What Is The Best Water Heater To Buy

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.

Best Water Heaters Of February 2022

Despite the fact that both natural gas and electric water heaters have their own set of pros and disadvantages, any comparison is complicated by an array of other considerations. Because electric water heaters are far more energy efficient and do not directly rely on fossil fuels to function, they are the most environmentally friendly alternative if environmental sustainability is important to you. The cost of operating an electric water heater can be significantly greater than the cost of operating a natural gas water heater.

Electric water heaters, particularly those that are Energy Star certified, can qualify for federal and even state tax credits, which can result in significant savings.

Tank vs. Tankless

Despite the fact that both natural gas and electric water heaters have their own set of pros and disadvantages, any comparison is complicated by an array of other elements. Because electric water heaters are far more energy efficient and do not directly rely on fossil fuels to function, they are the most environmentally friendly choice if environmental sustainability is important to you. When compared to a natural gas water heater, the cost of operating an electric water heater might be significantly greater in some cases.

When you purchase an electric water heater, especially one that is Energy Star Certified, you may be eligible for federal and even state tax credits, which might result in significant savings for you.

Initially, these discounts may not seem like much, but do a thorough assessment before purchasing—you could be surprised.

Tank Capacity and First Hour Rating

The greatest hot water heater for your home will also depend on the tank capacity that is appropriate for your family’s requirements. Depending on the amount of people living in your home, this is a simple calculation to make:

• One to two persons require 20 to 35 gallons of water
• Two to four people require 35 to 50 gallons of water. Three to five persons use 50 to 60 gallons of water. Five or more persons — 60 gallons or more (add 10 gallons for each additional person)

A hot water heater’s first hour rating (FHR) is also important to examine. This rating tells you how much hot water the tank can generate in an hour when it is fully heated. The FHR should be able to provide enough hot water to meet or surpass the amount of gallons required for any and all simultaneous activities that your household may engage in. A few estimations of hot water use will assist you in determining the most appropriate FHR for your home:

• Bathing or bathing consumes 20 gallons
• Washing dishes (by hand) consumes six gallons
• Running the dishwasher consumes 14 gallons
• Using the washing machine consumes 30 gallons

Ease of Use

Bathing or bathing requires 20 gallons; washing dishes (by hand) requires six gallons; running the dishwasher requires 14 gallons; running the washing machine requires 30 gallons; and

9 Best Water Heaters

Every editorial product is chosen on its own merits, while we may be compensated or earn an affiliate commission if you purchase something after clicking on one of our affiliate links. As of the time of writing, the ratings and pricing are correct, and all goods are in stock. 1/10 Family Handyman, courtesy of homedepot.com and lowes.com, respectively

What Is a Water Heater?

Even though we may be rewarded or earn an affiliate commission if you purchase something after clicking on one of our links, every editorial product is chosen independently. When this article was published, the ratings and pricing were accurate, and all goods were in stock. 1/10 through homedepot.com, via lowes.com, via familyhandyman

• Purchase price, installation, and any additional work, such as running vent lines or upgrading your electrical service, are all included in the price. Fuel type: This is a matter of personal taste. Almost usually, the simplest and most cheap alternative is to continue using the same type of fuel that your current heater operates on. You may have different demands than others, but a 40-gallon tank typically gives enough hot water for two people, and a 50-gallon tank may accommodate four or five people in an average-sized home. Get the largest tank you can afford for a group of six or more people. Tankless vs. traditional: Which is better? Tankless water heaters heat the water as it goes through its coils, resulting in an infinite supply of hot water to be used. The disadvantages are that the cost and installation fees are greater. Energy efficiency: Although better-efficiency units have a higher initial cost, the energy savings will often more than offset the cost of the unit within a few years. Tankless systems are likewise more energy efficient, but because of their greater cost, they require a longer “break-even” period to be profitable. Tank construction: Tank heaters can become clogged with silt, which reduces their energy efficiency and shortens their service life significantly. You may manually empty them to lessen this danger, or you can search for versions that include self-cleaning components and ceramic-lined tanks to reduce this risk.

Home Depot (2/10

Best Tankless Water Heater (Electric)

Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters only create heat when needed. Saving money on your energy account by not maintaining a tank of hot water at the ready will result in big savings on your bill. Units such as theRheem Performance Tankless Electric Water Heater can deliver around seven gallons of hot water per minute, meeting the demands of the entire household. However, in order to generate that much heat, you’ll need to dedicate four 40-amp double-pole breakers to this heater, which will take up a large amount of room in the electrical breaker box.

In addition to the temperature being displayed on the unit’s face via an easy-to-read LCD display, the single dial on the unit’s face permits changes in one-degree increments.

