Overview

Interest in electric water heaters has continued to rise in recent years. More homeowners are drawn to their compatibility with modern systems and simplified installation. This blog post is for those deciding whether they should make the switch and those looking for clarity before taking the next step. Below, Knights Plumbing, LLC. explains what you’ll want to know ahead of the installation. We cover key factors in preparing for an electric water heater so that nothing catches you off guard when it’s time to install one.

Highlights

Introduction

If you’re replacing an older water heater or planning for a unit in a space without an existing gas line, an electric model might be the best option. Whether it pays off, however, depends almost entirely on how well the installation is planned. With a clear understanding of what the installation entails and what electric units need to remain functional, you can choose the right model, location, and setup to ensure consistent performance.

The first step is knowing whether an electric water heater actually suits your home.

Is an Electric Water Heater Right for Your Home?

An electric water heater can perform just as well as a gas model, but whether a unit is suited to your home depends on a mix of structural, electrical, and usage factors that vary from one home to the next. What works in one setting may not work in another.

One often overlooked factor is how and when your household uses hot water. If you have staggered demand throughout the day, a standard electric model might work well, but you also have to consider how quickly it can recover between uses and whether its output can keep pace during peak times.

An electric water heater can be right for you if:

  • You live in an area with high gas prices and stable electricity rates
  • Your home is in a region where venting gas appliances is more difficult
  • You want a quieter water heating system (as most electric models are)
  • You’re prioritizing a lower upfront cost over rapid heating/recovery
  • You’re aiming to reduce carbon emissions without modifying your plumbing

Consider Electrical Requirements for Electric Water Heater Installation

Electric water heaters place a consistent demand on your home’s electrical system. Having available power is just the start. The internal wiring, breaker configuration, and connection points must all meet the specifications of the unit being installed.

Many electric models require dedicated breakers, compatible wire types, and direct access to the main panel. If the layout doesn’t support those needs, adjustments may be required before the water heater can be connected safely and legally.

Keep in mind that some major adjustments can undermine the worth of installing an electric model. If significant changes to your electrical panel are needed—like upgrading service capacity or adding a subpanel—the added cost and complexity may outweigh the benefits of choosing electric over gas.

What Circuit Capacity Do You Need for an Electric Water Heater?

Circuit capacity is the amount of electrical current a circuit can handle without tripping or overheating. It’s measured in amps, and every appliance, including a water heater, draws a specific load that must fall within the limits of a properly matched circuit.

Most standard electric water heaters require a dedicated 240-volt circuit with a 30-amp breaker. Some smaller models may use less, while high-capacity or quick-recovery units can require more.

To match the unit to the correct capacity, a technician can:

  • Review the manufacturer’s electrical specifications for the unit
  • Inspect existing wiring for compatibility with amperage requirements
  • Measure voltage levels at the panel and connection point
  • Confirm that the length and type of wiring meets code for the load
  • Identify any shared circuits that could affect performance

Should You Replace Your Gas Water Heater With an Electric One?

To be transparent, switching from gas to electric isn’t always a straightforward upgrade, and it doesn’t always make sense financially either. If your goal is convenience or energy savings, the overall cost and scope of the change should be weighed carefully before committing.

If you do decide to make the switch, the process begins with removing the old gas unit and safely capping the gas line. From there, a professional will install a dedicated circuit for the new electric model, along with any required wiring or panel adjustments.

Once the circuit is ready, the electric unit is positioned, connected to your home’s water lines, and wired directly to the panel. The technician will then secure the unit, test for functionality, and confirm that everything meets local code before the system goes live.

Choosing the Correct Electric Water Heater Size

The size of an electric water heater determines how much hot water the tank can hold or, in the case of tankless models, how much it can deliver at once. This directly affects how long the system can meet demand before running cold. Go too small, and you’ll run short during peak use. Too large, and you’ll waste energy keeping water hot you don’t need.

Your water heater should match both the number of people in your home and the way hot water is used throughout the day. It’s one of the most important decisions in making sure the system fits your routine instead of forcing you to change it.

For instance, if you have a household of four with staggered showers, laundry, and dishes, you might do well with a 50-gallon tank. On the other hand, if you have a smaller home with low simultaneous demand, you might only need 30 to 40 gallons.

Evaluating Energy Efficiency Ratings of Electric Water Heaters

Energy efficiency ratings reflect how well a water heater converts electricity into usable hot water without wasting energy in the process. These ratings affect long-term operating costs and can be the difference between a unit that saves money and one that racks up unnecessary power usage.

To determine efficiency, look at the:

  • Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating, which measures overall efficiency under typical usage conditions
  • Energy Star label, which identifies models that meet or exceed federal efficiency standards
  • Standby heat loss, especially for tank models, to see how well the unit retains heat between uses
  • Recovery efficiency, which shows how quickly the heater restores hot water after use

What’s the Best Water Heater Brand for Efficiency?

Some brands have more efficient models than others. It’s worth exploring brands with a professional who can evaluate your specific needs and point you in the right direction.

Two manufacturers you should consider are Rheem and A. O. Smith. Both have strong reputations for reliability and offer electric units designed with efficiency in mind, though their strengths show up in different ways—Rheem in its heat control features and integration, A. O. Smith in thermal design and long-term consistency.

Where Should Your Water Heater Go?

You and your technician will need to give some thought to placement after you select a unit. Electric water heaters need to be close enough to both the electrical panel and the plumbing system to minimize energy loss and reduce installation complexity.

The simplest option is often to place the unit where an older heater was already installed, since water lines and drainage are already in place. If that location is near the main panel and meets code requirements, there’s usually little reason to relocate it.

Here are some potential options:

  • Garage: Common and convenient, but may require elevation or insulation in colder climates to protect the unit
  • Utility closet: A space-saving choice, as long as there’s adequate clearance and ventilation for maintenance access
  • Basement: Works well if plumbing and electrical access are nearby, though water delivery to upper floors may be slower
  • Laundry room: Practical when it shares plumbing lines, but may require additional electrical work if no circuit is nearby

Ultimately, the best location balances convenience, efficiency, and compliance. A qualified technician can help you weigh your options and choose a spot that ensures safe operation and long-term performance.

Post-Installation Electric Water Heater Maintenance

Maintenance won’t be necessary right after installation, but that doesn’t mean the system can be ignored for its ten or more years of service. These units are reliable, yet they still benefit from routine checks that help preserve efficiency and prevent early wear.

Over time, sediment can build up in the tank, elements may lose conductivity, and connections can loosen. Flushing the tank once a year, testing the temperature and pressure relief valve, and inspecting the electrical components can all extend the life of the unit and keep performance steady.

Call Now To Explore Water Heaters With a Professional

If you’re researching electric water heaters, bring in someone who works with these systems every day. Knights Plumbing, LLC. can assess your home’s layout, recommend a properly sized unit, and handle the installation with attention to both performance and long-term reliability.

Call (763) 286-9941 to book a consultation and get the right system in place.