Electric Tankless vs Gas Tank Water Heater
**Gas tank** heaters offer high flow and work in cold climates with existing venting. **Electric tankless** saves space but may need panel upgrades and struggles with simultaneous showers.
Step by step
1. Count fixtures
Tankless sizing uses peak gallons-per-minute demand.
2. Check electrical service
Whole-home electric tankless can need 100+ amp subfeed.
3. Compare energy price
Local gas vs electric rates drive 10-year cost.
Electric tankless vs gas tank
Install cost often dominates first-year decision.
- Gas tank: Proven capacity; venting required; standby loss.
- Electric tankless: No tank; high peak load; efficiency gains if sized right.
Use our calculators
Common mistakes
- Undersizing tankless flow
- Ignoring gas line availability
FAQ
Is heat pump water heater better?
Often best efficiency in mild climates—compare separately.