Now is the time to shop3/10 via lowes.com

Best Tankless Water Heater (Gas)

Price and performance are excellently balanced in the A.O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heaters by the manufacturer. Although gas tankless units have a higher initial purchase price than electric tankless units, the reduced running expenses often offset the higher purchase price throughout the unit’s lifetime. A single tank of water from this manufacturer delivers enough hot water to run three showers at the same time. Additionally, it is Energy Star certified, indicating that it is one of the most energy-efficient machines on the market.

It will require a vent line due to the fact that it is gas-fueled. If you’re intending on doing the installation yourself, be sure you follow all applicable rules and obtain any necessary permits. Now is the time to shop4/10 via homedepot.com

Best Traditional Tank Water Heater (Electric)

Price and performance are excellently balanced in the A.O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heaters from A.O. Smith. However, the reduced running expenses of gas tankless units often outweigh the higher initial purchase price of electric tankless units throughout the unit’s lifetime. Using this model, you can operate three showers at the same time without running out of hot water. Additionally, it is Energy Star certified, indicating that it is one of the most energy-efficient devices on the market at the time of purchase.

In the event that you decide to do the installation yourself, be certain that you follow all applicable rules and obtain all necessary permits.

Best Traditional Tank Water Heater (Gas)

Price and performance are well balanced in the A.O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heaters. Although gas tankless units have a higher initial purchase price than electric tankless units, the reduced running expenses often offset the higher initial purchase price throughout the unit’s lifetime. This model from can supply enough hot water to run three showers at the same time. Additionally, it is Energy Star certified, indicating that it is one of the most energy-efficient machines available.

If you intend to do the installation yourself, make certain that you follow all applicable codes and obtain any necessary permits.

Best Budget-Friendly Water Heater (Electric)

Astonishingly affordable at $419, theRheem Performance 40-Gallon Electric Water Heateris a great addition to any home. Smaller families or houses with an offset usage pattern will benefit from the 40-gallon tank, which requires less energy to maintain heated between uses than a larger tank would. It simply requires a 25-amp electrical breaker, which means it shouldn’t necessitate a major electrical makeover to be put in place. If you’re looking to replace an existing electric water heater, it’s likely that you won’t find a better deal anywhere else.

Best Environmentally Friendly Water Heater (Electric)

Take into consideration the A.O. Smith Signature 900 Hybrid Water Heater, which is designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible. In accordance with the manufacturer, this Energy Star-certified model saves an average home with three to four users more than $300 a year in energy bills. As part of its hybrid design, it includes a heat pump, which is similar to the one you may already have installed in your house for heating and cooling, to transport heat from the surrounding air into the water tank.

It is covered by a 10-year limited warranty and may be eligible for further rebates or tax credits depending on your situation.

Best Off-Grid Water Heater

Yes, some households choose to live off-grid by installing a solar array. However, if you want to keep things as simple as possible, a Wood-Fired Water Heater is a good option. This Amish-built water heater is constructed of 3/16-inch welded steel, has a capacity of 15 gallons, and is efficient enough to keep heating new water as it circulates through the tank during operation. This indicates it has the capability of supplying water for back-to-back showers. We appreciate the fact that it is not depending on natural gas or power.

There has been no pressure testing. If not utilized or placed properly, it has the potential to explode with life-threatening power.” This is an excellent reminder of why it is critical to exercise caution while installing any type of water heater. Visit homedepot.com to place your order right now!

Best Water Heater for a Big Family (Gas)

If you have six or more people living in your home, you will want a large amount of hot water for bathing and laundry. If running out of water is your primary issue, you’re better off going tankless to provide “endless” hot water, or purchasing a heater with the largest tank possible. The tank may possibly be the most cost-effective of the three choices considered. This is due to the fact that big families constantly drain a water heater tank, resulting in the heater not expending energy to maintain the temperature of an empty tank.

You should select the Rheem Performance 75-Gallon Gas Water Heater if you believe that a huge tank is the best option for you.

Now is the time to shop at homedepot.com.

Best Water Heater for a Small Household (Electric)

A tankless water heater is frequently the best option for small families with only one or two people living in them. The Rheem Performance Self-Modulating Water Heater delivers enough hot water for two people to take showers at the same time without running out of hot water. Many households will only use it once or twice a day, after which it will remain idle, saving you money every time it does not need to heat up a reservoir tank of water, as is the case for many businesses. Two 40-amp circuit breakers are required.

Now is the time to shop.

Best Water Heater Reviews 2021

It is possible to purchase a variety of various water heaters on the market. It’s not simple to figure out how to choose the greatest water heater for your needs. It is necessary to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each type and technology. In addition, when you factor in the availability of local and national subsidies for energy savings, making the choice to replace a water heater with a newer or alternative technology becomes a little more complicated than just picking between electric and gas.

