How to choose a water heater? A water heater is an essential part of your home, and when it’s time to replace your old one, you might not know where to start. With all the different types and sizes of water heaters on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your home.
This article will discuss the different types of water heaters and what to look for when choosing one.
Types of Water Heaters
Different types of water heaters are available on the market, and each has its own set of pros and cons.
Storage Water Heaters
Storage water heaters are the most common type of water heater. They come in various sizes and are typically powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. Storage water heaters work by heating water in a tank and storing it until it’s needed.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are a newer option on the market. They don’t have a storage tank and heat water on demand. Tankless water heaters are more efficient than storage water heaters because they don’t lose heat from a stored hot water tank.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water. Water is pumped out of the tank and heated by the sun in a solar collector. A typical water heater is utilized to raise the temperature of the water in the tank if it is not adequately hot. They’re a more environmentally-friendly option, but they can be more expensive to install and maintain.
Things to Consider When Choosing A Water Heater
When you’re choosing a water heater, there are several things you’ll need to consider, including:
Fuel type
Getting a new water heater allows switching to a more energy-efficient fuel type. If you’re currently using an electric water heater, you might consider switching to a natural gas or propane model. Natural gas and propane models are typically more efficient than electric models.
- Natural gas: If you have a natural gas line in your home, you might consider a natural gas water heater. Natural gas models are typically more efficient than electric ones and are less expensive to operate.
- Propane: If you don’t have a natural gas line in your home, you might want to consider a propane water heater. Propane models are typically less expensive to operate than electric models and are more efficient.
- Electric: Electric water heaters are the most common type of water heater. They’re typically cheaper to install than other types of water heaters, but they’re more expensive to operate.
- Oil: Oil-fired water heaters are less standard than other water heaters, but they’re an option if you don’t have a natural gas or propane line in your home.
Sizes
Water heaters come in various sizes. Your size will depend on the number of people in your home and your water usage.
- 2-4 people: A 40-gallon water heater is typically sufficient for a home with 2-4 people.
- 5-6 people: A 50-gallon water heater is usually enough for a home with 5-6 people.
- 7 or more people: A 70-gallon water heater is typically sufficient for a home with seven or more people.
Energy efficiency
When choosing a water heater, you’ll want to consider its energy efficiency. The most efficient water heaters are typically natural gas or propane models. Solar water heaters are also a good option if you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly choice.
Cost
The cost of a water heater will vary depending on the type, size, and energy efficiency. Typically, electric models are the least expensive to purchase, while natural gas and propane models are more expensive. Solar water heaters are also more expensive but are typically the most efficient option.
Installation
Installing a water heater can be a difficult and dangerous job. You’ll need to hire a professional if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself. Installation costs will vary depending on the type of water heater you choose and the complexity of the installation.
Conclusion
When you’re choosing a water heater, there are several things you’ll need to consider, including fuel type, size, energy efficiency, and cost. You’ll also need to decide whether to install it yourself or hire a professional. Read it here to learn more about water heaters: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/selecting-new-water-heater.
If you need a new water heater, Furnace Repair Winnipeg can help you install it. We’re a team of certified HVAC technicians with years of experience. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
