I personally prefer using smaller sized electrical tankless water heaters and placing them where they are needed. That means not having to wait for the hot water to travel from the other end of the house.
However, that problem could be solved by using a recirculating pump.
Also, smaller sized electric tankless water heaters may not require upgrading the electric service within the house.
Gas and electric tankless water heaters are famous for homeowners looking for energy-saving and financially savvy systems.
In this article, we will investigate the critical contrasts of gas vs electric tankless water heaters, zeroing in on efficiency and the job of temperature controllers.
Table of Contents
Gas Tankless Water Heaters
Gas tankless water heaters depend on flammable gas or propane to warm water on request.
One of their prominent benefits is the quicker warming rate contrasted with their electric partners. The warming system starts the second you turn on the tap, giving an immediate amount of hot water.
This efficiency is especially favourable for extended families with simultaneous high-temperature water needs.
Temperature controllers assume a critical part in gas tankless water heaters, permitting clients to set and keep the ideal water temperature at all times. This prevents having to heat water to a higher temperature than need be, which saves money.
High-level temperature controllers in gas units frequently incorporate elements like computerised indicators and programmable settings, improving client control and accommodation.
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to note that gas tankless water heaters might cost more to begin with because of installation necessities. Such as the requirement for code compliant ventilation.
However, their efficiency and long-haul energy savings can provide lower monthly fuel bills compared to tank style water heaters.
Top Gas Tankless Water Heaters Compared
| Model | Flow & Power | Best For | Key Features | Link |
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Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Tankless Water Heater Rinnai • Natural Gas / Propane • Indoor/Outdoor Top Pick The Rinnai RX199iN is a high‑capacity condensing gas tankless water heater designed for whole‑house use, delivering consistent hot water even in cold climates. With flexible indoor or outdoor installation and smart controls, it’s ideal for homeowners who want premium efficiency, long‑term reliability, and lower energy bills compared to traditional tank heaters. | Flow & Power
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| Key Features
| Amazon |
FOGATTI Instagas Comfort 180S Outdoor Tankless FOGATTI • Natural Gas • Outdoor Only Best Outdoor The FOGATTI Instagas Comfort 180S is a powerful outdoor‑only gas tankless water heater that keeps the mechanicals outside while still delivering strong whole‑house performance. It’s a great fit for homes where indoor space is tight or venting is complicated, but reliable, on‑demand hot water is non‑negotiable. | Flow & Power
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| Key Features
| Amazon |
APUS 140,000 BTU Indoor Tankless Water Heater APUS • Natural Gas • Indoor Best Value The APUS 140,000 BTU indoor gas tankless water heater delivers strong performance at a budget‑friendly price, with Wi‑Fi app control and “zero cold water” technology for more comfortable showers. It’s a smart choice for homeowners who want modern features and whole‑house coverage without paying premium‑brand prices. | Flow & Power
| Best For
| Key Features
| Amazon |
Rheem RTG‑84XLN‑3 Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Rheem • Natural Gas • Outdoor Trusted Brand The Rheem RTG‑84XLN‑3 is a high‑efficiency outdoor gas tankless water heater from one of the most trusted names in water heating. With strong flow, durable construction, and compatibility with many utility rebates, it’s a solid long‑term upgrade for homeowners who want dependable, low‑maintenance hot water. | Flow & Power
| Best For
| Key Features
| Amazon |
Novieex 4.3 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Novieex • Natural Gas • Indoor Budget Pick The Novieex 4.3 GPM gas tankless water heater is a compact, budget‑friendly option for smaller homes, apartments, or cabins. It offers on‑demand hot water with a simple LED display and straightforward controls, making it a practical upgrade from older tank units when space and cost are both tight. | Flow & Power
| Best For
| Key Features
| Amazon |
Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Electric tankless water heaters, then again, utilise electrical components to warm water as it moves through the unit. For the most part, they have a lower upfront expense and more straightforward installation contrasted with gas units.
However, their water heating ability may not be as fast as gas powered tankless heaters.
Electric tankless water heaters cannot provide as much hot water volume as gas tankless water heaters. Which may require more than one tankless heater to provide instant hot water for multiple simultaneous uses.
The solution is to have smaller units at each location of water use. This also reduces the need for upgraded electrical wiring that larger tankless heaters require. The net result can be a lower overall installation cost.
Temperature controllers are similarly significant in electric tankless water heaters, guaranteeing clients can set and keep the ideal water temperature. Temperature control accuracy increases energy efficiency, as clients can avoid pointless warming and forestall energy squandering.
