Electric vs. Gas Water Heaters: What’s Best for Idaho?

When you're in the market for a new water heater in Idaho, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to go with electric or gas. Both types have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your home setup, energy preferences, and household hot water demands. In this post, we’ll break down how each system works, compare their pros and cons, and explore what makes one better than the other in an Idaho-specific context. 

1. What’s the Difference Between Gas and Electric Water Heaters? 

When it comes to water heating, most Idaho homeowners are choosing between two main types: gas and electric. While both options provide reliable hot water, they operate differently, have unique installation needs, and vary in cost and efficiency. Here's a breakdown of how each system works: 

Electric Water Heaters 

• How it works: Uses electric heating elements inside the tank. 

• Installation: Generally simpler—no need for gas lines or venting. 

• Efficiency: Near 100% efficient at converting power to heat, but electricity costs are usually higher than gas. 

• Recovery rate: Slower to heat new water after usage. 

• Best for: Homes without access to natural gas or lower hot water demand. 

  
  

Gas Water Heaters 

• How it works: Heats water using a burner powered by natural gas or propane. 

• Installation: More complex—requires gas hookup and proper venting. 

• Efficiency: Slightly lower than electric, but often cheaper to operate due to lower gas prices. 

• Recovery rate: Heats water faster, ideal for households with multiple occupants. 

• Best for: Homes with existing gas lines and higher water usage needs. 

2. Pros and Cons at a Glance 

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the key differences: 

Feature	Electric Water Heater	Gas Water Heater
Energy Source	Electricity	Natural Gas or Propane
Installation Cost	Lower	Higher (venting/gas line required)
Operating Cost	Higher (per kWh)	Lower (per term)
Efficiency	~99%	~60–70%
Heating Speed	Slower	Faster
Maintenance	Minimal	May require more servicing
Environmental Impact	Cleaner if powered by renewables	Produces carbon emissions

3. What Idaho Homeowners Should Consider 

Choosing the right water heater in Idaho isn’t just about performance—it’s about how that performance fits into your home and lifestyle. Here are some key local factors: 

Climate & Demand 

• Idaho’s cold winters mean your water heater will work harder, especially in basements or garages. Gas water heaters typically perform better in these conditions due to faster recovery rates. 

  
  

Utility Rates 

• Electricity in Idaho (through Idaho Power) is relatively affordable, especially compared to national averages. 

• Natural gas (through Intermountain Gas) is still generally cheaper per BTU, making gas more cost-effective in many homes. 

  
  

Availability & Infrastructure 

Older homes or those in rural areas might not have access to natural gas. In those cases, electric is often the only practical choice without major retrofitting. 

Rebates & Incentives 

There may be local energy-efficiency incentives for installing ENERGY STAR-rated electric heat pump water heaters. Check with Idaho Power or local energy programs. 

4. So, Which Is Best for You? 

The answer depends on your specific situation: 

• Go with gas if:  Your home already has natural gas, you have a larger household, or you want faster recovery during high demand. 

• Go with electric if:  Your home lacks a gas line, you want a simpler and potentially safer installation, or you’re looking into heat pump water heater options. 

  
  

At Just Water Heaters, we specialize in helping Idaho homeowners find the right solution for their needs. Whether you’re upgrading your current system or starting fresh, we’re here to provide expert guidance and efficient installation. 

Need Help Choosing? 

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your home’s needs and help you make the right call—so you never get left in the cold.