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Richmond Buyer's Guide

Gas vs. Electric
which one saves in the 804?

Real numbers for a Richmond home — Dominion Energy rates, Columbia Gas rates, install cost, and how fast you get hot water back.

Ask a Richmond plumber · (804) 434-0263
Gas
Fast recovery, lower monthly cost
Monthly cost (avg 4-person Richmond home)
$28 – $40
Recovery rate
~40 gal/hr
Install cost (straight swap)
$1,449 – $2,199
Lifespan
10 – 12 years
  • Cheaper to run — Columbia Gas rates beat Dominion Energy on BTU/$
  • Recovers hot water 2× faster than electric
  • Works during power outages if it has a standing pilot
  • Needs a gas line, T&P vent, and combustion air
  • Requires B-vent or power-vent — some closets don't qualify
  • Modest annual permit + inspection in Richmond city
Electric
Simple, safe, cheap to install
Monthly cost (avg 4-person Richmond home)
$45 – $65
Recovery rate
~20 gal/hr
Install cost (straight swap)
$1,199 – $1,899
Lifespan
10 – 15 years
  • No gas line, no venting — installs almost anywhere
  • Slightly longer tank life (no combustion corrosion)
  • Safer in closets, attics, and finished basements
  • 50–70% higher monthly bill in Richmond
  • Slow recovery — teens back-to-back drain the tank
  • Down when the power's out
The RVA plumber's verdict

If you have a gas line — get gas.

The install premium ($200–$300) pays back inside 18 months on a Richmond utility bill. Only go electric if there's no gas at the tank location or you need to install in a finished attic/closet where combustion venting is off the table.

Common questions

Free · Both options priced

Not sure which fuel to pick?

Text or call — we'll price both side-by-side for your Richmond home.

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Also comparing tank size and style?

Read Tankless vs. Tank
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