We Compare Two Water Heater Energy Sources for Efficiency, Affordability, and Sustainability
When families in Morris County and Sussex County, New Jersey think about their energy spending, they don’t always consider the impact of their water heater. But the average home uses approximately one-fifth of its energy to generate hot water for bathing, laundry, dishwashing and other purposes!
You want to ensure that your water heater can get the job done. Otherwise, you’ll be looking at shorter showers and higher energy bills.
When we talk to homeowners about a water heater replacement, we’re often asked whether it makes more sense to go with a propane or electric unit. In our experience, propane water heaters have the edge when it comes to efficiency, affordability, and eco-friendliness.
Let’s do a comparison of propane vs. electric water heaters.
1. Hot Water Generation and Efficiency
Because of their superior recovery rates, propane water heaters can produce twice as much hot water in the same period as electric water heaters. Electric units have a recovery rate of about 20-22 gallons per hour, but for propane water heaters, it’s often higher than 40 gallons per hour. Want unlimited hot water on demand? A propane tankless water heater will do that!
Why is propane so much more efficient at producing hot water? Its flame is exceptionally hot, generating more than twice the Btu’s per cubic foot as natural gas.
2. Affordability
In general, gas-fired water heaters are slightly pricier than electric products. You can expect to spend a bit more money upfront, but because of propane’s superb efficiency, this price differential disappears quickly.
The Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) performed a study comparing propane and electric water heaters in 2,400-square-foot homes. They found that a house with a propane product will spend about $355 less per year on energy compared to an electric one. You could recoup the additional installation cost in as little as one year!
3. Environmental Concerns
Propane is a green fuel, emitting less carbon in combustion than most other fuels. It’s also methane-free and emits virtually no particulate matter. Propane was designated as a clean alternative fuel in the 1990 Clean Air Act and the 1992 National Energy Policy.
While electric water heaters may not emit greenhouse gases in your home, the electricity powering them does create emissions. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, almost one-half of New Jersey’s electricity is generated from natural gas.
Trust Advantage Oil for Your Water Heater Installation
If your water heater is over eight years old, it’s time to start considering a replacement. You don’t want to end up in a situation where your current unit fails, and you’re left without a hot shower while we secure equipment.
Advantage installs and services top-rated propane water heaters — both traditional and tankless. We’ll help you find the best product for your home, and then we will install it right away.
Are you ready to find an efficient, cost-effective propane water heater? Get in touch with us right away for a free consultation.