Differences Between Gas Wall-Hung Boilers and Electric Wall-Hung Boilers
1. Heating Method
Gas wall-hung boilers and electric wall-hung boilers differ in their heating methods. Gas wall-hung boilers use the direct combustion of gas to heat water, which is then circulated for heating. On the other hand, electric wall-hung boilers use electric heating elements to generate heat through current exchange. These two systems have fundamental differences in their heating processes.
2. Energy Consumption
Objectively, electric heating devices tend to have a higher thermal conversion efficiency than gas-powered ones. Electric systems, particularly those equipped with variable frequency technology, can offer energy-saving benefits.
However, in practice, gas wall-hung boilers often consume less energy than electric ones. Electric appliances with high power consumption can suffer from significant energy losses, reducing their efficiency. Moreover, keeping an electric wall-hung boiler running 24/7 can strain the electrical system, posing safety risks, especially during peak electricity usage periods when the system may struggle to operate reliably.
3. Scope of Application
Gas wall-hung boilers can provide both heating and domestic hot water simultaneously. They offer comfortable heating and stable hot water supply, and they can work with either radiators or underfloor heating systems. For homes with access to natural gas, gas wall-hung boilers are typically the preferred choice.
Electric wall-hung boilers offer similar functionality but are generally more suitable for homes without natural gas or central heating networks, such as self-built houses.
4. Safety
Safety is a primary concern for both types of boilers. Gas boilers must meet safety standards related to gas pipelines and transportation. Electric wall-hung boilers, however, are generally safer, especially when equipped with leakage protection switches that automatically shut off the power if a fault is detected.
5. Price and Ongoing Costs
Gas wall-hung boilers tend to have lower upfront costs and benefit from relatively low natural gas prices, making them a popular choice among consumers. In contrast, the higher cost of electricity in some regions has limited the adoption of electric wall-hung boilers. However, some utility companies are offering incentives to encourage the use of electric heating systems.
Which Is Better: Electric or Gas Wall-Hung Boilers?
Both gas and electric wall-hung boilers have their own advantages and disadvantages. The best option depends on your specific needs. If you’re located in a colder region and need heating primarily for small tasks like washing your face and brushing your teeth, an electric boiler may suffice. However, if you need to heat larger spaces or frequently use hot water for bathing, a gas wall-hung boiler is likely the better choice. Electric boilers consume significant amounts of power when used for tasks like bathing, which can increase the load on your electrical system and reduce safety compared to gas boilers.