Water Heaters - The Benefits of Choosing Electric

Many homeowners don't realize the importance of water heaters in their homes. They just expect that when they turn on the faucet, the temperature is going to come out perfect. But choosing the right system is critical to making sure that everyone in the home is content when they step into the shower or wash their hands. Here are just a few reasons to consider electric instead of gas for your energy source.

Cost

Most people consider price as one of the determining factors for choosing between water heaters. Electric units cost considerably less than their gas counterparts. If price is all that a homeowner is looking for, they tend to go with electric. However, when it comes to the cost of running the unit, the gas version typically costs less to run on a daily basis.

Installing a Timer

Electric water heaters offer the option of installing a timer. Why keep the equipment running all the time if you aren't going to need it at all times of the day? Most timers can be installed without the help of a professional and can be one of the best ways to save money on the energy consumption of the electric equipment.

If you have a pretty consistent schedule and you know how often you need the warmer temperatures, this is a great investment. Look to spend anywhere from $50 to $100 or more, but consider how much electricity you can potentially save.

Cost of Installation

Installing gas water heaters requires extra equipment and you have to make sure that there is a vent for the unit. Electric water heaters just install into a special outlet. You don't need to create any walls or add PVC tubing just to make sure that you won't run into a safety hazard.

Surrounding Space Requirements

Gas versions need a lot of space around the unit to ensure that the safety requirements are met. Because it needs so much ventilation and open area surrounding it, installation is limited to certain areas. With the electric version, even the most confined spaces can be used. For a homeowner looking to save on space and still get the same results, the electric equipment is more appealing.

On the Downside

It is possible that electric equipment can short circuit. When this happens, there is some risk to the home and the homeowners. Regular maintenance can prevent this from happening. If you think something is wrong or you aren't getting the results you expect, it is important to call in a professional for a diagnosis. Leaving it working at less efficiency can cause problems that tend to be costly to fix.