However, as we’ll demonstrate, this isn’t always the greatest option when it comes to water heaters.

We also make particular product and line recommendations based on our expertise and experience with the items, their technology, their manufacturers, their reputations, and their warranties.

Best Water Heaters by Type

It is possible to purchase a variety of various water heaters on the market nowadays. The process of determining which water heater is ideal for your house is not straightforward. It is necessary to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each form of technology and type of computer. When you combine this with the availability of local and national subsidies for energy savings, making the decision to replace a water heater with a newer or alternative technology becomes a little more complicated than just picking between electric and natural gas heating.

Although this is often the most cost-effective option, as we will demonstrate, it is not always the best.

On the basis of our expertise and knowledge of product technology, manufacturers, reputations, and warranties, we also make particular product and line recommendations to our clients and prospective clients.

Best Electric Water Heater (Tank Style)

Electric tank water heaters from Rheem Performance are available in a variety of capacities ranging from 20 to 60 gallons. They have a uniform energy factor (UEF) of.92 –.93 and don’t overcomplicate things with fancy electronics or “Smart” systems, which may be expensive. This also helps to keep the costs low. A standard 50-gallon tank might cost as little as $409. That 50-gallon tank produces 61 gallons of hot water in the first hour of operation, on average. In addition, you’ll get a 6-year limited warranty.

Some of these features are WiFi capabilities and app control, which allow you to do more with your water heater.

Best Gas Water Heater (Tank Style)

The A. O. Smith Signature 50-gallon tall model, in our opinion, is the greatest gas water heater available. It performs exceptionally well in houses with five or more people and produces 50,000 BTUs. It has a remarkable first-hour hot water delivery capacity of 89 gallons and is equipped with an electronic gas valve that allows for exact temperature adjustment. Aside from that, the control operates without the requirement for an external power source. A modest LED status indicator for diagnostics reporting is included with the AO Smith Signature 50-gallon water heater, which is not a smart water heater by any means.

The ceramic fused tank shield, which inhibits corrosion, as well as the self-cleaning dip tube, which decreases silt build-up, are two features that we really enjoy.

Naturally, A.O.

There are also a variety of sizes available in both short and tall combinations.

Best Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater

The hybrid electric heat pump style of water heaters might be considered the “Cadillac” of water heaters. Designed to be both clever and efficient, the A. O. Smith Signature Premier Electric Water Heater with Hybrid Heat Pump is a great addition to any home. Because of the hybrid heat pump architecture, it is four times more efficient than even the most efficient electric water heater. It saves enough money that, according to the calculations, it should be able to pay for itself in as little as 2-3 years.

This water heater does not include built-in WiFi.

That’s something we appreciate in a water heater since it means there’s less to break and worry about. For your piece of mind, this water heater is backed by a 10-year limited manufacturer’s guarantee.

Best Gas Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters manufactured by Rinnai have been a favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. When it comes to tankless water heaters, we prefer indoor units wherever feasible, and I aim to promote gas versions with at least 7.5 GPM. That will more than plenty for a family of 4-5, even if you have laundry in the washing and a dishwasher or shower going at the same time. That this system is so simple, paired with an outstanding 10-year manufacturing guarantee on the heat exchanger, is something we really like about it.

Along with the 120-month heat exchanger guarantee, you will receive 12 months of labor coverage and 60 months of parts coverage.

Best Electric Tankless Water Heater

When it comes to electric tankless water heaters, we tend to opt for smaller units that are meant to be used as point-of-use solutions for tiny spaces. When it comes to the bathroom at our Pro Tool Reviews Shop, we utilize an EcoSmart ECO 11 unit from the manufacturer. Depending on the temperature of the incoming water, we may achieve between 1.3 and 3.1 GPM with this system. Due to the fact that we reside in Florida, the flow tends to be on the higher end of the range. Electric tankless water heaters for the entire house are available, but they require a number of high-current breakers to operate properly.

Over the years, newer electric tank heaters have gotten so much more energy efficient that electric tankless water heaters are no longer necessarily the most cost-effective or logistically feasible aftermarket replacement option.

Water pressure is excellent in the smallest units, which are ideal for providing a single bathroom sink or breakroom faucet.

One year guarantee on exchangers and electronics is provided on point of use equipment by this company.