Top Electric Tankless Water Heaters Compared
| Model | Specs | Best For | Features | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus Stiebel Eltron • 36 kW • Whole House Top Pick A premium whole‑house electric tankless heater with industry‑leading flow control, ultra‑quiet operation, and exceptional reliability. Ideal for high‑demand homes needing consistent hot water without temperature dips. |
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Rheem RTEX‑24 Rheem • 24 kW • Whole House Best Value A strong performer with excellent efficiency and digital temperature control. A great balance of price, reliability, and whole‑home capability. |
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Eemax HA036240 Eemax • 36 kW • Whole House Premium A commercial‑grade electric tankless heater offering powerful output and exceptional durability. Ideal for demanding households or light commercial use. |
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WINTEMP 36kW WINTEMP • 36 kW • Whole House High Output A powerful, budget‑friendly whole‑house heater with WiFi control and strong GPM. Great for users wanting high output without premium pricing. |
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WINTEMP 27kW WINTEMP • 27 kW • Whole House Mid‑Range Pick A strong mid‑range whole‑house heater with WiFi control and efficient self‑modulating operation. Excellent for medium‑size homes. |
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Energy Source and Efficiency
Gas and electric tankless water heaters differ in their energy sources. Gas models utilize natural gas or propane, while electric ones rely solely on electricity.
Despite this difference, both types offer greater efficiency than conventional water heaters, which constantly heat stored water, resulting in higher energy consumption.
Efficiency Ratings
Electric tankless water heaters typically boast a UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) rating of .96 or higher, indicating superior energy efficiency. On the other hand, gas tankless water heaters have a UEF rating ranging between .81 to .96, slightly lower than their electric counterparts.
Although both types deliver significant energy savings compared to traditional water heaters, electric models often exhibit slightly higher efficiency.
Additionally, electricity is regarded as a more environmentally friendly option due to its lower greenhouse gas emissions than the combustion process associated with gas heating.
Cost Comparison
The cost disparity between gas and electric tankless water heaters encompasses various factors, including initial purchase price, installation complexity, and ongoing operational expenses.
Initial Costs
Electric tankless water heaters generally cost less to purchase, typically ranging from $200 to $700 without installation.
In contrast, gas tankless water heaters tend to have higher initial purchase prices, ranging from $300 to $2,000 without installation.
The discrepancy in initial costs can be attributed partly to the manufacturing complexity of gas tankless water heaters, which require gas lines and proper ventilation.
However, it is essential to consider long-term operational costs, such as electricity and gas rates, which can influence overall savings.
Operational Expenses
Account for monthly operational expenses, including energy bills and maintenance costs. While electric heaters may entail lower maintenance expenses, electricity rates vary by location and may impact overall expenditures.
Gas heaters, conversely, may necessitate more frequent maintenance but could prove to be more cost-effective in regions with lower gas prices.
Hot Water Production
The ability to provide hot water on demand is a critical consideration when comparing gas and electric tankless water heaters. Which brings us to flow rates.
Flow Rates
Gas tankless water heaters typically offer higher flow rates, ranging from 3.5 to 11 gallons per minute (GPM). In comparison, electric tankless water heaters generally exhibit lower flow rates, typically between 1 to 7 GPM.
Gas heaters excel in delivering a continuous and ample supply of hot water, making them well-suited for households with high hot water demand. Conversely, electric models may struggle to meet the simultaneous demands of multiple significant appliances due to their lower flow rates.
Temperature Controller
Both gas and electric tankless water heaters are equipped with temperature controllers to regulate water temperature efficiently. These controllers ensure consistent and precise hot water delivery while optimizing energy usage.
Other Considerations When Choosing Gas vs Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Factors such as installation complexity, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact should also be considered.
Installation Complexity
Gas tankless water heaters require additional infrastructure for gas supply lines and venting, making installation more complex and potentially costlier. Whereas electric tankless heaters do not require venting.
Maintenance
Gas tankless water heaters generally need more maintenance than electric ones, which can result in additional costs over time.
Environmental Impact
While gas heaters may offer higher efficiency, consider the environmental impact of gas emissions. Electric heaters produce fewer emissions and might be a more environmentally friendly option.
Point Of Use Tankless Water Heaters
These 110-120 volt tankless heaters are only useable for one sink or one shower because of their low flow rates.
Flow rates for these heaters are often times too low to be used for showers except in very warm climates.
Read my article: 9 Best Performing 120-110 Volt Tankless Water Heater Reviews
Conclusions On Gas vs Electric Tankless Water Heaters
While choosing gas and electric tankless water heaters, it is critical to consider factors like efficiency, cost, high-temperature water production, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact.
Gas models ordinarily offer higher flow rates and efficiency, while electric ones frequently have lower upfront expenses and might be all the more environmentally agreeable.
At last, the decision relies upon individual inclinations, family temp water interest, financial plan contemplations, and long-haul sustainability goals. By cautiously gauging these variables, homeowners can go with an educated choice to guarantee a proficient and dependable heated water supply for their homes.