Can I switch from a gas water heater to electric or vice versa?

• <div><p>When replacing an old unit, you might want to switch from a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/gas-vs-electric-water-heaters.htm">gas water heater to an electric water heater</a> or vice versa. To do this, you will likely need to add infrastructure to the area. For example, you likely don’t have a gas line that served your old electric water heater. You’d have to call a plumber to put in a new gas line. If you’re replacing a gas unit with an electric one, the plumber will need to safely cap the old gas line. You will then need an electrician to add wiring for the new electric unit.</p></div>

What are the pros and cons of electric water heaters?

• <div><p>Every type of water heater has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding those can help you decide the best type for your situation and budget. </p><p>Pros</p><ul><li><p>Safer than gas or propane</p></li><li><p>Doesn’t require extensive venting systems</p></li><li><p>Lower upfront costs</p></li><li><p>Simpler to operate</p></li><li><p>No pilot light</p></li><li><p>Easier installation</p></li><li><p>More efficient heating than gas models</p></li><li><p>Available as point-of-use (POU) and whole-house units</p></li></ul><p>Cons</p><ul><li><p>Slower to heat water</p></li><li><p>Longer recovery time</p></li><li><p>Possibly higher operating costs</p></li><li><p>Doesn’t work during a power outage</p></li><li><p>Costs can increase without a 240-volt connection</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Best water heater pros near Ranier, MN

Q: How long does a tankless water heater last?

• <div><p>A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.</p></div>

Q: Is a tankless water heater better than a storage tank water heater?

• <div><p>Tankless water heaters are more expensive than those with a storage tank, but they come with some impressive benefits that most homeowners find worth the higher investment. Most importantly, they provide unlimited hot water, so you&rsquo;ll never run out like you would with a storage tank. Tankless heaters are also more efficient, so comparing gallon-for-gallon, you&rsquo;ll spend less on hot water with a tankless heater. Tankless water heaters are also smaller, require less maintenance, and tend to last longer than storage tank water heaters.</p></div>

Q: Do electric water heaters need ventilation around them?

• <div><p>Electric water heaters do not need an attached vent, but the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/does-location-my-water-heater-matter.htm">location of the water heater</a> should allow for roughly 12 inches of clearance around it. This allows cool air to flow around the appliance and allows repair technicians to work on its components safely. The exact amount of clearance space required depends on your local building codes. </p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water heater service project in Ranier, MN?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Ranier, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Ranier, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Ranier, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

Last update on March 25, 2022

Reviewed in March 2022
I hired Jeremy to do a couple fence jobs to remove the old fence and replace with new. I asked for three estimates based on reviews of the contractors. Jeremy actually had the best review of the three. The reviews were correct. He did a great job, was timely and professional. He hauled off the...
Tangible Property Improvements
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2020
If you are looking to move then look no further. USA Family Moving is the company you must hire. My belongings were packed in boxes and all the furniture’s were covered nicely to prevent it from damage. At the end it was all delivered safe and sound. I would like to thank you for the complete...
USA Family Moving, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2020
Came out and gave appropriate estimate the same day I called Gave me a start date, and started and completed the work on time. Found other problems with the project and let me know in advance. Work was top quality. would definitely hire again
Fuse Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2018
We went into the office and explained the problem and our situation. He said that it might take a few days to find time to get out there. We got a call the next day about them coming to check it out. We told them what we knew and they asked other questions. In checking the boxes he found the...
KANTOR ELECTRIC INC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2016
They showed up on time and did a professional job.
UpNorth Home Inspector
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2015
Repair was very quick, Tim was quick to respond to my call and to fit me in his schedule. He's an honest small town guy. Great experience and would call him again for sure. <br />
BROWN'S GARAGE DOOR SVC
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2014
They are fantastic to work with. They come prepared and do a good job. They technicians that come are very well trained and always come on time. We have used them for plumbing, installing an air circulation unit, etc. They also checked our furnace and air conditioner.
Shannon's Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2012
They are real good. I use them all summer. I like everything about them. They will do extra things if I ask them. I don't have to call them. When the yard needs mowed they do it. Everything is top notch.
Boyer's Scrub-A-Rug & Lawn Care
Request a quote

Top-Rated Water heater pros in Ranier - Updated Nov 2026

Aquarius Home Services

4.6(

260

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Ranier, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1987

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Paul did excellent work on replacing our pressure tank. Also, redid plumbing pipes by water heater."

Response time12 hrs

Response rate100%

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Ranier, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"He was very nice to talk with and repaired our washing machine. He even helped sweep the water out."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Request Quote

Custom Carpentry and Woodworking

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Ranier, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are your locally owned and operated one stop for all of your home needs. We offer everything from dirt work, brush hogging, custom landscaping, hardscaping, one of a kind outdoor kitchens, rock, or gravel. If it is in your dirt, I am your guy! \n\nI also offer beautiful, one of a kind, restoration, installation and fabrication of custom wood flooring, cabinetry and countertops, hand made wood furniture or any other wood project. I bring a level of craftsmanship only equaled of those times past.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Mesabi Recreation, Inc.

New to Angi

Solar Water Heater System - Install

Serving Ranier, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

We have been in business for 28 solid years. We provide all of our clients nothing but exceptional service - day in and day out. Whether the project is major or minor, Mesabi takes pride and stands behind all work. We look forward to providing you with the satisfaction that our customers have become to expect!

Request Quote

Water Heaters FAQs, answered by experts

When replacing an old unit, you might want to switch from a gas water heater to an electric water heater or vice versa. To do this, you will likely need to add infrastructure to the area. For example, you likely don’t have a gas line that served your old electric water heater. You’d have to call a plumber to put in a new gas line. If you’re replacing a gas unit with an electric one, the plumber will need to safely cap the old gas line. You will then need an electrician to add wiring for the new electric unit.

A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Tankless water heaters are more expensive than those with a storage tank, but they come with some impressive benefits that most homeowners find worth the higher investment. Most importantly, they provide unlimited hot water, so you’ll never run out like you would with a storage tank. Tankless heaters are also more efficient, so comparing gallon-for-gallon, you’ll spend less on hot water with a tankless heater. Tankless water heaters are also smaller, require less maintenance, and tend to last longer than storage tank water heaters.

Every type of water heater has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding those can help you decide the best type for your situation and budget.

Pros

Safer than gas or propane
Doesn’t require extensive venting systems
Lower upfront costs
Simpler to operate
No pilot light
Easier installation
More efficient heating than gas models
Available as point-of-use (POU) and whole-house units

Cons

Slower to heat water
Longer recovery time
Possibly higher operating costs
Doesn’t work during a power outage
Costs can increase without a 240-volt connection

Electric water heaters do not need an attached vent, but the location of the water heater should allow for roughly 12 inches of clearance around it. This allows cool air to flow around the appliance and allows repair technicians to work on its components safely. The exact amount of clearance space required depends on your local building codes.

The Ranier, MN homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Heather Ayer
•
Oct 16, 2026Oct 16, 2026
How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Oct 26, 2026Oct 26, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Heat Pump Water Heater? [2026 Data]
Learn all the factors that influence the cost to install a heat pump water heater at your home.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Oct 30, 2026Oct 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Dan Simms
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Water Heater Installation Pro
Done with cold showers and dish washing? Hire a water heater installation pro near you to get back to comfort and safety quickly.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Can Install a Water Heater In Your Home?
Who can install a water heater for you? Look to hire a water heater installation pro or a licensed plumber for this job because of the challenges involved.
C.E. Larusso
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.