Repairing and Replacing Water Heaters – Incentives

If your hot water heater fails, you would normally just replace it with a gas or electric one that is the same size and kind (usually conventional). However, because of the ongoing government incentives, homeowners who replace their hot water heaters may be eligible for Energy Star rebates. The refund may only be applied on an existing house that serves as your primary residence. It operates in the following ways:

• If you purchase a qualified gas, oil, or propane water heater, you will be eligible for a tax credit of $300. This tankless system must have an Energy Factor of at least 0.82 and a thermal efficiency of at least 90% in order to function properly. Currently, all tankless water heaters that comply with Energy Star requirements qualify. If you purchase a qualified electric heat pump water heater, you will be eligible for a tax credit of $300. Most ENERGY STAR-certified water heaters fulfill the standards for this tax credit, and the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) must be equal to or greater than 2.2.

Pros and Cons of Electric Tank Water Heaters

Using a huge insulated tank to hold the water, tank water heaters heat the water to provide hot water. These devices have an usual capacity of 40-50 gallons. You may also discover versions that are meant for larger houses and can heat up to 80 gallons of water or even more every hour of operation. Commercial units have capacities of up to 120 gallons or more. Electric water heaters utilize one or more heating elements to heat the water in the tank, and they are equipped with a thermostat to regulate the temperature of the water.

We propose that even the greatest electric water heaters be used in conjunction with an external timer in order to save money. This is not true for versions equipped with electronic controls, which allow programming of the thermostat either on the device itself or through an app on a smartphone.

• Advantages:Easy to replace, economical when compared to alternatives, and suitable for both warm and cold weather conditions. Cons: Inefficient as compared to tankless (particularly when using gas), prone to intermittent failure, and with a limited supply of hot water.

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Cons: Easy to replace, affordable when compared to alternatives, and suitable for use in either warm or cold areas. Compared to tankless systems (particularly gas), they are frequently inefficient, are prone to occasional failure, and provide a limited supply of hot water.

• Pros: It is energy efficient, offers rebates, and never runs out of hot water. It is expensive, requiring specific installation and might take longer to heat water in the most remote areas of a home.

Should You Buy a Heat Pump Water Heater

Water heating systems that extract heat from the surrounding air to heat water in a tank are a less well-known form of water heating system. The odd manner it operates means it is only ideal for use in warmer areas and must be installed in a bigger place such as a utility room, garage, shop, or basement due to the nature of its operation. They may be up to three times more efficient than an electric water heater, and they can also chill and dehumidify the air in the room, making them particularly attractive in hotter areas where humidity is a problem.

In addition to heating water more rapidly and in larger volume than ordinary electric water heaters, these hybrid versions are also more compact in size.

• Pros: It is energy efficient, it cools the room during hot weather, it heats up quickly, and it produces more volume for the same size tank. Cons: It is expensive, it is not ideal for colder areas, it takes more room, and it has a restricted hot water supply.

Considering a Solar Water Heater?

Do you want to be as energy efficient as possible to the extreme? Why not use the sun to heat your water instead of a boiler? Solar water heaters can be used to heat the water in a home or to just heat water for a swimming pool. They can operate in a number of different ways. In the event of cloudy days or other unforeseen circumstances, these systems rely on a backup system (either tankless or conventional) to manage hot water production when the solar system is unable to provide sufficient heat.

When using a passive system, the tank is actually stored on the roof or the ground (as part of a “batch collector”), where it is directly heated by the sun.

• Pros: Makes you feel good about yourself for being environmentally conscious and having a low operating cost
• Costly, not as ideal for colder locations, involves extensive installation, and has a restricted supply of hot water.

Check for Additional Rebates

Check with your local gas and electric companies as well to see if there are any further incentives available. Consider this: If you replace a traditional gas water heater with a tankless system, your local gas supplier may offer you $450 in rebates and incentives. Considering the foregoing, your savings may look somewhat like this:

• A total of $450 is obtained by subtracting $1,200 (the cost of the tankless water heater) from $300 (the tax credit) and $450 (the local rebate).

Because of the low cost, it’s nearly absurd to not replace and improve your hot water heater with one that is more energy efficient. Your final selection will be based on your own preferences as well as the requirements of your house and water heating requirements. Before making a final decision, carefully analyze all of your alternatives and all of the possible tax savings that are available to you.

Best water heaters 2022

Because of the low cost, it’s nearly absurd to not replace and upgrade your hot water heater with a more energy-efficient one.

Your final selection will be based on your own preferences as well as the demands of your house and water heating system requirements. Before making a final decision, carefully analyze all of your alternatives and all of the possible tax savings that may be available.

1. Rheem Gladiator Water Heater: Best overall water heater

(Photo courtesy of Home Depot.)

The Rheem water heater is a durable and reliable water heater that has a fantastic 12-year warranty.

