Whether you’re building a new home and need a water heater, or you’re replacing your home’s existing water heater, you may have recently run into a new conundrum that you never considered before: choosing between a standard electric water heater and a gas water heater.

Gas vs electric appliances and heat is a longstanding debate, as both sources of energy have their own pros and cons. And while you may be used to standard electrical water heaters, it’s worth considering their gas-powered variants for a few important reasons.

What Are the Advantages of Gas Water Heaters?

Hot water makes it possible to comfortably shower, clean dishes, and wash clothes. Many homeowners never give their hot water heaters a second thought until they’re in the shower and the water suddenly turns cool or even cold. But having access to steady, reliable hot water at all times of day isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for many families.

Gas-powered hot water heaters give homeowners peace of mind in a few different ways:

  • They work during power outages.
    If your home is connected to gas and your hot water heater is powered by it, you can continue using and generating hot water even if your power goes out. That makes these types of water heaters essential for people who live in areas that are prone to heavy snowfall or in areas with frequent blackouts.
  • They generate hot water at a faster rate.
    Standard electrical water heaters produce hot water at a rate of around 14 gallons per hour. Gas water heaters, on the other hand, produce hot water at a rate of around 50 gallons per hour. That means the entire tank can be refilled in a very short amount of time, making it ideal for large families.
  • They cost less to operate over the long run.
    Although gas water heaters aren’t as energy efficient as electrical water heaters, the source of power they use—natural gas—is cheaper than electricity. That means that over time, they are a more inexpensive option than electrical heaters. If a gas line is already available in a home, it’s a no-brainer to install a gas-powered water heater.