What To Know
- They use an electric heat pump to extract heat from the surrounding air, which is then used to heat the water in the tank.
- Hybrid electric water heaters have a gas burner that can be used as a backup heat source, which makes them more reliable than solar water heaters.
- 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 choosing a water heater for your home, you have two main options: hybrid electric or gas. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. In this blog post, we’ll compare hybrid electric water heaters vs. gas water heaters and help you decide which type is right for you.
Hybrid Electric Water Heaters
Hybrid electric water heaters combine the best features of electric and gas water heaters. They use an electric heat pump to extract heat from the surrounding air, which is then used to heat the water in the tank. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric water heaters. However, they also have a gas burner that can be used as a backup heat source, which makes them more reliable than solar water heaters.
Pros of Hybrid Electric Water Heaters
- Energy-efficient: Hybrid electric water heaters can save you up to 70% on your energy bills compared to traditional electric water heaters.
- Reliable: Hybrid electric water heaters have a gas burner that can be used as a backup heat source, which makes them more reliable than solar water heaters.
- Environmentally friendly: Hybrid electric water heaters do not produce any emissions, which makes them a more environmentally friendly option than gas water heaters.
Cons of Hybrid Electric Water Heaters
- More expensive: Hybrid electric water heaters are more expensive than traditional electric water heaters.
- Not as efficient as gas water heaters: Hybrid electric water heaters are not as efficient as gas water heaters, especially in colder climates.
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters are the most common type of water heater in the United States. They use a gas burner to heat the water in the tank. Gas water heaters are less expensive to purchase and operate than electric water heaters, and they are also more efficient, especially in colder climates.
Pros of Gas Water Heaters
- Less expensive: Gas water heaters are less expensive to purchase and operate than electric water heaters.
- More efficient: Gas water heaters are more efficient than electric water heaters, especially in colder climates.
- Faster recovery time: Gas water heaters have a faster recovery time than electric water heaters, which means you’ll never run out of hot water.
Cons of Gas Water Heaters
- Not as environmentally friendly: Gas water heaters produce emissions, which makes them a less environmentally friendly option than electric water heaters.
- Can be dangerous: Gas water heaters can be dangerous if they are not properly installed and maintained.
Which Type of Water Heater Is Right for You?
The best type of water heater for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option, a hybrid electric water heater is a good choice. If you’re looking for a less expensive and more efficient option, a gas water heater is a good choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
When choosing a water heater, there are a few factors to consider:
- 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.
- Fuel type: Water heaters can be powered by electricity, gas, or solar energy. The type of fuel you choose will depend on your budget and your environmental preferences.
- Cost: The cost of a water heater will vary depending on the size, efficiency, and fuel type.
How to Save Money on Your Water Heating Bills
There are a few things you can do to save money on your water heating bills:
- Take shorter showers: Shorter showers will use less hot water, which will save you money on your energy bills.
- Wash clothes in cold water: Washing clothes in cold water will save you money on both your water heating and electricity bills.
- Insulate your water heater: Insulating your water heater will help to keep the heat in, which will save you money on your energy bills.
- Install a low-flow showerhead: Low-flow showerheads use less water, which will save you money on your water heating and electricity bills.
What You Need to Learn
What is the lifespan of a hybrid electric water heater?
The lifespan of a hybrid electric water heater is typically 10-15 years.
What is the lifespan of a gas water heater?
The lifespan of a gas water heater is typically 8-12 years.
Which type of water heater is more expensive to operate?
Gas water heaters are typically less expensive to operate than electric water heaters.
Which type of water heater is more environmentally friendly?
Hybrid electric water heaters are more environmentally friendly than gas water heaters.
Which type of water heater is more reliable?
Hybrid electric water heaters are more reliable than gas water heaters.
Which type of water heater is better for colder climates?
Gas water heaters are more efficient in colder climates than electric water heaters.
How often should I service my water heater?
You should service your water heater once a year.
