Rheem vs. Bradford White
Rheem and Bradford White are the two tank brands we install most. Here's the honest comparison from an installer's bench.
Read more →Gas vs. Electric Water Heater
Gas heats faster and often costs less to run; electric is cheaper to install and simpler. Here's how to choose for your NJ home.
If you're replacing a water heater, one early decision is gas versus electric. Often your existing fuel and hookups make the choice for you—but when you have options, here's how they compare.
Operating cost
In most of New Jersey, natural gas is cheaper per unit of heat than electricity, so a gas water heater usually costs less to run month to month. Electric units are simpler but typically cost more to operate—unless you choose a hybrid heat-pump model, which flips the math.
Recovery speed
Gas heats water faster, so a gas tank recovers more quickly between heavy draws. For big families with high simultaneous demand, that faster recovery matters.
Installation
- Gas: needs a gas line and proper venting; install is more involved
- Electric: needs adequate electrical capacity; simpler, often cheaper to install
- Switching fuel types adds cost (running gas/venting or upgrading electrical)
The cheapest path is usually to stay with your current fuel type. Switching from electric to gas (or vice versa) adds significant installation cost.
Efficiency and the hybrid option
A standard electric tank is simple but not cheap to run. A hybrid heat-pump electric unit is the most efficient option of all, often beating gas on operating cost—if you have the space for it.
Our recommendation
- Have gas already? A gas water heater is usually the economical, fast-recovery choice.
- All-electric home with space? Consider a hybrid for the lowest running cost.
- Tight space, electric only? A standard electric unit is simple and reliable.
Not sure?
We'll look at your hookups, demand, and budget and recommend the best fit. Call 973-834-8833.
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gas or electric water heater cheaper to run?
In most of NJ, natural gas costs less per unit of heat, so gas tanks are usually cheaper to operate—unless you choose an efficient electric hybrid heat-pump unit.
Can I switch from electric to gas?
Yes, but it requires running a gas line and venting, which adds cost. We'll tell you whether the long-term savings justify the switch.
Need a hand from a licensed NJ water heater pro? Hot Water NJ installs, repairs, and replaces every type of water heater across Northern New Jersey—usually same day. Call 973-834-8833 or request a free estimate below.