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Choosing between an electric water heater vs. a gas water heater comes down to personal preference. Overall, electric heaters are more energy efficient than their gas competitors. They’re also quieter to operate, take up less room, and don’t come with a risk of gas leaks. 

The downside is that electric water heaters cost more to operate than gas. They might also struggle to heat water fast enough for households that use large amounts of hot water. Lastly, a power outage could cause your electric water heater to stop working, whereas gas water heaters may still function.

A larger heater requires a larger breaker—unless there’s one already installed. The longer answer to this question is more nuanced. Do you place demands on the heater at the same time as running other heavy-duty appliances like ovens and washing machines? Do you live in an older home that may not have considered the higher electrical demands we have now? Breakers need to be sized at 125% of the load. To find that load, you should call a local electrical pro.

Several signs indicate your water heater may be failing or in need of replacement. Key indicators include:

• Age: A water heater older than ten years is approaching the end of its typical lifespan.

• Water Quality: If you notice rusty or discolored water from your hot water faucets, or a foul odor similar to rotten eggs or sulfur, it can signal internal corrosion.

• Unusual Noises: Banging, rumbling, or popping sounds from the tank often mean sediment has built up, causing the unit to overheat.

• Leaks: Any water pooling around the base of the tank or visible leaks are clear signs of failure.

• Performance Issues: A decline in performance, such as water not getting hot enough, taking longer to heat up, low water pressure, or decreased efficiency, suggests the unit is struggling.

• Visible Damage: Obvious rust and corrosion on the exterior of the tank can indicate a more serious internal problem.

While these signs often point to replacement, some issues may be fixable. It's best to consult a professional plumber to diagnose the problem before investing in a new unit.

Electric water heaters typically last 10 to 20 years, though proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency—such as higher energy bills, frequent repairs, or leaks—replacement is a smart investment. Tankless models last over 20 years, which can make them a longer-lasting alternative to traditional tank water heaters.