Hot Water Heater Buying Guide
Taking a cold shower or paying high energy bills are not something anyone wants to do. Hot water heaters are important because they provide cost-effective and dependable hot water for your household.
Purchasing a Water Heater
Whether you’ve just experienced your first unexpectedly chilly shower or just want to lower your energy bills, investing in a new hot water tank is a wise decision. Follow these procedures to avoid having to guess about your appliance’s operation and fix problems:
- Determine the source of the fuel
- Select the type of heater you want
- Find out how much capacity you have
- Take a measurement of the space
Water Heater Fuel Sources
To begin, identify the sort of fuel source that is currently in use in your home. The following table summarizes the distinctions between electric, gas/propane, and hybrid fuel types.
Electric Hot Water Tanks:
- To heat water, one or two interchangeable heating components should be used. Compared to other sorts, it is less costly. There is a wide range of high-efficiency alternatives available
- Sizes range from 28 to more than 100 gallons.
- It is necessary to use a burner to heat the water
- It also requires flowing air around it. It is not possible to keep flammable items near by
- Water heaters that use gas are more costly than electric water heaters. Water heaters that use less energy than electric water heaters
- Sizes ranging from 30 to 100 gallons are available.
- Make use of the energy in the air to heat the water
- It is possible to utilize either outside air or air from the room where it is being kept. Water tanks are available as built-in units or as add-ons to existing tanks. Electric water heaters that are larger than conventional models
- An early investment that is more expensive
- It is more energy efficient, which results in cheaper utility expenses. Sizes available range from 50 to 80 gallons.
Types of Water Heaters
When selecting a water heater, take into account the size of your household as well as the availability of utilities in your location.
Storage Tank
This is the most often seen form of water heater. They feature an insulated tank where water is heated and kept until it is required. They are available in three different fuel types: electric, liquid propane, and natural gas. Water heaters powered by natural gas or propane often consume less energy and are less expensive in operation than electric versions of the same size. When purchasing a water heater, it is important to consider its energy efficiency as well as its annual operating expenses.
- Tankless water heaters do not have a storage tank for hot water.
- Because a tankless water heater simply warms water as it is consumed, it is often more energy efficient than a standard storage tank water heater because it is not required to keep unneeded water hot.
- A tankless water heater can only deliver a limited amount of hot water at a given time.
- These units are a fantastic solution for anyone whose needs do not generally require hot water from more than two sources at the same time.
- Utility water heaters are often available in capacities ranging from 2.5 to 19 gallons.
- Water heaters for mobile homes are available.
- All heaters must be certified by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Electric heaters are often less expensive than gas heaters.
- You’ll also want to think about where you’re going.
If there is access to the water from the outside, a basic gas water heater will suffice. When installation, make sure to double-check your dimensions because mobile home door openings might be significantly smaller than those of a typical home.
Water Heater Tank Capacity
In the United States, storage tank water heaters are categorised based on the amount of water they can store in gallons. Identifying the amount of hot water your home requires on a regular basis is critical to ensuring enough hot water supplies throughout the year. With the exception of tankless water heaters, you’ll need a larger tank to accommodate a larger family. Another factor to consider when purchasing a storage tank water heater is the recovery rate, which refers to the number of gallons of water it can heat in an hour while simultaneously replenishing the tank.
If you want to utilize a tank water heater, you may use these suggestions as a reference to determine the size of the tank you’ll require.
Minimum Gallon Capacity Recommendations
Tank water heaters are categorised according to how much water they can hold in gallons. The amount of hot water used by your home on an average should be determined in order to guarantee that your family has enough. For a larger family, you’ll need a larger water heater tank, unless you go for the tankless option. It is also important to evaluate the recovery rate of storage tank water heaters. This is defined as the number of gallons of water it can heat in an hour while simultaneously replenishing the tank.
In the event that you wish to utilize a tank water heater, you may use the following suggestions as a reference to determining the size that you require.
Gas Water Heater:
Storage tank water heaters are categorised according to the quantity of water they can retain in gallons. It is essential to establish how much hot water your household uses on a regular basis in order to guarantee that you have adequate hot water. If you don’t go with a tankless water heater, you’ll need a larger tank to accommodate a larger family. Another factor to consider when purchasing a storage tank water heater is the recovery rate, which is the number of gallons of water it can heat in an hour while simultaneously replenishing the tank.
In the event that you decide to utilize a tank water heater, you may use these suggestions as a reference to determining the appropriate size for your needs.
Space for the Water Heater
If you don’t have enough room for a standard-sized water heater, there are other options. All of these solutions give the same degree of performance and may be used with either electric or gas systems (natural gas or propane).
Lowboys or Short Water Heaters
These water heaters are both shorter and broader than a standard water heater. They contain the same amount of water as their larger counterparts while yet being able to fit into tight spots such as crawlspaces and below cupboards. Lowboys are available in sizes ranging from 30 to 49 inches in height and can store up to 50 gallons of water.
Tall Water Heaters
High-capacity water heaters are available in sizes ranging from 50 to 76 inches in height and can accommodate up to 100 gallons of water.
