Electric water heater versus propane

[sal7864]

Hi
The new home we're purchasing will have an electric water heater, just wondering how much more expensive that is to operate versus propane .I believe you can get a conversion kit also do you know if propane company that fills your tanks will also hook up your dryer? I know I have to get a conversion kit thanks very much for your time!

[truckinusa]

That depends. New homes have a water heater with an app where you can play around with the hot water. Those types of water heaters are expensive to replace. The heat pump water heaters are more efficient and normally cheaper than propane or gas. Its debatable what is cheaper between propane and gas, but gas is normally significantly cheaper. Propane vs electric? I would think that electric would be cheaper overall. The bigger savings is if you heat with gas and do a lot of heating. A heat pump furnace can be cheaper than gas in a milder climate. Not efficient below 30 degrees. In a colder climate you can still do heat pump furnaces and have the gas as backup. That's not too bad.

[asnopy]

Yes, propane companies can often hook up your dryer if you have the right conversion kit.

[escapemurmer]

Electric water heaters are generally more expensive to operate than propane ones, primarily because electricity costs more per unit of energy compared to propane. However, this can vary depending on your local energy prices and usage patterns. Converting an electric water heater to propane is possible with a conversion kit, but it can be complex, and professional installation is recommended.

[sal7864]

Thanks all going to stick with keeping it electric so far the bills haven't been bad at all

[William Aurther]

When choosing between an electric water heater and a propane water heater, consider the following factors: cost, energy efficiency, environmental impact, and other practical aspects. Here's a breakdown to help you compare:

1. Energy Efficiency
Electric Water Heater: Electric heaters are generally more efficient at converting energy into heat (nearly 100%). However, the overall efficiency depends on how electricity is produced in your area. If electricity comes from renewable sources, it can be a more environmentally friendly choice.
Propane Water Heater: Propane heats water more quickly, which may result in less energy being used in the long run. However, some energy is lost during combustion, making it slightly less efficient compared to electric heaters.
2. Cost
Upfront Cost: Electric water heaters tend to have lower upfront costs. Installation is typically easier because it doesn't require gas lines.
Operating Cost: Propane is often cheaper than electricity, so propane water heaters can have lower operating costs, especially in regions where electricity rates are high. However, this varies greatly depending on local fuel prices.
Maintenance: Propane systems may require more maintenance due to gas lines and venting, whereas electric heaters are simpler and often require less upkeep.
3. Environmental Impact
Electric Water Heater: If your electricity comes from clean energy sources like solar, wind, or hydro, an electric water heater can have a much lower environmental impact. However, if it's powered by coal or natural gas, the environmental cost can be higher.
Propane Water Heater: Propane burns cleaner than other fossil fuels like oil or coal, but it still emits greenhouse gases. It may be a better option if your electricity is generated from non-renewable sources

When choosing between an electric water heater and a propane water heater, consider the following factors: cost, energy efficiency, environmental impact, and other practical aspects. Here's a breakdown to help you compare:

1. Energy Efficiency
Electric Water Heater:[ Electric heaters][https://homefacet.com/best-electric-hea ... rvice-458/] are generally more efficient at converting energy into heat (nearly 100%). However, the overall efficiency depends on how electricity is produced in your area. If electricity comes from renewable sources, it can be a more environmentally friendly choice.
Propane Water Heater: Propane heats water more quickly, which may result in less energy being used in the long run. However, some energy is lost during combustion, making it slightly less efficient compared to electric heaters.
2. Cost
Upfront Cost: Electric water heaters tend to have lower upfront costs. Installation is typically easier because it doesn't require gas lines.
Operating Cost: Propane is often cheaper than electricity, so propane water heaters can have lower operating costs, especially in regions where electricity rates are high. However, this varies greatly depending on local fuel prices.
Maintenance: Propane systems may require more maintenance due to gas lines and venting, whereas electric heaters are simpler and often require less upkeep.
3. Environmental Impact
Electric Water Heater: If your electricity comes from clean energy sources like solar, wind, or hydro, an electric water heater can have a much lower environmental impact. However, if it's powered by coal or natural gas, the environmental cost can be higher.
Propane Water Heater: Propane burns cleaner than other fossil fuels like oil or coal, but it still emits greenhouse gases. It may be a better option if your electricity is generated from non-renewable sources

[crosssara]

Thanks all going to stick with keeping it electric so far the bills haven't been bad at all

Keep us updated, though..

[Andreaa23]

Choosing between an electric water heater and a propane water heater depends on several factors, including energy efficiency, operating costs, environmental impact, installation requirements, and your personal preferences.

[nancymartinted]

I'm trying to decide between sticking with an electric water heater or switching to propane. From your experience, which one has lower operating costs and is more efficient in the long run? Also, if anyone has used a conversion kit for switching to propane, how was the process, and would you recommend it? Any advice on maintenance and environmental impact would also be helpful. Thanks!

[slopegame]

Electric water heaters generally come with lower initial costs, are easier to install, and can be used immediately by connecting to the home's electrical system. However, electricity prices can sometimes be high, which may increase operational costs.

On the other hand, propane water heaters are a great option, especially in areas where there is no electricity access. Additionally, using propane heats water more quickly and can often be more economical than electricity, although fluctuating gas prices should be considered. Propane systems may have higher installation costs and require a regular gas supply.

In conclusion, you can choose the one that best fits your home and usage needs. Electric water heaters offer convenience and efficiency, while propane models can be more independent and economical.