Electric Vs Gas Water Heater Calculator

Cost Calculation Formulas:

\[ \text{Cost Electric} = \frac{\text{Volume} \times \text{Temp Rise} \times \text{Specific Heat}}{\text{Efficiency E}} \times \text{Rate E} \] \[ \text{Cost Gas} = \frac{\text{Volume} \times \text{Temp Rise} \times \text{Specific Heat}}{\text{Efficiency G}} \times \text{Rate G} \]

Volume:

gallons

Temperature Rise:

°F

Specific Heat:

BTU/lb·°F

Electric Efficiency:

(0-1)

Electric Rate:

$/kWh

Gas Efficiency:

(0-1)

Gas Rate:

$/therm

Electric Cost:

Gas Cost:

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1. What is the Electric Vs Gas Water Heater Calculator?

The Electric Vs Gas Water Heater Calculator compares the operating costs of electric and gas water heaters based on energy consumption and local utility rates. It helps homeowners make informed decisions about water heater selection.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formulas:

Where:

Volume — Water volume in gallons
Temp Rise — Temperature increase in °F
Specific Heat — Thermal capacity of water (typically 1.0 BTU/lb·°F)
Efficiency E — Electric heater efficiency (0-1)
Rate E — Electric rate in $/kWh
Efficiency G — Gas heater efficiency (0-1)
Rate G — Gas rate in $/therm

Explanation: The formulas calculate the energy required to heat water and convert it to cost based on equipment efficiency and utility rates.

3. Importance of Cost Comparison

Details: Comparing operating costs helps determine the most economical water heating option, considering both initial investment and long-term energy expenses.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter water volume, desired temperature rise, specific heat (typically 1.0), equipment efficiencies, and local utility rates. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which is typically cheaper to operate, electric or gas?
A: Gas water heaters are generally cheaper to operate due to lower fuel costs, though this depends on local utility rates.

Q2: What are typical efficiency values?
A: Electric heaters: 90-95%, Gas heaters: 60-70% for standard models, up to 95% for high-efficiency condensing models.

Q3: How do I find my utility rates?
A: Check your utility bills for electricity rate ($/kWh) and gas rate ($/therm or $/CCF).

Q4: Does this account for standby heat loss?
A: This calculator calculates heating costs only. Standby losses should be considered separately for complete cost analysis.

Q5: Are there other factors to consider?
A: Yes, consider installation costs, maintenance requirements, equipment lifespan, and environmental impact when choosing between electric and gas.