They’re perfect for basements or garages where there isn’t a concern about height. In addition, hybrid water heaters require additional room in order to perform correctly, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before installing one of these units.
Advanced Technology
This feature is available for electric water heaters and prevents the higher element from burning out if the appliance detects that there is no water nearby.
ENERGY STAR ®and High-Efficiency Ratings
It is the most trusted and government-backed emblem of energy efficiency on the market today. This grade assists consumers in saving money while also conserving the environment via the use of energy-efficient items and procedures. Consider investing in a high-efficiency water heater to save money while also benefiting the environment. The energy factor (EF) rating of a water heater is used to determine its efficiency. The greater the efficiency factor (EF), the more efficient the model. However, while some of the most energy-efficient versions may be a little more expensive initially, they are meant to be more ecologically friendly and to save you money over time.
This information provides you with a sense of how the water heater model you’re considering is projected to perform, and it also includes an estimate of the model’s yearly operating cost, if applicable.
Intuitive Technology
A new generation of water heaters adapts the temperature and other operational aspects to your personal demands and usage patterns in a simple and easy manner. Improved energy economy, enhanced durability, and smarter performance are just a few of the advantages of choosing a heater that is integrated with artificial intelligence of this type.
A Premium Electronic Gas Valve
Certain gas water heaters now include an electronic gas valve, which is more efficient. This results in more consistent and precise performance for better temperature control and faster hot water recovery than a standard mechanical gas valve since it has fewer moving parts than a mechanical gas valve. Using a light-emitting diode (LED) indicator, you can validate that the pilot is lighted and get diagnostic input on how well the system is performing. With a thermopile, this novel valve can operate entirely on its own power.
Because there is no requirement for an external power supply, installation is straightforward.
Wi-Fi Water Heater Capabilities
Electric water heaters that have a Wi-Fi module are currently available on the market. It allows you to regulate the temperature of your water from a distance. Set up a customized schedule so that hot water is only accessible in your water heater tank when it is needed, resulting in significant savings on your energy expenditure. It will also give you an alarm if your hot water supply is running low.
Accessories
Water heater accessories are available to help you increase the safety and efficiency of your water heater by enhancing its functionality.
Expansion Tanks
The water heater’s expansion tanks are connected to the water heater by a plumbing system. It is the purpose of these water heater tanks to store the additional volume of water that can be created when cold water is heated in the tank.
Water Heater Timers
Hot water heater timers are linked into the unit’s electrical supply and may be programmed to ensure that the water heater only uses power during specific hours of the day or night.
By only using the water heater when it is absolutely necessary, you may reduce your energy consumption and save money.
Water Leak Detectors and Alarms
Water leak detectors can be found on the floor or in a pan beside the water heater, depending on the model. A liquid leak or overflow will cause the alarm to detect the liquid and sound an audio alarm, alerting the homeowner that there is a problem. Some of these alarms are also integrated with Wi-Fi, allowing you to get notifications on your smartphone.
Water Heater Insulation Blankets
They are designed to be installed above the unit and to improve the insulating properties of the water heater. Heating systems installed in garages or other unheated areas benefit from the use of insulating blankets.
Water Heater Pans
There are many pans that sit beneath the heater and catch water from leaks or overflows produced by excessive pressure in the tank. The side of the pan features a hole for a drain hose, which may be used to remove any excess water.
Water Heater Stands
Water heater stands elevate gas-powered units off the ground, reducing the risk of a fire in the case of a flammable liquid spill in the immediate vicinity of the unit. If you’re replacing an old water heater and installing a stand along with your new one, your measurements, piping, and venting will be affected as a result. It will be necessary to hire a professional to install it if you do not have extensive plumbing expertise.
Water Heater Buying Guide
In a recent test, Consumer Reports evaluated six electric and gas whole-house tankless water heaters from manufactures including Bosch, Noritz, Rheem, Rinnai, Tempra, and Trutankless. A tanked water heater from Rheem, one that is gas and one that is electric, as well as an electric heat pump water heater from Rheem, which is a variant on a tanked water heater, were all used to compare the outcomes. Based on the results of an industry-standard “heavy usage” test, we compared the performance of natural gas and electric tankless water heaters to that of their conventional tank equivalents.
The daily equivalent of taking many showers, running the dishwasher, washing one load of clothes, and repeatedly turning the tap on and off.
The intended outlet temperature was 120° F, and the test employed these temperatures.
As a result, we do not have model-level ratings for refrigerators, as we do for other major appliances.
Tankless units that were installed in lieu of an existing storage tank had a longer payback period than those installed during new construction. For further information, see our gas and electric water heater ratings.
The Complete Hot Water Heater Buying Guide
It is estimated that the average water heater will last between 8 and 12 years and will contribute for around 15 to 20% of your monthly electricity expenditure. For this reason, whether your water heater is getting on in age, or if you’re expanding or renovating a bathroom, keep these three fundamental guidelines in mind while looking for a typical storage water heater: Don’t hurry things; size does important. Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important. To be sure, an ice-cold shower or a leaky heater makes it even more vital to get a new heater installed as soon as possible.