Yes, it is Energy Star certified. Warranty: 12 years from the date of purchase

Reasons to buy

Is your home energy-efficient? 12 years of warranty

Reasons to avoid

-It is not recommended for households with more than 4 occupants. In terms of water heaters, Rheem is an excellent, mid-level brand that isn’t too pricey. Its reputation as a manufacturer of long-lasting, dependable water heaters makes it an excellent choice for most households. The firm provides water heaters in a variety of types, including gas, electric, tankless, solar, and hybrid. In order to create our guide, we looked at the Rheem Gladiator water heater as a starting point. With an Energy Star rating and a 12-year guarantee, this gas water heater is an excellent choice.

Additionally, if there is a leak or other issues, this EcoNet system may give you notifications.

You won’t have to worry about replacing or cleaning a filter, though, because this machine is designed to work without one entirely.

2. Westinghouse Lifetime Electric Water Heater: Best water heater warranty

In households with more than 4 occupants, this is not an option. In terms of water heaters, Rheem is an excellent, mid-level brand that is not too expensive. Water heaters manufactured by this company are known for being robust and dependable, making them an excellent choice for most households. Water heater types are available in a variety of styles, including gas, electric, tankless, solar, and hybrid. In order to create our guide, we used the Rheem Gladiator water heater as a starting point of reference.

The EcoNet Wi-Fi Kit and smartphone app that comes with it allow you to control and monitor it.

When a buildup of potentially flammable vapor occurs, the gadget immediately shuts down to safeguard you.

Set to last a lifetime, the Westinghouse Electric Water Heater will save you money in the long run.

The product is not Energy Star certified and does not have a warranty.

Reasons to buy

+It is designed to last a lifetime+ Tank with a capacity of 80 gallons

Reasons to avoid

-Expensive As a result of its large 80-gallon tank, the Westinghouse Electric Light Duty Water Heater is an excellent choice for families and anyone who want a large amount of hot water quickly. Other noteworthy aspects of this water heater include the tank’s stainless steel construction, which makes it far lighter than other water heaters. The stainless steel also helps to reduce the accumulation of scale within, which means it should last far longer. While this water heater has a high price tag of over $1,000, it comes with a lifetime warranty that makes it an excellent investment.

The thermostat is simply adjustable, allowing you to quickly regulate the temperature of the water in the tank to ensure that it is just suitable for you and your requirements.

• Check out our evaluation of the Westinghouse Electric Light Duty Water Heater.

3. Rheem Performance Platinum Smart Electric Water Heater: Best electric water heater

(Photo courtesy of Home Depot.)

A smart water heater with a 10-year warranty, the Rheem Performance Water Heater is Energy Star rated.

Yes, it is Energy Star certified. Warranty is for ten years.

Reasons to buy

+Long warranty+Energy efficiency+Intelligent control system

Reasons to avoid

-Heavy-Expensive The Rheem Performance Platinum Smart Electric Water Heater comes out on top as the best electric water heater in our comparison guide, according to our findings. This water heater is both quiet and energy efficient, and it comes with a 10-year warranty. With its hybrid heat pump, it is more energy efficient than ordinary electric heaters on the market today. Due to the fact that it is a smart water heater, the Rheem Performance heater sends notifications to your phone if something isn’t quite right or if any water leaks are discovered.

Additionally, this water heater offers useful smart features such as the option to switch it into High Demand mode for plenty of hot water and a Vacation Mode for when you are away.

• Read our Rheem Performance Platinum Smart Electric Water Heater review to learn more about this product.

4. A.O Smith Signature Gas Water Heater: Best gas water heater

(Image courtesy of Lowe’s)

The A.O Smith Gas Water Heater is a great budget option and is great for family homes.

There is no Energy Star rating, and the warranty is only six years.

Reasons to buy

+Good value for money+Perfect for families

Reasons to avoid

-A shorter warranty period The A.O Smith Signature Gas Water Heater is the most affordable option in our guide to big water heaters, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be shortchanged in terms of performance. Sure, it lacks some of the more advanced features found in some of the other models, but for the price, this water heater is excellent for heating enough water for a household. The features that it does have have been thoughtfully designed. The use of a push button ignition makes the starter procedure quick and simple, and the LED status indication makes it easy to keep track of things if something goes wrong.

Smith is a well-known brand that provides a solid and dependable water heater without charging an exorbitant price.

• The warranty has been reduced in duration. However, just because the A.O Smith Signature Gas Water Heater is the most affordable option in our guide to big water heaters, doesn’t mean you should save on quality. Sure, it lacks some of the advanced features found in some of the other models, but for the price, this water heater is excellent for heating enough water for a household. That is to say, the features that are present have been thoughtfully designed. If something goes wrong, you’ll be able to keep track of it thanks to the push-button ignition and the LED status indicator on the dashboard. A.O. Smith is a well-known brand that provides a solid and dependable water heater without charging an exorbitant fee for the product.

