Gas vs. Propane Instant Heaters

Gas and Propane Similarities

• Natural gas and propane are similar in that each can be used to fuel an instant heater. They also compete against each other, and with electricity, to become the fuel that users choose to fuel their tankless instant water heaters. You can use gas or propane with a tankless system for "whole home" instant water heating or with a solo unit dedicated to supply a bathroom or a kitchen. You can fit a gas or propane tankless heater underneath a sink or inside a closet. Or, you can install a gas or propane instant heater outdoors and connect if you need a closer connection to your gas or propane delivery line. Look for a tankless system that is energy star rated. This can cut your water heating costs by up to 30 percent each year, according to EnergyStar.gov.

Gas and Propane Differences

• Keep in mind that if you go with a natural gas instant heater that uses a pilot light, you will be wasting energy. A propane model that does not require a pilot light will use less energy. Accessibility to fuel supplies is another consideration, and might tip the scale in your choice between gas and propane. If you live in an area where propane is hard to purchase or there are usage restrictions -- natural gas may be your only choice. The reverse can be the case if you live in a remote area. Propane is often the only choice for those who live on farms and in areas gas lines are "off the grid." Accessibility to fuel supplies also impacts cost differences. If you live in an area where the cost of gas is lower than propane, your savings will be reduced. Find out the cost per therm for gas and the cost per gallon for propane in your area. If the cost per therm is less than the cost per gallon for propane, going with natural gas will cost you less.

Advantages

• If you go with a gas or propane instant heater, you will eliminate "standby losses." This refers to how a traditional water heater tank stores hot water. The water is on "standby" and loses its heat if it is not used. As a result, you waste less water and energy when you use a tankless instant heater. You also gain space in your home because of the compact size of instant heaters. A traditional tank takes up as much room as an average home closet. Another considerable advantage is the lifespan of an instant heater. They will last up to 20 years, where traditional tank heaters have a maximum life expectancy of 15 years.

Disadvantages

• If you don't get a tank that's big enough to accommodate your hot water usage, you may be in for a disappointment. For example, a small residential size tanks may only hold five gallons of water at a time -- which may only be enough for one or two people. This means showering and doing the laundry at the same time will not be an option. If you want "whole house" instant water heating you will need to get a large tank, with a 20 to 40 gallon capacity. Shop wisely to choose a tank size that will accommodate your household needs and usage requirements.