Gas Geyser Vs Electric Geyser: Which is Better?

Gas Geyser Vs Electric Geyser Which is Better? The dilemma is a common one. But a detailed understanding can be enlightening when you need to make the right choice. But what is ‘Geyser’ in the first place? And how did it come to be termed likewise? Well, to start with, a Geyser is a word used to describe ‘gushing hot spring’ in Iceland. The term was coined in the year 1868 by an inventor named Benjamin Waddy Maughan. So, what is the story behind the invention of the geyser and it’s being one of the most widely used electronic appliances?  

Gas Geyser Vs Electric Geyser

Man has forever been in the quest for comfort and safety. It is this attribute that has led to some of the biggest inventions of all times. Likewise, taking a bath in the cold can be quite a challenge. With just a few exceptions, most of us love a dip in warm or hot water. But, manual heating of water for bathing purposes can be a tiresome task, though it still remains one of the methods used across many parts of the world. But, coming back to inventions, a quick and efficient method of heating water was required. So, in the year 1868, Benjamin Waddy Maughan designed and invented the very first ‘water heating’ device.

The Early Design Of The Geyser

Waddy’s water heater was quite simple in its setup and mechanism. This early known design comprised of Pipes that were heated from a burner at the bottom. The cold water was made to flow through the hot pipes, thus, heating in the process. This then flowed into a sink or the tub. Trough the design was a raging success; it still was dangerous. After all, what was to come of the gases being heated at the bottom? Where was the outlet for it? This posed great dangers to the users and also led to quite a few accidents at the time. But, it sure did lay the foundations for future success in Geyser designs.
It took about two decades for the world to perfect the water heating system. This tool place in the year 1889 by a Norwegian inventor by the name of Edwin Rudd. A Mechanical engineer by profession, Rudd was greatly influenced by Waddy’s idea. He finally ‘invented’ the geyser after immigration to the United States. Eventually, the ‘Ruud Manufacturing Company’ was founded and remains a leading company in the manufacturing of water heating designs till date.

How Does A Modern Geyser Work

Principle: The water heating system works by the conversion of energy into heat and its subsequent transfer to the water. 

Design: The design comprises of a cold water supply pipe and a hot water pipe. This is also known as the ‘outgoing pipe’ and is connected to various appliances or faucets. The fuel used for the working of the geyser is natural gas, Propane-fuelled gas or electricity. The gas-fuelled design has a burner at the bottom that heats the water. A gas valve regulates the gas supply. The fuel delivery is regulated by the ‘thermostat’ that detects the right temperature accordingly. The toxins emitted from the burner are released through a ‘vent-like’ design. This is ignited by a ‘Spark ignition’ or Pilot light. The latest models comprise of vents that are assisted by fans to eliminate the toxic fumes out effectively. 

Depending upon the fuel used, the geyser is available in two types: the Gas Geysers and the Electric Geysers. 

What is Gas Geyser?

gas geyser

As the name suggests, the Gas Geysers utilise the Liquid Petroleum Gas or the LPG for its purpose. The use of Gas makes this Geyser type ‘unlimited’ as there is no limit to the power supply. The supply of hot water is unlimited in the Gas geysers and also offers instant heating solutions. Being less power-efficient, these are also more popular.

Advantages

    • The ultimate control overheating is by the user.
    • The process of heating is steady; thus, offering power preservation.
    • Is a perfect choice for large families.
    • This type is easier to repair.
    • No electricity required for its operation.
    • Can run on both Pipeline Natural gas or LPG cylinders.

Disadvantages

    • Is not exactly a safe choice.
    • Is space consuming, as extra space is required to place the cylinder.
    • A proper ventilation is required for this type.
    • Is an outdated geyser type.
    • Has a relatively small life span, as the burners tend to damage quite often.
    • Requires professional help for installation.
    • Is not environment friendly.
    • There is a regular deposition of Sediments at the base of the tank, which needs to be removed regularly.

What is an Electric Geyser?

Electric Geyser/ Water Heater

This Geyser type comprises of an electric source utilised for the purpose of heating the water. The electric energy is converted to heat energy and is used to heat water in the tank. The hot water, after reaching an optimum temperature, is transferred through various pipelines. The principle of Convection is applied for this purpose.

Advantages

    • Can be installed at all places.
    • Is relatively easier to handle.
    • The energy source, in this case, is cheaper.
    • No pollution in this case.
    • The process of heating is almost instantaneous.
    • Has a longer lifespan.

Disadvantages

    • Requires electricity for operation and can get expensive.
    • Can lead to short-circuit at homes.

Difference Between Gas Geyser and Electric Geyser

What is the difference between a gas geyser and an electric geyser? Let us find out:

FEATURE

ELECTRIC GEYSER

GAS GEYSER

SAFETY

Is comparatively quite safe

Is not exactly the ultimate safe choice

EXPENSES

Is expensive

Is cheaper

COST

INR 0.80 for 6 L of water

INR 0.45 for 6L of water

TIME TAKEN

Quite quick

Time taking

SPACE OCCUPIED

Less

More

EFFECT ON ENVIROINMENT

None

Causes pollution

INSTALLATION

Easy

Needs professional assistance

The Conclusion

Gas Geyser Vs Electric Geyser, what is it going to be? Well, that depends:

Large Family, Low Budget: If you have a large happy family to take care of, a Gas geyser is your man. Also, as the appliance is economical, it is cost-effective in the long run. You can easily install a gas geyser if you have a large home. With an 85% efficiency rate, a gas geyser is much preferred across many homes in a country like India. 

Small Home, Big Money:  You do not have a large home, but enough money to spend; then go for an electric geyser. This is compact, can be installed at any sized-space and is perfect if you have the money to spend. Also, it is a safe option for compact spaces, as ventilation is a major problem in this case.

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