5. Bosch Tronic 3000 T ES4 Water Heater: Best point-of-use water heater

(Photo courtesy of Home Depot.)

A fantastic and compact water heater that is designed for point-of-use plug in with ease.

Featured image courtesy of The Home Depot

Reasons to buy

+Easy to put together+ Fits beneath sinks and other similar applications Heats water in a short period of time

Reasons to avoid

Installing the program is simple. Compatible with sinks+ Easily and efficiently heats water.

• See our Bosch Tronic 3000 Mini-Tank Electric Water Heater review for more information.

Buying a water heater: efficiency ratings

Although the efficiency criteria for gas and electric water heaters differ, both rely on the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating system, with higher-scoring machines producing more hot water while consuming less electricity. When applying for an Energy Star certification, electric water heaters with tanks up to 55 gallons must have a UEF of at least 2 in order to be eligible. A UEF of 0.64 or 0.68, depending on how much water is used during the day, is all that is required for gas water heaters with tanks up to 55 gallons of storage capacity.

Tanks larger than 55 gallons require considerably more stringent requirements. Choosing a water heater that is close to or above the Energy Star criteria will save you money on your utility bills, however the most energy-efficient heaters are typically the most expensive.

Water heater warranties

It’s possible that you’ll be tempted to make a selection only on the basis of features and pricing while searching around for a water heater. However, the value of a solid warranty should not be underestimated, because in a crisis, you’ll want to be confident that you’ll be able to get your house back up and running as quickly as possible. To avoid being without hot water for an extended period of time, it’s important to get a model that comes with an excellent warranty.

There is a catch, however, in that labor guarantees are often only valid for one calendar year.

How much do water heaters cost?

The cost of installing a new water heater in your house will typically range between $700 and $2,000 on average. Electric water heaters are typically priced between $300 and $700, not including installation. Gas water heaters, on the other hand, range in price from $400 to $1,000. The cost of a water heater, on the other hand, is heavily influenced by the brand, tank size, and efficiency rating of the heater. However, despite the fact that it may be tempting to open the installation instructions and attempt to install your new water heater on your own, the majority of homeowners lack the requisite skills and expertise.

1. In addition, several manufacturers only sell their water heaters through professional installation.
2. Since the most majority of plumbers are qualified and certified professionals with years of important expertise, it is well worth the extra expense to have them install your water heater.
3. Labor, supplies, and the removal of the water heater are all included in the installation price.
4. For example, if you want to change the kind of water heater in your house, you should expect to pay up to $1,500 (and sometimes much more) to upgrade your home’s electrical or natural gas connections to the required standards.

Permitsinspections

Before you can install a water heater in your house, most towns and counties need you to get a permit. If necessary, the certified plumber you choose can secure the appropriate permissions as part of the installation process, depending on your location. To be sure, you should check with them or your local building department to find out what permits are required in your particular site before moving forward. This will also assist you in determining if you are responsible for obtaining the permit or whether the contractor will handle it.

Upon completion of the installation, a representative from the organization that granted the permit will check the water heater to ensure that it conforms with the applicable building codes.

Gas vs electric water heaters: which is right for you?

A new water heater for your house isn’t inexpensive, which is why you’re probably spending some time thinking about how you’re going to power the device. The first thing to understand is that electric heaters are the most environmentally friendly alternative available, and choosing one of them will mean that you are making a more environmentally friendly choice for the globe. The use of electric water heaters is also more energy efficient, albeit the cost of electricity raises the cost of operation over that of gas-powered water heaters.

Lifetime energy costs

The Federal Energy Management Program has developed a calculator that will allow you to estimate the yearly and lifetime energy expenditures of your new electric or gas water heater (FEMP). Also included is a comparison of your predictions to those of basic models, FEMP guidelines, and the most efficient models currently available in the market. This calculator can assist you in determining if the additional cost of a more energy-efficient model is worth it over the course of its useful life.

How many years does a hot water heater last?

When you invest a significant amount of money all at once on a hot water heater, the issue of lifespan becomes a worry. Tank style water heaters, on the other hand, have a lifespan of eight to twelve years on average – depending on whether or not you have hard water in your location and whether or not you undertake regular maintenance to maintain the heater functioning at optimal performance. According to our research and consultations with plumbing specialists, you can anticipate a new water heater to last around ten years after installation.

In addition, we discovered that many plumbing professionals recommend installing a hot water filter to help limit the amount of silt and minerals that enter your water heater and cause it to malfunction.

When should you replace your water heater?

