your household water system

Diving Into Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters use electricity to heat up water. Think of a big electric kettle. You plug it in, and an element inside heats up and makes the water hot.

What’s cool about them?: They’re easier to install than gas heaters, don’t need a vent or chimney and can be installed by a plumber. They can fit in more places around the home.

Things to think about: They might take a bit longer to heat water compared to gas. Also, if there’s a power outage, they won’t work. The cost of running them depends on the price of electricity where you live and how much water you use.

Getting to Know On-Demand Water Heaters

On-demand water heaters, also known as tankless water heaters, are pretty nifty because they heat water only when you need it. Imagine turning on a magic tap that instantly gives you hot water without having to wait. they can be powered by either electricity or gas.

What’s cool about them?: They can save you money over time because you’re only heating water when you need it, not storing hot water that you might not use. They’re also quite small and don’t take up much space.

Things to think about: The upfront cost can be higher than traditional gas or electric hot water tanks. Also, they need to be sized  appropriately to ensure that if everyone in the house wants to take a shower at the same time, the heater can keep up. .If you choose a gas on demand system, you need the gas piping and gas venting done for a Licensed Gas Fitter and the water hook up done by a plumber

How Do You Pick the Right One?

Choosing the right hot water system depends on a few things:

- Your home: This includes how much space you have and whether you can vent a gas heater outside

- Your needs: Think about how much hot water you use. A big family might have different needs than someone living alone.

- Your budget: Not just the upfront cost, but also how much it might cost to run the heater over time.

- annual maintenance

It's a good idea to talk to a professional who can help you think through these things and pick the best option for your home.

Let's Make Warm Memories Together!

We know that choosing the right hot water system can be a big decision. But you don’t have to make it alone. Whether you’re thinking about gas, electric, or on-demand, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your cozy home. At Call the Plumbing Doctor, we believe in making homes comfortable and happy places to be. We have a licensed gas fitter on staff so we can assist you with whatever system you feel best suits you and your family.

Ready to dive into warm waters? Give us a call at 1-800-814-7014 or visit our website. Let’s make sure every bath, shower, and wash is a warm and wonderful experience for you and your family.

Choosing a hot water system doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right information and a bit of guidance, you can find the one that keeps your home running smoothly. Let’s get started together!