Selecting the ideal heating system for your house is an important choice that impacts costs and comfort. Gas and electric boilers are the most widely chosen options available. For many years, gas boilers have been a mainstay in many homes because they offer dependable heat and the comfort of natural gas. However, electric boilers present a potentially more efficient and cleaner option, especially in regions with a high concentration of renewable energy sources. To assist you in making the best choice for your house, let’s examine the features and running costs of these two varieties of boilers.
For a considerable amount of time, gas boilers have been preferred due to their low cost and the abundance of natural gas infrastructure. They warm your house effectively by heating water, which is then distributed through radiators or underfloor heating systems. Many homeowners find gas to be a comforting option due to its familiarity and dependability, particularly in areas where gas prices are competitive. But it’s important to take into account how burning fossil fuels will affect the environment as well as the possibility of changing gas prices over time.
Conversely, electric boilers use electricity to heat water, making them a potentially greener and more sustainable choice. Modern electric boilers can operate extremely efficiently thanks to technological advancements, especially when they’re powered by renewable energy sources like solar or wind. This makes them a desirable option for homeowners who want to lessen their carbon footprint but are also concerned about the environment. Furthermore, electric boilers provide greater installation location flexibility by doing away with the requirement for a gas connection.
A number of factors, such as installation costs, maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency, are taken into consideration when comparing the practicality of gas and electric boilers. Lower initial installation costs are usually associated with gas boilers, particularly in homes that already have gas infrastructure. On the other hand, electric boilers might provide long-term savings, especially in areas with stable electricity prices or renewable energy incentives. Furthermore, electric boilers typically have fewer moving parts, which means they require less maintenance and may save money over the long run.
In conclusion, both gas and electric boilers have advantages, and which is better for you will depend on a number of variables, such as your location, financial situation, and environmental concerns. While electric boilers offer a cleaner and possibly more sustainable option, gas boilers are more familiar and more affordable. You can make an informed choice that satisfies your heating needs while staying within your values and financial constraints by comparing the functionality and operating costs of each type of boiler.
| Aspect | Gas Boiler | Electric Boiler |
| Practicality | Efficient for larger homes with existing gas lines. Require ventilation for exhaust gases. | Compact and suitable for smaller spaces. No need for ventilation, can be installed anywhere with electricity. |
| Cost of Operation | Generally cheaper to operate than electric boilers due to lower cost of natural gas. Costs may vary based on gas prices. | Electricity tends to be more expensive than gas, resulting in higher operational costs. |
When it comes to heating and insulating your home, choosing between gas and electric boilers can be a crucial decision. Gas boilers are known for their initial cost savings and efficiency, but they require a connection to a gas supply, which may not be available in all areas. On the other hand, electric boilers are often easier to install and have lower upfront costs, but they can be more expensive to run in the long term due to higher electricity prices. Additionally, the practicality of each option depends on factors like the size of your home, your heating needs, and local energy prices. Ultimately, weighing the practicality and cost of operation of gas and electric boilers is essential for making the right choice to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.
- What is better in terms of practicality and comfort: gas or electric boiler
- Which of the boilers is more profitable and economical
- Calculating the energy efficiency of gas boiler units
- Calculating the energy efficiency of electric boilers
- What in the end is more profitable: gas or electric boiler
- Video on the topic
- Gas or electricity? The more profitable and warmer it is to heat the house?
What is better in terms of practicality and comfort: gas or electric boiler
It is common knowledge that electric boilers in the middle price range and higher (starting at 25 rubles) have nearly flawless simplicity, functionality, and operating comfort. They are completely autonomous, have functional automation, are environmentally friendly, and do not require a separate room for the boiler room, ventilation, or chimney. Furthermore, because of their straightforward design, they are incredibly dependable; even in the event of a breakage, the price of replacement heating elements or an entire heating unit can amount to as much as 10% to 15% of the boiler’s total cost.
Modern electric boilers are not only superior to gas boilers in terms of installation, operating comfort, and safety, but they also lead all other boiler types currently in use. We have compiled all of the characteristics and variations between gas and electric boilers into a single table to help the comparison flow more naturally and visually.
– Adequate air supply (natural and occasionally forced ventilation) is necessary for combustion in atmospheric models.
– A conventional chimney or coaxial chimney is necessary.
– Models needing to be connected to a three-phase (380 V) power grid are required for capacities greater than 6 kW.
+ Well-known manufacturer models featuring cast iron heat exchangers are known for their exceptional dependability and can endure up to 15 years without experiencing a single breakdown.
– Low-cost models only have a gas control system that cuts off the gas supply in the event of a draught or pressure issue.
It is also worth considering that the body of electric boilers (except for the most budgetary) already have all the necessary elements of the heating system, such as expansion tank, circulation pump, automatic air vent, safety valve and t.д. Among gas models, only wall-mounted models are characterized by such equipment (among floor standing models – only some boilers of the highest price segment).
Electric boilers are practically perfect in comparison; gas heating equipment is not comparable. When the economic aspect of the matter is considered, though, things become less black and white.
Which of the boilers is more profitable and economical
Only in terms of operating costs is a more accurate computation possible. It is crucial to remember that there are still expenses for the gas main to the home (ranging from 200 to 500 thousand rubles), as well as the price of connection, installation, and registration (between 5 and 50 thousand rubles). the price of setting up a three-phase power grid (5–15 thousand rubles) and other expenses, the precise amount of which is always determined by the particular circumstances.