Hot Water Heater Sizes
Even if you were satisfied with the previous tank, don’t immediately assume it had the necessary heating capacity for the new installation. To figure out how much hot water your home consumes during the busiest hour of the day, you must first add up how much hot water your household uses on a daily basis. “Size a water heater to meet your needs 363 days a year, not just on the one or two days when you have 25 relatives coming,” advises Richard Trethewey, a plumbing and heating specialist for This Old House.
If you have a high demand for hot water, the FHR will inform you how many gallons the heater can generate in an hour.
Assess Efficiency
You should not simply assume that your old tank had the necessary heating capacity, even if you were satisfied with it before. If you want to know how much hot water your home consumes during the busiest hour of a typical day, you must first add up how much hot water your household uses on a daily basis. According to This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, “Size a water heater for your need 363 days a year, not just on the one or two days when you have 25 relatives coming.” You will wind up with an energy-sucking beast in the basement if you do not.
If you have a high demand for hot water, the FHR will tell you how many gallons your heater can generate in an hour.
Comparing Types of Hot Water Heaters
It will become clear when comparing the different types of heaters, however, that natural gas and oil-fired units often have greater FHRs in relation to their tank size than electric heaters.
(Flames heat water far more quickly than heating devices do, for example.) When completing your worksheet, if you get a high FHR (for example, 100 gallons or more), you may need to build a second water heater.
Electric Heater
Electric water heaters are small, lightweight, and silent, and they have the best efficiency of any storage water heater available. However, because the cost of electricity is so high in most regions, fuel-fired heaters are less expensive to operate than electricity-powered heaters.” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAUEBAAAACwAAAAAAQABAAACAkQBADs” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAUEBAAAACwAAAAAAQABAA Illustration by the American Water Heater Company.
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However, because the cost of energy is so high in most regions, fuel-fired heaters are less expensive to operate than electricity-powered heaters.
Gas Heater
Lightweight and silent, electric water heaters have the best efficiency of any storage water heater on the market today. Electricity is expensive in most regions, but since it is so expensive, fuel-fired heaters are less expensive to operate than electric heaters. main image src=”data:image/gif;base64,AAAAAAQABAAACAkQBADs” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/gif;base64,AAAAAAQABAAACAkQBADs” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/ Illustration provided by American Water Heater Company.
Lightweight and silent, electric water heaters have the best efficiency of any storage water heater on the market today.
Oil Heater
Oil-fired water heaters heat water more quickly than electric or gas-fired systems. They are often heavier than other types of heaters because of the thick liner in the combustion chamber that protects the tank from the strong heat generated by the burner.” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAUEBAAAACwAAAAAAQABAAACAkQBADs” data-chorus-optimize-field=”main image” src=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAUEBAAAACwAAAAAAQABAA Bock Water Heaters Inc.
created this illustration.
created this illustration.
They are often heavier than other types of heaters because of the thick coating in the combustion chamber that protects the tank from the strong heat generated by the burner.
Performance Features of a Hot Water Tank
After selecting the size and efficiency rating of a heater, take into consideration the following other vital elements that will extend the heater’s lifetime and lower running expenses.
Tank material
After selecting the size and efficiency rating of a heater, take into consideration the following other vital elements that can enhance the heater’s lifetime and lower its running costs: 1.
Insulation
Insulation around a gas or oil-fired tank should be R-16 or higher, and R-22 or higher for electric tanks, regardless of whether the insulation is foam or fiberglass. Insulation helps to decrease standby losses, which are heat losses that occur while the device is not in use. Wrapping your tank with a fiberglass blanket will not make up for the lack of insulation that has been included into the tank.
Heat traps
Insulation around a gas or oil-fired tank should be R-16 or higher, and R-22 or higher for electric tanks, regardless of whether the insulation is made of foam or fiberglass. Standing losses, or heat that escapes from the unit while it is not in use, are reduced with insulation. Insufficient insulation built into the tank will not be compensated by covering it with a fiberglass blanket.
Making Your Selection
Before making a purchase, consider the manufacturer’s warranty and reputation as well as the price. For this information, there is no one reliable source to consult; nevertheless, speaking with a few trustworthy plumbers and plumbing supply businesses should assist you in narrowing your options. You may also be eligible for rebates or incentives issued by local utilities and municipalities in order to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient vehicles. (See state-by-state lists for further information.) Finally, be certain that the heater you choose will fit into the allotted area while still allowing for adequate space for service.
Alternatively, you may be able to purchase straight from a local home improvement store.
Maintenance
A water heater may live for up to 30 years, although the majority of them fail after 10 years, primarily due to negligence. Prevent your heater from dying prematurely by performing the following activities on a yearly basis, or by hiring a plumber or HVAC specialist to handle them for you.
