Electric vs Gas Boiler – Which One Is Better for an Energy Efficient Home?

You need a new boiler or plan to replace your old one? Do you wonder about models, energy efficiency, costs? Sure, these are some very important factors to consider as it all comes down to expenses and bills. Let’s look at the most important differences of electric vs gas boiler that will help you take a decision!

Electric vs Gas Boiler – The Importance of Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency and energy saving are one of the main trends in the development of the global “green” economy. You surely have noticed the steady growth in popularity of solar roof panels. The efficient use of energy resources is aimed to provide the same level of supply by using less energy. Of course, every household is also aiming to save energy, which means reducing energy consumption. Obviously, when we compare electric vs gas boiler, we have to take into account many factors like cost of gas and electricity, installation costs, efficiency and functionality of equipment, etc. In addition, one should know where the boiler will be installed – in the kitchen, basement, or in a special boiler room?

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Gas Boilers?

As you see, the cost of a new boiler will depend on many factors. Let’s look at the pros and cons of gas boilers. A gas boiler burns natural gas as fuel to generate heating and hot water. It requires supply, so your property should be connected to a supplying network. What are the advantages of gas boilers?

• Gas boilers are reliable, efficient, safe and compact;
• Lower cost – for homes that are connected to the gas grid, this option is the most affordable;
• Cheaper to run – gas is cheaper than electricity, which means you will have lower bills;
• Easy and simple installation;
• Convenient – this equipment is the easiest to operate;
• Automation opportunities – gas boilers can be controlled even remotely.

What are the disadvantages of gas vs electric boilers?

• Usually, a gas boiler is more expensive than an electric boiler.
• The installation requires exhaust ducts;
• Gas boilers are not environmentally friendly as they release of CO2.
• Risk of gas leaks is another serious disadvantage.
• Gas boilers require annual check and annual maintenance, which leads to additional costs.

Pros and Cons of Electric Boilers

We mentioned energy efficiency earlier and when choosing a new boiler for your home, this is one of the most important factors together with comfort, convenience and safety. An electric boiler offers an efficiency of about 99%, while a gas model reaches up to 73%. Here is a list of the advantages of electric boilers:

• Electric boilers are compact and silent;
• There is no need of gas supply which makes them the perfect choice for remote properties;
• Easy installation and low maintenance, there is no need of chimney or complicated piping.
• Environmentally friendly – there are no emissions;
• Safety – there is no risk of dangerous leaks. Unlike gas-burning boilers, there is no risk of explosion in the event of a leak. There are no combustion products and this is also an important environmental factor;

However, there are some disadvantages that should be mentioned.

• Electricity is more expensive than natural gas. It is one of the most expensive sources of energy for home heating and the result is higher bills;
• Electricity boilers are not energy efficient for large homes;
• Power cuts happen, which means that your boiler will not be functioning. A residential energy storage system is an option that will protect your home from power outage.