Do Gas Tankless Water Heaters Require Electricity?

You might be surprised to learn that gas tankless water heaters still need power. Discover why and what happens during an outage.

The Short Answer: Yes

Even though natural gas provides the heat, almost all modern gas tankless water heaters require electricity to operate.

Why Do They Need Power?

• Electronic Ignition: They don't have a standing pilot light. Electricity is needed to spark the burner when water flows.
• Sensors and Computers: The internal computer board regulates water flow, gas valves, and temperature sensors to ensure precise heating.
• Exhaust Fan: A powered fan safely vents the exhaust gases out of your home.

What Happens During a Power Outage?

If the power goes out, a gas tankless water heater will not function, meaning you won't have hot water. For areas with frequent outages, a battery backup system can be installed to keep the unit running.