- Drain the tank until the water is completely clean of debris. Remove as much sediment as possible from the tank at least twice a year. Corrosion of the pressure-relief valve should be checked. If it is rusted, have a plumber repair it as soon as possible. On a gas or oil-fired device, inspect the combustion chamber and flue vent for rust, corrosion, and blockages, and replace if necessary. Remove and inspect the heating elements of an electric heater, but turn off the electricity and drain the tank first. Anode rod should be removed and inspected (or rods). If the core wire of the rod is exposed for more than 6 inches or rods, it should be replaced. Maintain a water temperature between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. (Confirm using a thermometer placed under the faucet.) Corrosion is accelerated by higher temperatures.
Where to Find It
American Water Heater Company is a manufacturer of electric water heaters. www.americanwaterheater.com Johnson City, TN (800) 999-9515 www.americanwaterheater.com American Water Heater Company manufactures gas-fired water heaters. Bock Water Heaters Madison, WI 800-794-2491 www.bockwaterheaters.com Oil-fired: Bock Water Heaters Madison, WI 800-794-2491 The following people deserve our gratitude: Dave Sutula, Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Arlington, VA 703-525-7060
Selecting a New Water Heater
When purchasing a new water heater for your house, look for a system that will supply enough hot water for your family while also being energy efficient, allowing you to save money. Consider the many types of water heaters that are available, as well as the appropriate size and fuel source for your house.
Check out theEnergy Saver 101: Water Heating infographic to learn more about the many types of water heaters available and how to choose the most appropriate model for your household needs.
Types of Water Heaters
It’s a good idea to be familiar with the many types of water heaters that are available before making a purchase:
- Before you purchase a water heater, it is a good idea to become familiar with the numerous types of water heaters available:
Selection Criteria
When deciding on the appropriate type and model of water heater for your house, take the following factors into consideration:
- Type of fuel, availability, and pricing are all important considerations. The type of fuel or energy source you choose for water heating will have an impact on not just the annual operating costs of the water heater, but also the size and energy efficiency of the heater. More information about choosing fuel kinds and sizes may be found in the section below. It is necessary to have an appropriately sized water heater in order to offer your home with enough hot water while also maximizing efficiency. For further information on size, see the sections on the various types of water heaters (linked above). Efficiencies in energy use. Check the energy efficiency of a water heater before purchasing it to ensure that you save the most energy and money possible. More information on predicting energy efficiency and costs may be found on the pages dedicated to different types of water heaters (linked above). Preparing for the purchase of a water heater should include estimating the yearly running expenses as well as comparing those costs to the costs of alternative models that are less or more energy efficient. More information on estimating costs can be found on the pages dedicated to the various types of water heaters (linked above).
Also, look at ways to minimize your hot water consumption, such as washing your clothing in cold water instead of hot. Consider additional methods, such as drain-water heat recovery, to reduce the amount of money you spend on your water heating bill.
Fuel Types, Availability and Costs for Water Heating
Also, look for ways to minimize your hot water consumption, such as washing your clothing in cold water instead of hot water. Consider additional methods, such as drain-water heat recovery, to reduce the amount of money you spend on your water heating costs.
Exploring Water Heater Options by Fuel Type
The sort of fuel you use and its availability in your location may limit the number of water heaters you may choose from. Listed below is a list of water heater alternatives categorized by fuel type or energy source:
- When it comes to water heaters, the fuel type and availability in your location may limit your selection. According to the fuel or energy source, the following are some water heater options:
- Energy-efficient storage water heaters and indirect combined water and space heating systems can be powered by fuel oil, which is available in some parts of the United States.
- Geothermal energy is a renewable source of energy. People who will have or currently have an ageothermal heat pump system installed in their houses for space heating and cooling can take advantage of this program, which is available across the United States. For further details, please seeHeat Pump Water Heaters.
- Natural gas is a type of energy source. Fuel for traditional storage and demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters as well as combined water and space heating systems (which may include tankless coil and indirect water heaters) is readily available in many parts of the United States.
- Natural gas is a type of energy that is abundant. Fuel for traditional storage and demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters as well as combined water and space heating systems (which may include tankless coil and indirect water heaters) is available in many parts of the United States.
- Solar energy is a renewable source of energy. Solar water heaters are available across the United States, with the greatest availability in the Southwest.
Comparing Fuel Costs and Water Heater Types
You should evaluate fuel costs if you have access to more than one fuel type in your location, especially if you’re planning to build an entirely new home. Even if you’re replacing a water heater, you may discover that switching to a different fuel or energy source may save you more money in the long term. For those switching from one fuel type to another, there are additional costs to consider such as the installation of circuit breakers and the running of gas lines to the water heater and venting them outside.
It is also important to consider the type of water heater you buy because it will influence your water heating expenditures.
For example, an electric heat pump water heater is generally more energy efficient than an electric traditional storage water heater in terms of heating capacity and efficiency.
How to Buy the Best Water Heater for Your Home
Choosing the right water heater for your needs may be more difficult than it appears at first glance to be. The function of a water heater is straightforward, but there are a variety of considerations that must be taken into consideration. Because this is something you buy approximately once per decade and the number of possibilities available is always rising, you should find this summary to be worthwhile. Purchasing a water heater does not have to be a difficult task.
