What To Know
- An electric water heater is a tank-style water heater that uses electricity to heat water.
- A boiler is a water heater that uses gas or oil to heat water.
- The size of the water heater you need will depend on the number of people in your household and the amount of hot water you use.
When it comes to heating your water, you have two main options: an electric water heater or a boiler. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
What Is an Electric Water Heater?
An electric water heater is a tank-style water heater that uses electricity to heat water. The tank is typically made of steel or fiberglass and is insulated to help retain heat. Electric water heaters are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install, and they are easy to maintain. However, they can be less efficient than other types of water heaters, and they can take longer to heat water.
What Is a Boiler?
A boiler is a water heater that uses gas or oil to heat water. Boilers are typically more expensive to purchase and install than electric water heaters, but they are more efficient and can provide hot water more quickly. Boilers also have a longer lifespan than electric water heaters.
Electric Water Heater vs. Boiler: Which Is Right for You?
The best way to decide which type of water heater is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you are on a tight budget, an electric water heater may be a good option. If you are looking for a more efficient and powerful water heater, a boiler may be a better choice.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between electric water heaters and boilers:
| Feature | Electric Water Heater | Boiler |
| — | — | — |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Efficiency | Less efficient | More efficient |
| Speed | Slower to heat water | Faster to heat water |
| Lifespan | Shorter lifespan | Longer lifespan |
Types of Electric Water Heaters
There are two main types of electric water heaters: tank-type and tankless.
- Tank-type electric water heaters are the most common type of water heater. They store hot water in a tank, which is then released when you turn on the faucet. Tank-type water heaters are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install, but they can be less efficient than tankless water heaters.
- Tankless electric water heaters heat water on demand, so they do not have a storage tank. Tankless water heaters are more efficient than tank-type water heaters, but they can be more expensive to purchase and install.
Types of Boilers
There are two main types of boilers: gas boilers and oil boilers.
- Gas boilers use natural gas or propane to heat water. Gas boilers are relatively inexpensive to operate, and they are the most common type of boiler in the United States.
- Oil boilers use oil to heat water. Oil boilers are more expensive to operate than gas boilers, but they are more efficient.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
When choosing a water heater, you should consider the following factors:
- Size: The size of the water heater you need will depend on the number of people in your household and the amount of hot water you use.
- Efficiency: The efficiency of a water heater is measured by its Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more efficient the water heater.
- Cost: The cost of a water heater will vary depending on the type, size, and efficiency of the unit.
- Lifespan: The lifespan of a water heater will vary depending on the type and quality of the unit.
Key Points
The best way to decide which type of water heater is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you are on a tight budget, an electric water heater may be a good option. If you are looking for a more efficient and powerful water heater, a boiler may be a better choice.
What You Need to Know
- What is the most efficient type of water heater?
Tankless water heaters are the most efficient type of water heater. They heat water on demand, so they do not have to store hot water in a tank. This can save you money on your energy bills.
- How long do water heaters last?
The lifespan of a water heater will vary depending on the type and quality of the unit. Electric water heaters typically last for 8-12 years, while gas boilers last for 10-15 years.
- How much does it cost to install a water heater?
The cost to install a water heater will vary depending on the type of water heater and the complexity of the installation. Electric water heaters typically cost $500-$1,000 to install, while gas boilers cost $1,000-$2,000 to install.
