The electric water heater is suitable for small homes with moderate consumption, while the gas model offers higher flow rates and generally lower operating costs. The choice mainly depends on your existing infrastructure, available space and initial budget.
Operation and Main Differences
An electric water heater uses an electric heating element to heat water, which is stored in an insulated tank. It only needs an electrical outlet and a cold water supply. The gas model works using a burner that heats water continuously or in a tank depending on the system. It requires a connection to natural gas or propane and an evacuation of combustion gases.
The major difference: the electric water heater accumulates hot water, while an instant gas heater produces it on demand. This affects your comfort and energy consumption.
Energy Consumption and Operating Costs
Gas water heaters generally consume less energy to produce the same amount of hot water. Gas heating costs are often lower than electricity rates in Switzerland, making the gas system more economical in the long term, even though it requires regular maintenance.
The electric water heater consumes more electricity, especially if it reheats the tank water several times a day. On the other hand, there is no risk of gas leaks and no mandatory maintenance.
Capacity and Flow Rate: Adapt to Your Consumption
A standard electric water heater ranges from 50 to 300 litres. A family of four typically needs 150 to 200 litres. Reheating time can be long (several hours for a full tank).
A gas water heater offers higher continuous flow rates:
• Instant gas: unlimited flow, on-demand heating, minimal space requirements • Gas with tank: more thermal stability, no temperature fluctuations • Ideal for large families or significant intermittent needs
Installation and Required Infrastructure
The electric water heater is the easiest to install. It only requires an electrical outlet, a cold water supply and drainage. No flue pipe is needed. It's perfect for small apartments or homes without gas connection.
The gas water heater requires:
• A gas supply (existing connection or new pipe) • An evacuation duct for combustion gases to the outside • Adequate ventilation in the room • More considerable space for installation
If your home does not have natural gas, installation can be expensive.
Space and Footprint
The electric tank water heater takes up significant space: you need to plan for a minimum of one square metre, mounted on the wall or placed on the floor. An instant gas heater is much more compact and wall-mounted, ideal if you lack space.
A gas tank heater also requires space, but less than an electric one of the same capacity.
Safety and Maintenance
The electric water heater is very safe and requires virtually no maintenance. You just need to regularly check the sacrificial anode (every two or three years) to prevent corrosion of the tank.
The gas water heater requires mandatory maintenance every year: sweeping, burner cleaning, joint and seal inspection. This is a legal obligation in Switzerland. This maintenance cost must be factored in over the system's lifespan.
Lifespan and Replacement
An electric water heater typically lasts 10 to 15 years. A well-maintained gas model can reach 15 to 20 years. Replacement also depends on water quality (limescale, pH) and regular maintenance.
Which Model for Your Situation?
Choose an electric water heater if:
• You live alone or as a couple with moderate consumption • Your home has no gas connection • You are looking for the simplest installation • You prefer zero mandatory maintenance • You have limited available space (compact model)
Choose a gas water heater if:
• You are a large family with high hot water needs • Your home already has a gas supply • You are looking for the lowest operating costs • You have good space and an available flue pipe • You accept mandatory annual maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions
Which water heater consumes the least energy?
The instant gas water heater offers the best energy efficiency since it only heats the water used, with no storage loss. If natural gas is not available, a thermodynamic electric water heater (heat pump) is an excellent energy-saving alternative.
Can I switch from an electric to a gas water heater?
Yes, but it requires more complex installation: gas connection, evacuation duct, plumbing work. Contact a professional to assess feasibility and costs based on your property.
How much does annual gas water heater maintenance cost?
Annual maintenance (sweeping, servicing) costs between 100 and 200 francs depending on the professional and region. WK Haustechnik in Bassersdorf can advise you on maintaining your system and offer a regular maintenance contract.
Still undecided between these two solutions? Contact WK Haustechnik at +41 79 558 84 30 for personalised advice. Our experts will assess your hot water consumption, your current infrastructure and recommend the system best suited to your needs and budget. We travel to Bassersdorf and throughout the region to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.