Do I Need to Replace a Water Heater?
If you’re asking that question, the likelihood is that the answer is yes. This is especially true if you don’t know how old the water heater in your home is at the moment. It takes an average of 8 to 12 years for a standard tank water heater, which is the most prevalent model in the United States, to reach its end of service life. The effectiveness of a water heater diminishes as it ages, so replacing an older one might be a good investment. Water heaters degrade over time as a result of normal use, but you can reduce the aging process.
- Sediment building occurs when minerals in water separate and settle to the bottom of the tank as a result of the heat.
- Sediment buildup can also cause the bottom heating elements in electric water heaters to fail, and it can produce hot spots in gas water heaters to stress the tank.
- The presence of rumbling or bursting sounds emanating from the tank indicates a large accumulation of silt.
- A corrosion-damaged anode rod — When different types of metals are linked in water, as is the case in water heater tanks, galvanic corrosion occurs, causing the more sensitive metals to corrode first.
- It’s possible that an anode rod may endure for four or five years, but it’s important to check for corrosion on a yearly basis.
- It is necessary to replace the rod if it has been “sacrificed” in a significant amount of coverage.
- The presence of rust in your hot water is a good indicator that the anode rod is not operating properly and that the tank has begun to corrode.
Even though higher water pressures are not unheard of, it is generally accepted that as a general rule of thumb, the higher the water pressure, the greater the strain on a home’s complete plumbing system.
Tanks are required to resist additional pressure when there is no expansion tank or when the temperature and pressure relief valves are broken or malfunctioning.
If you notice water pouring from the overflow pipe on a regular basis, it is possible that your water pressure is too high.
If a water heater is intended for a home with two people, it will be overworked if the residence has three or more people.
Corrosive fumes– Although not as prevalent as it should be, and sometimes disregarded, propane and natural gas water heaters require a sufficient amount of air to maintain combustion.
Tankless water heaters are not immune to sediment building; the same water conditions that cause sediment buildup in tank-style water heaters may cause mineral scale to accumulate in tankless water heaters.
This can also jam the outbound hot water pipe, resulting in decreased water pressure.
There are numerous apparent symptoms of difficulty with a water heater that you should check for, including the most obvious one – a lack of hot water when you need it.
Water heater servicing is especially crucial for older types, but all water heaters operate at their peak performance when they are kept in good condition. More on that in a moment, but first, let’s speak about what to look for when selecting the greatest water heater for your specific requirements.
It Starts with the Fuel: Natural Gas or Electric
Despite the fact that there are numerous more fuel possibilities than natural gas or electricity, including geothermal energy, propane and solar, we’ll stick with the most frequent ones for the time being. All residences have access to electricity, and many have access to natural gas, so there are a variety of alternatives for electric and natural gas water heaters to choose from. In the event that you currently have an electric water heater, continuing with electricity will reduce your installation expenses down significantly.
Even though natural gas water heaters are a bit more expensive than electric water heaters, the savings from using natural gas may be realized in approximately a year.
Comparing Water Heaters with Tanks and Tankless Water Heaters
It is evident from their titles that the most significant distinction between them is that one has a tank that retains water, while the other has not. However, you’ll need additional information to determine whether a tank or a tankless water heater is the best option for you.
Conventional Water Heater with Tank
Typically, a tank-style water heater stores between 30 and 50 gallons of water – some versions may hold even more – which is then kept until hot water is needed again.
- Compared to a tankless water heater, it is less expensive to acquire and install
- It is also available in a wide range of sizes. The insulated tank enables it to offer hot water in the event of a power loss, as well as an emergency water supply in the event of a water service interruption. Cons: The greatest tank-style water heaters have a lower life expectancy (8-12 years) than tankless water heaters (20 years or more)
- They are more expensive. Because of the necessity to heat and reheat a significant amount of water to ensure that it is constantly ready, it is more expensive to run. The amount of hot water accessible is restricted by the size of the storage tank
- There is a danger of water damage to the residence if the tank leaks or ruptures
Tankless Water Heater
An electric or gas burner heats water as it comes through a pipe, rather than storing it, and then distributes that heated water to where it is required in the residence.
- Advantages: According to the United States Department of Energy, a tankless water heater may be up to 34 percent more energy efficient than a traditional water heater with a tank, resulting in significant savings on utility expenses. Water heaters with a tankless design also have a longer life expectancy (more than 20 years), take up less space, and may offer hot water immediately (no waiting for the water to heat up). Purchase and installation costs are higher
- The flow rate (the amount of water that can be heated in a minute) on some models may not provide enough hot water during heavy usage, such as taking two showers at the same time, but this is not a problem if you purchase the appropriate size tankless heater
Ask How Much Hot Water You Need to Determine Best Water Heater Size
We should include the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act when discussing how much hot water you’ll require. This law, which was passed in 2015, calls for increased water heater efficiency. In order to provide improved heat retention, water heater tanks have grown in size without increasing the total amount of storage. As a result of the additional insulation, the overall dimensions has grown by at least two inches in height and two inches in width. If you’re replacing a tank-style water heater in a place that’s not particularly large, this is something to consider.
