Old Electric hot water heater has died :(( Now trying to decide what to buy; a new one or change to gas or try a heat pump or dreaming about solar (don't have north facing roof and have too many trees so solar may not be viable). Any advice? Leaning towards gas but not sure my gas bill will be less or more than off peak electricity. Like the idea of heat pump but hearing bad reviews- Totally confused- PLEASE HELP!

Gas bill will be lower than electric. You can also consider installing tankless hot water heater. Tankless water heater uses gas only when there is a demand for hot water. Start up cost is a bit high but energy savings are great. I have no experience with "heat pump" water heaters, so I will leave commentary on this system to our other Experts.

Good luck and let us know which system you decided to go with. Back to you. Milo

Before you purchase a new hot water heater I have a link I want you to check out. This link will give you pros and cons on every type of WH. Click on
Choosing a New Water Heater | The Family Handyman to see. Be informed before you buy. Good luck, Tom