When it comes to being a homeowner, selecting the right water heater for your household is very important. After all, who wants to run out of hot water in the middle of a shower?
With the vast array of options available in today's market, the task can feel quite daunting. This article will provide you with a useful guide to help you navigate the process and make an informed choice.
Different Types of Water Heaters
In today’s market, here are the most common types of water heaters:
A Storage Tank Water Heater consists of a tank that stores a predetermined amount of hot water. As you use the hot water, it is replenished with cold water, which is then heated. Storage tank water heaters are widely prevalent and come in options powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane.
Tankless Water Heaters very different than their storage tank counterparts. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand. So there is no need for a large storage tank. This gives you a continuous supply of hot water and are more energy-efficient. The one drawback is the initial purchase and installation costs of tankless water heaters tend to be higher.
The innovative Heat Pump Water Heaters utilize electricity to transfer heat from the air or ground to warm the water. This results in exceptional energy efficiency. The Heat Pump Water Heater does come with a higher price tag for both the purchase and installation.
Factors to Consider in order to fit your household needs.
- The size of the water heater is crucial. It must be able to meet your household's hot water demands. Take into consideration the number of occupants, daily water usage, and peak hot water usage periods.
- Opting for an energy-efficient water heater can significantly reduce your utility bills over time. Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings. The higher the rating number, the more energy efficiency you will earn.
- The type of fuel you choose can be higher in some areas depending on the availability and cost of different fuel types. Electric water heaters are widely accessible, while natural gas or propane options may require specific connections.
- Installation Costs: Make sure you understand and fully evaluate the installation requirements and the cost associated with each type of water heater. Tankless and heat pump water heaters often necessitate specialized installation, which can increase the cost over traditional tank installations.
- Lifespan and necessary maintenance can be another hidden cost. Some models may need regular servicing, while others are more hands-off. Obviously, cheaper models of any water heater type can reduce the lifespan of the unit. Reading reviews can be very informative.
Ace Plumbing offers many options for your water heating needs. Some plumbers are quick to recommend a new water heater vs. repair. Professional, trustworthy and experienced companies like Ace will first look at repair options.
