An electric water heater serves the same purpose as a gas water heater. The difference lies solely in what heats the water.  

In an electric water heater cold water is brought in through an inlet pipe. The electric water elements inside the tank then heat the water and hot water rises in the tank. This hot water then flows throughout the home via heat-out pipe.

In a gas water heater cold water is brought in through a cold water supply tube which acts as a constant supply of cold water in the tank. The cold water is then heated by the gas burners. Hot water rises in the tank and is drawn off via hot water discharge pipe. 

Gas and electric water heaters function similarly. However, which one is better and more efficient to rely on for hot water? 

Pros of electric water heaters: 

Electric water heaters are the most reliable and widely used in homes for water heating. 

Efficiency:

 It’s important to consider which water heater is more efficient  from various perspectives. Gas water heaters have an Ef number ranging from 0.5-.0.7. Electric water heaters have an EF number higher than 0.9 and are more efficient as there is no energy loss during the venting process.

Initial cost:

Electric water heaters are less costly to manufacture and are more affordable when it comes to upfront price. The cost largely depends on this size, type and installation process of the water heater. Gas water heaters in contrast require a ventilation system and additional piping. Which makes the process of installing an electric water heater simpler, quicker and cost productive.

Safety:

Safety can never be compromised. Though both water heating systems are safe the chances of experiencing a gas leakage in gas water heaters is relatively higher than any electrical safety issue with electric water heaters. However through proper maintenance such mishaps can be avoided.

Repairing costs: 

Any water heater will eventually corrode and cause water leakage. In that case you might need to refer to water heater repair. Electric water heater repair is not only less expensive than gas water heater repair but also electric water heaters are more durable than gas water heaters.

Cons of electric water heater: 

The downside of using electric water heaters are as follows: 

Heating time: 

Gas water heaters heats the water more quickly and has a higher recovery rate than electric water heaters because the combustion process in gas tanks generates heat more rapidly. For households and workplaces which require hot water in larger quantities gas water heaters are more suitable than electric water heaters.

Power outages:

Electric water heaters depend greatly on electric power. Which also means a power outage will deprive you of hot water. Gas heaters are more reliable in this regard. 

However by powering your electric water heaters with solar panels you can gain access to warm water with power obtained from the sun rather than purchased electricity. Investing in solar panels in this case will prove to be cost effective not only in heating bills but also in your entire electricity bill.

Conclusion

Both electric and gas water heaters have their pros and cons. When opting for any you need to carefully consider which is more suitable for you, depending on your area, budget and efficiency.