Gas vs Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Choosing between gas and electric tankless water heaters depends on your home's infrastructure, hot water needs, and operating cost preferences. Here's everything Metro Vancouver homeowners need to know.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Gas Tankless
Advantages
- •Higher flow rates (7-11 GPM)
- •Lower operating costs in BC
- •Works during power outages
- •Better for whole-home applications
- •Handles cold groundwater effectively
- •FortisBC rebates available
Considerations
- •Requires natural gas connection
- •More complex venting needed
- •Higher upfront installation cost
- •Annual maintenance recommended
Electric Tankless
Advantages
- •No venting required
- •Compact installation
- •Lower upfront cost
- •Ideal for point-of-use
- •99% energy efficient
- •Minimal maintenance
Considerations
- •Lower flow rates (2-4 GPM typical)
- •Higher electricity costs in BC
- •Requires significant electrical capacity
- •Less effective with cold water
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Gas Tankless If:
- Your home has natural gas service
- You need whole-home hot water capacity
- You have 2+ bathrooms
- You want the lowest operating costs
- Power outages are a concern
- You're eligible for FortisBC rebates
Choose Electric Tankless If:
- You don't have natural gas service
- You need point-of-use hot water (bathroom, kitchen)
- Your home has limited space for venting
- You have a small apartment or condo
- Lower upfront cost is priority
- Venting installation is not feasible
Need Help Choosing?
Our experts will assess your home and recommend the best tankless system for your specific needs.