To determine that your water heater isn’t operating correctly, you don’t have to be a professional plumber. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of a malfunctioning water heater can save you from losing your hot water completely.

• Keep an eye out for any changes in the quality of your hot water, such as brown water or metallic tastes, which might signal that your storage tank is rusting on the inside. if you notice a rapid drop in the amount of hot water your heater delivers, or if the water never gets totally hot, it might be the consequence of an inefficient, worn-out or broken heating element. A reduction in the volume of water flowing through the faucets might signal that a pipe has been clogged with silt, hard water deposits, or another material. If the sound of your water heater changes as it is heating water, especially if you hear popping and cracking, this might indicate a problem. If you notice water leaking directly from the water heater, it is likely that something has to be tightened. Given that the typical lifespan of a water heater is around 10 years, any water heater that is more than 10 to 15 years old should be considered for replacement, even if it is still in good working order.

Water heater safety

Your water heater, like any other important household item, requires regular maintenance and care in order to perform its functions properly. Homeowners are advised to examine the parts of their water heater at least once a year, according to insurance firms. The ventilation system, the pilot light, and the temperature or release valve are all examples of such components. Instructions for using your heater should be included in the handbook you got from the manufacturer when you made your purchase.

If you are unable to find the information you want in the handbook and you need to inspect the state of your heater, you can always contact a local plumber for expert guidance and assistance.

He not only writes about smart homes and home security and safety, but he also writes about other home technology goods such as HVAC systems, garage door openers, and other such items. In his leisure time, he likes doing home improvement projects, writing, and hiking.

The Best Electric Water Heater — February 2022 Reviews

Replacing your hot water heater may be a tough decision to make, and it can be even more difficult to prepare for. In reality, as we shown in thishot water heaterbuyer’s guide, taking the effort to get it right the first time may save you hundreds of dollars every year. The following is a detailed analysis of the finest electric water heaters currently available on the market, which was compiled after hundreds of hours of research and in-home testing by the author. Our objective is to assist you in finding the most appropriate electric hot water heater for your needs.

We concentrated on the most popular and best-selling brands and models, and we reviewed the Rheem electric water heater, the Bradford White electric water heater, and the AO Smith electric water heater, among other types.

Best 40 gallon electric water heater

Every 50 gallon tank on the market was evaluated, and our top pick is theRheem Performance 40 Gal. Electric Tank Water Heater, which is available for purchase online.

What we like

Price—As you can see in the chart below, it is $20 less expensive than the equivalent AO Smith model and $344 less expensive than the Bradford White model. Features— Maintenance is easy—According to Brandon Baril, a plumber in San Diego, most of the Rheem heaters he fixes require only a $9 part due to the simple smart controller design of the Rheem heaters he repairs. Repairing your hot water heater will be less difficult, which will result in you replacing it less frequently and saving money.

This means that you can easily replace it or install a second one, which can increase the life expectancy of your water heater by as much as double.

40 gallon electric water heater prices

The following table lists the expenses of a 40-gallon electric water heater, as well as its energy efficiency ratings, yearly running costs, and first-gallon efficiency (FHRs). The fact that electric water heater prices have increased since the outbreak began, owing to supply chain issues and rising steel costs, should not be overlooked. Between July 2020 and January 2022, the average price of the water heaters tracked by us increased by around 33% on average.

Product	Price	Efficiency	Annual Cost	FHR
AO Smith 40 Gallon Electric Water	$499	.92	$424	53 gallons
Bradford White 40 Gallon Electric Water Heater	$823	.95	$405	56 gallons
Rheem 40 Gallon Electric Water Heater	$479	.93	$419	54 gallons

The costs shown in the table above are for the most basic versions offered by Rheem, AO Smith, and Bradford White. However, there are a few additional elements that will influence the price:

Which height is best for your home?

The height of the water heater is an important issue to take into consideration.

There are three distinct height models offered by the majority of water heater manufacturers:

• Tall electric water heaters measure 60 inches in height
• Medium electric water heaters measure 48 inches in height
• And small electric water heaters measure 32 inches in height.

The price disparities will vary depending on the manufacturer. However, in the instance of the Rheem Performance model that we discussed previously, the following is the cost difference between the two models: The price of a tall Rheem 40 gal. electric water heater is $479. The price of a medium Rheem 40 gal. electric water heater is $439. Price for a Rheem 40 gallon electric water heater is $529. As you can see, there isn’t a significant difference in pricing between the two options. As a result, you’ll want to choose the choice that best complements your living space.

Which warranty length is best for you?

