Electric boiler vs. gas boiler: Which is better for your home?

Selecting the right boiler for your home is a critical choice, as heating and hot water account for a large part of your household energy use. Whether you're upgrading an old system or planning a new installation, understanding the pros and cons of electric boiler vs. gas boiler is essential. 

This guide on gas boiler vs. electric boiler breaks down key factors like energy efficiency, costs, and environmental impact to help you find the best solution for your home.

What is an electric boiler? 

Electric boilers offer energy-efficient, quiet solution for heating your home (Source: iStock)

An electric boiler heats water using electricity, typically for use in central heating systems and domestic hot water. It doesn't rely on burning fossil fuels, making it a cleaner and quieter option. 

This type of boiler is often smaller, easier to install, and can fit into compact spaces. They’re particularly well-suited for homes without a gas supply or for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

One major advantage of an electric boiler is that it can pair well if you’re planning to install solar panels, further reducing your environmental impact and reliance on traditional energy sources. It’s also versatile and can work with a range of heating systems, including underfloor heating and radiators.

What is a gas boiler? 

Gas boilers offer a powerful solution for heating larger homes and water systems (Source: iStock)

A gas boiler uses natural gas or liquid propane to generate heat, delivering hot water for faucets and central heating. Gas boilers are known for their high power output, making them capable of heating larger homes efficiently. They are also more cost-effective in terms of running costs, especially in areas where natural gas is cheaper than electricity.

However, gas boilers require regular maintenance, including annual servicing, and the installation process can be more complex due to the need for flue systems and ventilation. Additionally, they’re not as environmentally friendly as electric boilers, emitting greenhouse gases during operation.

Gas boiler vs. electric boiler: What are their key differences?

Choosing between an electric boiler and a gas boiler for your home involves weighing up various factors such as efficiency, installation costs, running expenses, and environmental impact. This guide will walk you through the key differences between the two options, offering practical insights to help you decide which system is the best fit for your household and heating requirements.

In terms of energy efficiency

Electric boilers are your top choice for energy efficiency and reducing your carbon footprint (Souce: iStock)

Electric boilers are highly energy efficient. Most models achieve close to 100% efficiency because they convert all the electricity they consume into heat. However, the overall efficiency depends on how the electricity is generated. If the electricity comes from renewable sources, the efficiency and environmental benefits increase.

Gas boilers, while efficient in their operation, lose some energy through exhaust gases, with efficiency rates typically around 90-95%. Although, modern condensing gas boilers are now designed to recover and reuse some of this lost energy, improving their performance.

In terms of environmental impact

Electric boilers are a cleaner option as they produce no on-site emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice. They’re powered entirely by electricity, and when that electricity comes from renewable sources, their operation results in zero greenhouse gas emissions. This makes them ideal for households looking to minimize their carbon footprint.

In contrast, gas boilers rely on burning fossil fuel, which releases carbon into the atmosphere as part of their operation. This contributes to a higher carbon footprint compared to electric boilers, even if they’re efficient. While modern condensing gas boilers are designed to reduce emissions and improve efficiency, they still emit greenhouse gases that negatively impact the environment.

In terms of heating time

Gas boilers are ideal for quickly heating water in homes with high hot water demand (Source: iStock)

In terms of heating time, gas boilers heat water quickly, making them ideal for larger homes or households with high hot water demand. They can supply hot water to multiple faucets simultaneously, providing a fast and reliable heating solution during colder months.

Electric boilers, while efficient, typically take longer to heat water compared to gas boilers. They are better suited for smaller homes with moderate water usage. However, adding a hot water storage system can help improve the heating speed of electric boilers in larger households.

In terms of installation

Electric boiler installations are generally simpler and can be integrated with modern heating systems, such as underfloor heating. They don’t require vent pipes or ventilation systems, which also means they’re more flexible in terms of placement. But, keep in mind that you’ll still need a qualified electrician to safely connect the boiler to your home’s electrical system. 

The average cost of installing an electric boiler in the US is usually between $1,500 and $9,000, depending on the unit's size and brand. 

Gas boilers require additional components, such as flue pipes and ventilation, making the installation process more complex and often more expensive. 

The average cost of installing a gas boiler in the U.S. ranges from $3,700 to $10,000, depending on the boiler's size and features.

In terms of running costs

When choosing between gas vs. electric boilers, it's important to balance running costs with environmental benefits (Source: iStock)

When planning a heater replacement, it’s important to factor in the running costs of both electric and gas boilers to determine which option is more cost-effective in the long term.

Electric boilers tend to have higher running costs due to the price of electricity, which averages  around 16.21 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in the US. Operating a 12kW electric boiler for 70 hours a month would consume 840 kWh, costing approximately $136.

Gas boilers are generally cheaper to run, with natural gas costing around $1.14 per therm. Running a gas boiler for the same 70-hour period would cost about $86, making it a more economical option. However, factors like boiler efficiency, home insulation, and maintenance can impact overall operating costs.

In terms of maintenance

Electric boilers have fewer moving parts and don’t require components like vent pipes or gas supply lines, making them easier and cheaper to maintain. Annual checks are still recommended but are generally simpler and less costly.

Gas boilers, however, require regular servicing to ensure safety and efficiency, and prevent boiler repair and replacement. This includes checks for gas leaks, carbon monoxide emissions, and wear on key components.

Enjoy hassle-free boiler installation with Airtasker

Your choice of boiler plays a big role in creating a warm and energy-efficient home, whether your goal is reducing running costs or lowering your carbon footprint. 

Airtasker makes it easy to find trusted experts for electric or gas boiler installations. Get started now and enjoy a seamless process, from installation to repairs and regular maintenance, all handled by qualified HVAC professionals. Plus, you can compare profiles, reviews, and quotes to find the best fit for your needs and budget.