All we can do is figure out and contrast the fuel costs, which are most likely going to be used to heat a private home using gas and electric boilers.
Calculating the energy efficiency of gas boiler units
There are two methods to determine the energy consumption of the gas boiler that is required for comparison: using the specific heat of combustion or the maximum natural gas flow rate, both of which are always stated in the technical specifications.
Using one of the most well-known gas boiler models as an example—the 14 kW BAXI ECO Four 1.14 F—whose maximum potential consumption is 1.6 m 3 /hour—we can approximate the maximum flow rate. 1,6(m 3 / hour) * 24(hours) = 38,4 m 3 is the amount in a day. In terms of value, the Moscow region’s current natural gas tariff (for the first half of 2020) is 3.89 RUB/m3, which is equal to 38.4(m3) * 3.89(RUB) = 149.4 rubles/day.
The calculation of natural gas’s specific heat of combustion, which is 9.3–10 kW per m3, is more realistic and precise. As a result, a gas boiler producing 1 kW of heat needs roughly 0.1-0.108 m 3 of natural gas.
In the Moscow region, an average house with two bricks of masonry and a ceiling height of 2.7 meters requires 1 kW of heat output from heating equipment for every 10 square meters. This rule is based on the described house’s average statistical heat loss of 1 kW per 10 m^2.
Let’s assume the average house mentioned above has an area of 140 m 2 and that its heat loss is 14 kW (per hour). It is 14 * 24 = 336 kW per day. That is, 336 kW of heat loss must be compensated for by the boiler, which will cost 36,96 m^ (or 0,1 m^2, the volume of gas required to produce 1 kW of heat energy) * 336 kW (the amount of heat loss per day) * 1,1 (the boiler efficiency, which varies depending on the model) = 0. The daily cost is 36,96*3,89 = 143,8 rubles.
As a result, the entire heating season is taken into account when calculating the norm of 1 kW per 10 m 2. As a result, there will be a maximum of 149.4 rubles in gas consumption due to heat losses. / In the fall and spring, the 14 kW (per day) heat loss rate is greatest on chilly days and lowest on warmer days. For the aforementioned house, the daily rate will still be 143.8 rubles during an average season.
Calculating the energy efficiency of electric boilers
Modern electric boilers have an efficiency of 99% or higher, meaning that at maximum load, a 14 kW electric boiler will use 14.14 kW of electricity. In order to streamline the computations, we will disregard efficiency values near one and instead assume that the electric boiler’s capacity equals its flow rate.
Let’s use the same 140 m 2 house, whose heat loss will be 14 kW (per hour), to provide a clear comparison. It is 14 * 24 = 336 kW per day. In other words, the electric boiler must make up for 336 kW of heat losses, which will cost it 1 307,04 rubles per day (or 336 (kW) * 3,89 (rub per 1 kW.h., the electricity tariff for the first half of 2020).
This is therefore the highest amount of energy that an electric boiler with 14 kW of heat losses can use in a day. Since the boiler unit only runs 40–70% of the time in reality, the true costs will be between 522.8 and 914.9 rubles per day, which is still a substantial amount.
What in the end is more profitable: gas or electric boiler
It is a well-known fact that, from an economic perspective, gas boilers are more profitable than electric boilers, even when accounting for the cost of connecting to the gas mains, the higher cost of gas equipment, installation and commissioning costs. Rough calculations and real-world experience both confirm that heating a home with a gas boiler is more cost-effective and economical, albeit less convenient, easy to use, and comfortable.
However, in small private homes of 40–60 m2, where the owners report that the true cost of heating with electricity is 5,000–9,000 rubles per month, electric boilers can be quite justified and cost-effective.
Investing in an electric boiler is especially more sensible if you intend to stay in the house for a short while—for the weekend, for example. The high running costs will then be offset for a considerable amount of time by the cheaper cost of the boiler and its connection. particularly if you use the following money-saving strategies.
Selecting between a gas or electric boiler for home heating can have an effect on both your comfort and your budget. While each option has advantages and disadvantages, most homeowners are more concerned with practicality and operating costs.
Gas boilers are very efficient and have relatively low operating costs, which makes them a popular choice. They heat quickly and are frequently preferred in locations with easy access to natural gas infrastructure. However, if you don’t already have a gas line installed in your home, the initial installation costs may be high.
Conversely, electric boilers provide ease of use and versatility. They don’t need a chimney or flue, which can sometimes make installation simpler and less expensive. Electric boilers are perfect for smaller homes or apartments because they are generally quieter and smaller than their gas counterparts.
However, compared to gas boilers, electric boilers typically cost more to operate, particularly in areas with high electricity prices. Furthermore, in extremely cold climates or in large homes, electric boilers may find it difficult to provide adequate heating.
The decision between an electric and gas boiler ultimately comes down to your needs, financial situation, and location. The most sensible and economical choice in the long run might be a gas boiler if you have access to a consistent and reasonably priced natural gas supply. On the other hand, an electric boiler can be the best option for you if you value flexibility and simplicity and don’t mind possibly higher operating costs.
