Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
4 min of reading 
0 comments 
Electric Shower or Gas Heater? Understand Which System Best Suits Your Home, Your Budget, and Your Lifestyle
The choice between an electric shower and a gas heater may seem simple, but it involves more factors than just comfort at shower time.
The type of installation, initial cost, monthly energy or gas consumption, and even the house structure are all part of the equation. Therefore, it’s important to understand how each system works before deciding.
How The Electric Shower Works
The electric shower is the most common in Brazilian households. It heats water on demand, using an internal heating element connected to the electrical network. It doesn’t require special infrastructure. Just install it and use it.
-
The village where two rivers run side by side without mixing in Santarém and Alter do Chão reveals some of the most beautiful freshwater beaches on the planet.
-
Brazil’s nuclear submarine with a speed 5 times greater than normal advances after nearly 50 years and R$ 40 billion spent.
-
A Brazilian island charges R$ 0.50 to receive visitors and prohibits any new residents.
-
Why was the Great Wall of China built? The truth that many are unaware of!
This simplicity helps explain why it is so popular. In addition, it has a low acquisition and installation cost.
However, the flow rate is usually more limited, and the temperature can fluctuate with water pressure or the power of the equipment. In colder seasons, this can cause some discomfort.
How The Gas Heater Works
The gas heater operates differently. Water is heated by a flame, powered by gas — which can be from a cylinder (LPG) or piped (NG).
The system includes a heat exchanger, ensuring a higher flow rate and constant temperature.
In addition to a more comfortable shower, the heater allows hot water to be taken to other parts of the house, such as sinks and laundries.
But installation is more complex. It requires specialized labor, specific piping, and often a pressurizer.
How Much It Costs To Install A Gas Heater
The cost to have a complete gas heater at home is not low. A model with a capacity of 15 liters per minute costs about R$ 1,500. The complete kit also includes:
- Pressurizer: R$ 450
- Single Handle: R$ 200
- Installation with exhaust kit and piping: R$ 1,470
Add it all up, and the final amount is around R$ 3,600. It is a high investment and is only worth it in certain cases, mainly due to the monthly cost of gas.
Consumption With Cylinder Gas (LPG)
For a person who showers every day for 10 minutes, the monthly consumption is approximately one 13 kg cylinder.
This cylinder costs around R$ 110. For two people, the expense doubles, reaching R$ 220.
Consumption With Piped Gas (NG)
With natural gas, the cost changes. Each 10-minute shower consumes about 0.27 m³ of NG. The price per cubic meter ranges from R$ 4 to R$ 5.
That amounts to between R$ 1 and R$ 1.35 per shower. At the end of the month, the expense is between R$ 30 and R$ 40 per person.
When The Electric Shower Is More Worthwhile
For those living alone or as a couple, the electric shower is usually the best choice. It is cheaper, easy to install, and requires less maintenance.
It also pays off in the long run, as the electricity bill tends to be lower than the gas expense in many cases.
More modern models offer electronic controls and various temperature options. In regions with mild winters, it remains a practical solution.
When The Gas Heater Is Worth It
For larger families or people seeking more comfort in the shower, the gas heater makes more sense. It provides a constant temperature, greater flow, and can supply more points in the house.
In areas with piped natural gas, the system becomes even more advantageous. The cost per shower decreases, the monthly bill is predictable, and there is no need to change cylinders. The experience is more comfortable and efficient.
Lifetime And Maintenance Of Each System
The electric shower usually lasts from two to three years, possibly reaching five with proper care. Maintenance is simple, often resolved by replacing the heating element.
Replacing the unit is also practical and economical.
On the other hand, the gas heater has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, it requires periodic maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency.
It’s ideal to have a review annually. Newer models come with sensors and systems that help prevent issues, but professional maintenance is essential.
What Is The Best Choice?
If the priority is economy and practicality, the electric shower remains unbeatable. It is easy to install, solves the shower issue, and does not require major adaptations.
Its maintenance is simple, and the initial investment is much lower.
On the other hand, those who value comfort and have a home ready to accommodate the system can opt for the gas heater.
Especially in areas with piped natural gas, where the monthly expense is close to that of the electric shower but with a superior level of comfort.
In any case, the gas system requires more attention. The cost is not only in the installation but also in the annual reviews and maintenance, which are essential to keep the equipment functioning well for many years.
With information from Canal Tech.
-
Uma pessoa reagiu a isso.