- A tank-style water heater is one that has a tank.
- It’s crucial to remember that a larger tank does not always equate to a greater FHR, since certain models with smaller tanks have a faster recovery rate than others.
- The EnergyGuide label, which is required by the Federal Trade Commission on all new storage tank water heaters, includes a rating for the first hour of operation.
- Gas water heaters heat water more quickly than electric water heaters, therefore if you pick an electric water heater, you may require a larger size.
- Tankless systems that run on gas are often more efficient than those that run on electricity, and they also heat the water more quickly.
- However, a gas-fueled tankless heater will meet the needs of any home with four or more people significantly more effectively than an electric system.
Calculating the peak hot-water demand in your house, just like you would with a tank-style water heater, is an excellent first step in determining the best tankless device for your needs. A certified plumber can also assist you in evaluating your alternatives.
Water Heater Maintenance to Optimize Performance and Longevity
Regardless of whatever water heater you choose, it is critical to do regular water heater maintenance to ensure that your system is working at peak performance levels. Correct maintenance also extends the life of your water heater, allowing you to receive more value out of your investment in the process. There are a few maintenance activities that a trained plumber can do on a water heater with a tank, but you may also be able to complete them on your own:
- The pressure relief valve should be checked because if there is an excessive buildup of pressure in the water heater tank, it may explode. When the pressure relief valve is functioning correctly, it automatically opens to alleviate the pressure. It may be tested by gently pulling up on the lever at the top of the pressure relief valve to check whether any water is discharged via the overflow tube. Clean the bottom of the tank: Sediment can accumulate on the bottom of a water heater’s tank over time. It lowers the efficiency of your water heater and increases the likelihood of it failing prematurely. Make certain that the water heater’s power source is turned off before commencing the cleansing operation.
Always remember that safety comes first when dealing with your water heater, so be sure you use gloves and safety goggles when performing any maintenance or repairs. If you have any doubts about how to do a maintenance operation, or if you believe that there is a problem with your water heater, call a certified plumber for assistance. When it comes to tankless water heaters, mineral accumulation may also be an issue. Using undiluted white vinegar to remove limescale, calcium carbonate, and other residue left behind by hard water is one method of doing so.
CONCLUSION
Everyone need a hot water heater, but not everyone’s demands can be met by the same type of water heater. That is why you should educate yourself in order to make the finest water heater selection possible, taking into account all of your possibilities. Once you know what is available, you may determine whether you want a gas or an electric unit, whether you want a tank or a tankless unit, and what size unit is best for you. When determining if a larger up-front investment is worth it in exchange for years of cheaper utility costs, consider how long you want to remain in your existing house.
When you consider that water heating accounts for around 18 percent of the average home’s energy use, investing in a more energy-efficient model may save you a significant amount of money on your electricity bills.
Should I Buy a New Water Heater from a Retailer or a Plumber?
Replacing the water heater in your house in the Cincinnati region is a significant undertaking. The majority of homeowners are concerned about whether or not it is acceptable to acquire equipment at retail, either online or through local home improvement stores, rather than hiring a plumber when purchasing a new water heater. Despite the fact that retailers offer low costs on equipment, are they the most advantageous option when shopping for a new water heater? Despite the fact that we are a plumbing firm, we are not prejudiced in our recommendation that you purchase your new water heater through your plumber.
These distinctions, on the other hand, have significant implications for your water heater installation process.
With the information provided here, you’ll be aware of what you’re getting yourself into no matter which route you choose.
Do not take chances when purchasing a new water heater; instead, look to ThomasGalbraith for exceptional equipment supported by expert installation. When you contact us now, you will receive a free quote for water heater installation!
The Retail Experience When Buying a New Water Heater
The large number of home improvement businesses and online sellers available today provides homeowners with a diverse selection of water heater systems from which to pick and compare. It appears that taking advantage of advertised discounts and cheap pricing would save you money on your water heater installation job, but is the low price really worth it?
Water Heater Quality
The units offered at a retail shop or on the internet are not always the same as those supplied by a local plumbing company. Low retail pricing are frequently feasible as a result of inferior product quality and the use of less durable components in the manufacturing process. Water heaters available for retail purchase may include plastic valves, aluminum anode rods, less insulation, and other components that are not of the same quality as those used in professional installations. The service life of such components is significantly reduced, and they are more susceptible to faults as a result of the materials used.
No Experts On-Hand
It takes specialist expertise to make the appropriate choice when purchasing a new water heater, something most typical homeowners do not possess. Retail staff, for the most part, do not share this sentiment. Retail personnel often do not have the in-depth understanding of plumbing systems and water heating equipment that a certified plumber does, so you will have no one to consult when making your choice of plumbing system or water heater. In most cases, the only information you have to rely on is the product information written on the display or available online for viewing.
