Water Heater Basics: Gas or Electric?

Photo by Paul Dyer Photography

Most households in the U.S. use natural gas to heat water. Other fuel types include electricity, propane, and heating oil. A typical gas storage water heater has an Energy Factor (efficiency rating) of about 0.6, while a typical electric storage water heater will be rated about 0.9. Based on these Energy Factors it would seem an electric water heater uses less energy.  Actually the opposite is true, here’s why: (more…)