The term of the warranty is the aspect that has the greatest impact on the pricing. Most manufacturers provide three different warranty lengths: six, nine, and twelve years. As an example, let’s look at how the pricing differ based on the Rheem water heater product warranty: The Rheem Performance 40 Gal. Medium – 6 Year is available for $439. $619 for a Rheem Performance Plus 40 Gal. Medium–9 Year warranty. 739 dollars for a Rheem Gladiator 40 gal. medium 12 year tank. In this example, the 9 year warranty costs $180 more than the 6 year warranty, as you can see.

However, after you reach the 12-year warranty threshold, you will also receive extra features like as an automatic shut-off valve and leak detection.

There is an excellent post on the importance of hot water heater warranties and alternatives on This Old House.

Best 50 gallon electric water heater

The length of the warranty will have the greatest impact on the pricing. There are three warranty choices available from the majority of manufacturers: six, nine, and twelve year guarantees. Let’s take a look at how pricing differ based on the Rheem water heater product warranty: The Rheem Performance 40 Gal. Medium – 6 Year is priced at $439. 40 Gal. Medium– 9 Year — Rheem Performance Plus — $619 $739 for a Rheem Gladiator 40 Gal. Medium 12 Year — In this example, the 9 year warranty costs $180 more than the 6 year warranty, as seen in the table above.

The 12-year guarantee, on the other hand, comes with extra features such as an automatic shut-off valve and leak detection as standard.

a fantastic post about the importance of hot water heater warranties and alternatives can be found at This Old House.

50 gallon electric water heater prices

Product	Price	Efficiency	Annual cost	FHR
Rheem Performance 50 Gallon Electric Heater	$549	.93	$420	61 gallons
AO Smith 50 Gallon Electric Water Heater	$549	.92	$424	62 gallons
Bradford White 50 Gallon Electric Water Heater	$793	.95	$405	64 gallons

The costs listed in the table above are for the base models of 50 gallon electric hot water heaters from Rheem, AO Smith, and Bradford White. However, as we discussed above in the section on 40 gallon water heaters, there are a few additional aspects that will influence the price:

The height — tall vs. medium vs. short electric water heaters

Most manufacturers provide a few various height options, giving clients a greater variety of alternatives to choose from that will match their needs.

The following table compares the pricing of Rheem’s tall, medium, and short alternatives, as well as their sizes:

• Tall (over 60 inches): $539
• Medium (over 48 inches): $519
• Short (under 32 inches): $529

Ultimately, the most essential thing is to pick a water heater that is both aesthetically pleasing and provides the amount of water your family need. For those who must squeeze their water heater into limited space, it is worthwhile to invest the extra money to get a short type. Otherwise, try to go with the medium because it is the most affordable and has a tank that is similar in size to the tall. It is also recommended that you consider a tankless water heater if a short electric hot water heater appears to be too tiny for the area you have in mind.

Check out these tankless water heater reviews to see how much they cost and how much they save.

Warranty length — 6 year vs. 9 year vs. 12 year

The length of the warranty has a significant influence on the pricing. Most manufacturers provide consumers with three alternative warranty options: six-year, nine-year, and twelve-year warranties. Using the Rheem water heater warranty information as a starting point, we’ll examine how prices fluctuate based on the length of the warranty period this time around. Performance 50 Gal. Medium – 6 Year— $519 Rheem Performance Performance 50 Gal. Medium – 9 Year— $699 Rheem Performance 50 Gal. Medium – 9 Year $ 849 for a Rheem Gladiator 50 gal.

In this instance, an extra $180 will be charged for a 9-year warranty.

However, when you purchase the extended warranty, you will receive a few more benefits.

As previously said, I believe that warranties are a matter of personal choice that is dependent on your tastes.

Most energy-efficient water heater

A significant effect on pricing is the length of the warranty. Six-year, nine-year, and twelve-year warranties are the most common choices offered by manufacturers to their consumers. Using the Rheem water heater warranty information as a starting point, we’ll examine how prices differ based on the term of the guarantee. Rheem Performance 50 Gal. Medium – 6 Year – $519.00 Six hundred nine hundred dollars for a Rheem Performance 50 gal. medium – nine-year warranty. $ 849 for a Rheem Gladiator 50 gal.

There is an extra $180 charge for a 9-year warranty in this scenario.

In exchange for a longer warranty, you do, however, receive a few additional benefits.

Also included are automatic shut-off and leak detection, which may save you money and prevent damage to your property.

As previously said, I believe that warranties are a personal choice that is influenced by your particular choices and circumstances. Prices are important to some individuals, while peace of mind is important to others.

Read our other guides and reviews

Our other guides and articles on home energy efficiency and improvement may interest you if you enjoyed this one. They are as follows:

• I’m wondering how much a heat pump will set you back. The finest tankless water heater for the home
• A guide to LED lighting for the home