Homes may require extra work in addition to just connecting the new unit in order to function properly, such as plumbing system modifications, rerouting plumbing or gas lines, and other related work.
Sales Only, No Service
A retailer’s primary interest is with obtaining your business by selling you a new unit. Retailers are no longer accessible to help you during the duration of your home improvement project once the transaction has been completed. When compared to a small local business, national chain stores and internet retail giants are less concerned with your happiness with their products. They will not assist you with any difficulties that you may have over the years that your water heater has been in operation for you.
So, what are you going to do with a brand-new water heater if you don’t know how to put it in?
What are your options? And, more importantly, how are you planning on transporting this massive, heavy object? Purchase a new water heater from an internet shop or large box store and you are on your own for installation and maintenance.
Buying a New Water Heater from a Local Plumbing Company
It is the exclusive concern of a shop to sell you a new product. Retailers are no longer accessible to assist you with your home improvement project after the transaction has been completed. When compared to a small local business, national chain stores and internet retail giants are less concerned with your happiness with their items. They will not assist you with any difficulties that you may have throughout the years that your water heater has been in operation for you to date. In-store installation services are not provided by retailers.
Then there’s the question of how you’re going to transport this massive, hefty object.
Plumbing Expertise
Licensed plumbers have years of expertise in the industry and have received extensive training in their field. If you need help determining which water heater types are best for your house, a local plumber can provide valuable insight into the features and possible energy savings of various models. As part of the process of purchasing a new water heater through a plumber, this specialist analyzes the hot water demand of your house to ensure that your new model will produce enough hot water to meet the demands of your entire family.
Quality Water Heating Equipment
Plumbers can acquire water heaters via wholesalers, distributors, or directly from the manufacturer, depending on their needs. Plumbers who work via these professional channels have access to higher-quality equipment that is made with more durable components than systems that are available through retail channels. Plumbers benefit from long-term relationships built over years of conducting business, which allows them to provide lower prices to customers and pass the savings on to them. They take care of placing orders and managing delivery so that you don’t have to.
InstallationFuture Care
After purchasing a new water heater from a plumbing firm, it is installed by a professional plumber who is licensed to do so. He or she completes all of the work required to put your new system into operation for the benefit of your family. This includes not only the installation of the unit itself, but also any extra work that is required to make room for it, such as installing gas lines or rerouting plumbing pipes if necessary. When you purchase a new water heater and have it installed by a plumber, you are also entitled to the labor warranty provided by the contractor.
When it comes to system repairs covered by your manufacturer’s warranty, your plumber can also assist you with this process.
Your pleasure is important to a local plumbing firm that cares about its customers. In the future, if your new water heater requires maintenance or repairs, you can rely on your plumber to provide you with dependable assistance.
Don’t Expect a Plumber to Install a Retail Unit
It appears to be an excellent idea at first glance to purchase an inexpensive replacement water heater from a shop and then hire an experienced plumber to do the installation. After all, you’d be saving money on the project by taking advantage of the retailer’s promotional pricing. Unfortunately, the vast majority of certified plumbers do not handle these sorts of water heater installation services. It is impossible for a plumber to guarantee the quality of a new water heater purchased outside of a working relationship, nor can the plumber ensure that the unit is the proper type for your home.
The majority of plumbing businesses will not install water heaters that have been purchased by the homeowner elsewhere.
Retailer Installation Woes
The last several years, prominent internet and home improvement merchants have begun to provide installation services for equipment purchased from their respective firms online and in stores. Because these businesses promote that the job is carried out by a licensed expert, many homeowners consider them to be a viable alternative. After all, a local plumbing business will not install a water heater purchased from a retailer, so why not take use of the retailer’s service instead? There are certain disadvantages to employing a service like this when purchasing a new water heater.
If you have concerns about a contractor’s credentials or reputation, there isn’t much you can do to resolve the situation.
This additional step between you and the plumber adds to the amount of time it takes to resolve the issue and increases the likelihood of communication failures.
Choose ThomasGalbraith for Water Heater Installation
When your home’s hot water supply is so critical to daily living, don’t take the chance of purchasing a new water heater from a shop. When it comes to purchasing a new water heater, ThomasGalbraith works with our customers to analyze their requirements and match them with the most appropriate new unit. In addition, our professional plumbers provide high-quality labor on each and every installation project. We promise that you will be satisfied, or else the project will not be completed. When your Cincinnati home is in need of a new water heater, call ThomasGalbraith to obtain a free quote for the equipment as well as the installation.
5 Things to Consider When Purchasing New Hot Water Heaters
Increasing water heater efficiency standards, new technology, and customers shifting away from tank-type water heaters have all contributed to some upheaval in the water heating sector during the last several years.
Many households are now perplexed as to which water heater to purchase as a result of this. For those who are shopping for a new hot water heater, the following five factors can assist you in making an informed purchase.
While new storage water heaters are more efficient, they have had to grow in size.
