Propane Versus Electric Water Heaters

When it comes to choosing a water heater for your home, considering the benefits of a propane water heater over an electric water heater can be advantageous.

Here's a video that describes some of the important benefits of propane water heaters over electric models. (click the image to watch the video)

Let's explore more reasons why propane water heaters are a better choice.

1. Compact Size and Efficient Performance: A propane storage water heater provides the same amount of hot water as an electric tank, despite being much smaller in size. For instance, to deliver approximately 70 gallons of hot water within the first hour, a 40-gallon propane unit is sufficient, whereas an electric unit would require a larger 50-gallon tank. This compact design ensures that a propane water heater takes up less space in your home.

2. Reduced Standby Losses: Electric water heaters with larger tanks experience greater standby losses due to their increased surface area. In comparison, propane water heaters, especially high-efficiency models like Energy Star qualified units, are equipped with highly insulated and corrosion-resistant tanks. These features help minimize thermal losses to the surrounding area, ensuring efficient operation.

3. Energy Star Qualification: Propane storage water heaters are eligible for Energy Star qualification. With electronic ignition, automatic flue dampers, and advanced tank insulation, Energy Star qualified propane water heaters provide significant energy savings. 

4. More Accurate Comparison: Comparing water heaters with different energy sources requires using appropriate metrics. While the Energy Factor rating is useful for comparing units with the same energy source, it is not suitable for comparing propane and electric units. Instead, metrics like annual cost, hot water flow rate, and Energy Star qualification provide a more accurate comparison. In this regard, Energy Star qualified propane storage water heaters offer notable energy savings. These units can save between 13 and 20 percent in annual energy costs compared to standard electric and heating oil water heaters, respectively.

5. Environmental Benefits: Propane water heaters contribute to a greener environment. When compared to standard electric storage tank systems, an Energy Star propane storage water heater can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 1,700 pounds per year. The lower emissions and reduced environmental impact make propane water heaters a more eco-friendly choice.

6. Tankless Propane Water Heaters: In addition to storage water heaters, tankless propane water heaters provide several advantages. They are highly energy-efficient as they only produce hot water on demand, eliminating the need for storing large amounts of hot water. Unlike electric water heaters, tankless propane models are not subject to power outages, ensuring a continuous hot water supply. Additionally, they are more compact and occupy less space.

Considering all these benefits, it becomes clear that propane water heaters offer superior performance, energy efficiency, and environmental advantages over their electric counterparts. Whether you opt for a storage water heater or a tankless model, propane water heaters are a reliable and cost-effective choice for meeting your hot water needs.

Looking for a reliable, customer-focused propane supplier in central Ontario? Give us a call 1-888-405-7777 to discuss your propane needs, or get in touch for a no-obligation quote.

Sources of information: Propane Education & Research Council