New home construction comes with a lot of decisions, especially once you get to the HVAC system. A common dilemma with HVAC is deciding between a traditional gas system and a more modern electric system. If you’re currently deciding between gas or electric for your new hot water tank, you may wonder which offers the best benefits, cost savings, and comfort.
Below, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both options to help you choose the right unit for your home. Keep reading to learn more about how to secure a quality hot water tank in Edmonton from the Weiss-Johnson team!
Gas Water Tank: Pros and Cons
Gas hot water tanks use natural gas or propane as a fuel source and heat the water with an ignited burner below the tank. This method is tried and true, and offers quick heating capabilities that deliver hot water much faster than electrical heaters.
Many single-family homes benefit from this type of setup, where multiple people need to use hot water around the same time and in larger quantities.
While gas heaters are a very convenient and reliable way to heat your home, they come with a much higher upfront cost.
In addition to the unit and installation costs, you also have to modify your home’s infrastructure to meet certain venting requirements, which are essential to preventing issues like gas leaks.
Electric Water Tank: Pros and Cons
If you’re thinking about installing a more eco-friendly HVAC system, many homeowners are turning to electric appliances, such as electric hot water tanks and tankless water heaters.
Gas tanks burn fossil fuels, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which can harm the local environment.
Electric units are also usually more energy efficient, as they use up less energy to operate, which can reduce your utility bills over time in areas with lower electricity rates.
Electric water tanks are also usually considered safer, as there is no risk of gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or other issues associated with gas-powered units.
That said, electric hot water tanks can be very limiting. They don’t work during power outages, which can be problematic if you’re stuck at home. They also take much longer to heat than gas appliances, which can be difficult for households that have high hot water demands.
While electricity is often cheaper in a lot of regions, Alberta actually has one of the highest electricity rates for utility bills. In Edmonton, this type of unit may not offer much long-term cost savings. Rather, the upfront installation is where you would likely see a lower price tag.
Is Gas or Electric More Worthwhile in Edmonton?
Whether you choose a gas or electric water tank largely comes down to your household’s need for hot water and where you want to see cost savings.
If you’re looking for upfront savings, a simpler set-up, and don’t plan to install a venting system, an electric water heater can be a great, eco-conscious choice.
While gas tanks may have higher installation costs, they are generally more affordable in the long term in Edmonton. Natural gas is also generally cheaper in Edmonton, and as time goes on, your tank will cost less to operate. If you have a multi-person household where more than one appliance is running at once, a gas tank is a great option for your family.
Get Quality Hot Water Tank Installation from Weiss-Johnson
Whether you’re looking for a classic gas tank or a more updated electrical unit, you can count on our team at Weiss-Johnson to hook you up with a quality installation! For nearly 50 years, we have been Edmonton’s go-to choice for residential and commercial HVAC services, and we’re excited to help you get your new home heating system up and running.
Contact us today to book an appointment!