The abbreviation “NAECA 3” is certainly familiar to you if you’ve done any internet research at all. The National Appliance Energy Conservation Act, sometimes known as the NAECA, is a federal law that controls the energy usage of certain large household appliances. The most recent version, NAECA 3, went into effect in April 2015, and calls for better water heater energy efficiency ratings than previously. Heat loss from storage tanks has increased in recent years, requiring tanks to be better insulated (imagine same capacity with more insulation making the tank larger) and, in some cases, to be supplemented by other water heating options.
- You should anticipate that your future tank will expand in size by at least 2″ in height and 2″ in diameter if your old tank was acquired prior to the amendment of the NAECA 3 regulations.
- Additionally, typical tanks with capacities greater than 55 gallons are no longer available.
- Heat pump and hybrid tank water heaters have prices that are about twice as high as those of ordinary tank water heaters.
- As a result, if your present tank is greater than 55 gallons, you will need to consider a new solution before it becomes necessary to replace your hot water heater.
- In many circumstances, the most cost-effective long-term option is to replace the tank with a tankless hot water heater that is more energy efficient.
Should you heat waterusing propane, natural gas, or electricity?
Choosing a fuel source for your future water heater will be the first aspect you will examine while going through the many alternatives. In general, the expenses involved with heating water will be greater when propane is used rather than natural gas since propane is a more expensive fuel than natural gas. More popular fuel sources include electricity and natural gas, with the latter often being the least priced. Following the determination of your fuel source, the following stage is to determine whether you will heat your water with electricity or natural gas as a heat source.
- If you just have electricity at your residence, it is frequently less expensive to continue utilizing that fuel source for water heating rather than spending to bury a propane tank or install a new natural gas connection (if that is even a possibility).
- Always.
- An electrician can determine the service load for your home, which is normally marked on your main breaker panel or may be determined by a qualified professional in the field of electrical engineering.
- Several tankless electric water heater suppliers, including Heatworks, offer sizing materials available to assist you in determining how much electricity is required to satisfy your hot water demand.
- Heatworks and other tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only take electricity when hot water is being requested, so you won’t be wasting energy heating a tank for 20-24 hours per day when the average home consumes just over one hour of hot water per day.
- A larger breaker may be required to supply enough electricity for your home, depending on the service load.
- Here are some sizing materials provided by Heatworks.
- Tank-type natural gas hot water heaters require 12″ gas lines, whereas tankless natural gas hot water heaters require 3″ gas lines, according to the manufacturer.
- (When dealing with natural gas water heaters, appropriate ventilation is vitally necessary in addition to the gas line plumbing.
The cost of installing a tankless electric water heater is not much different from the cost of installing a traditional electric tank-type water heater.
Where is your hot water heater located?
In our last discussion, we mentioned that the NAECA 3 standards may make it impossible to replace an existing water heater with a new one of the same size as the present one. It has been brought to our attention that some people have attempted to retrofit their existing utility or water heater closet to accommodate a larger tank, only to discover that the tank would not fit in the existing space and that they would have to build out the space to accommodate the larger tank. If upgrading your present tank to a bigger NAECA 3 tank is not a possibility, consider reducing to a tankless unit to solve your problem without compromising the amount of hot water provided.
- It is possible that you may need to upgrade your wiring and/or breaker size in order to get sufficient hot water flow.
- Why?
- Alternatively, if you have a family of five, you may discover that you are running out of hot water much too quickly before everyone showers at night.
- To view an example of how the MODEL 3 Water Heater may be installed in your house or company, please visit this page.
What is your starting groundwater temperature?
When it comes to tankless electric water heaters, you must make certain that your property is adequately sized. This entails figuring out how much electricity is required to reach the specified temperature level. The temperature of the groundwater is significant since it serves as your starting point. A colder climate will require more energy to heat water to 104° F, which is the typical shower temperature. A warmer environment will require less energy to heat water to the same temperature as a cold one.
It is possible that measuring the temperature of water flowing from an outside faucet will not be precise, and this will result in undersizing since groundwater temperatures change between the winter and summer seasons.
This is due to the fact that Joe begins with groundwater that is 47° F while Jane begins with groundwater that is 75° F.
Keep in mind that there is no warmed reserve of water with a tankless system. The benefit of this is that you won’t run out of hot water, but you’ll need enough electricity so that you can heat the water to the correct output temperature on demand.
How much hot water do you use at any one given time?
The pace at which water flows from the hot water fixtures that have been placed is referred to as the flow rate. Tankless electric water heaters have a direct link between the flow rate of a fixture (demand), the amount of power provided to the tankless electric water heater, and the temperature of the hot water that is produced at the end of the heating cycle. The temperature decreases in direct proportion to the flow rate (if power in remains constant). Significant-flow fixtures, such as rain shower heads and spa tubs, place a high demand on tankless units, which many of them are unable to meet.
As a result of this, as well as several other environmental measures, it is frequently suggested to utilize low flow fixtures wherever feasible.
Purchasing a hot water heater is a significant investment, and there is much more to it than simply paying the retail price.
Make use of the size resources available to you and consult with an associate at your local appliance store for assistance.
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