What to Consider When Choosing a New Water Heater

Whether from age, lack of proper maintenance, or just something breaking – every homeowner will experience having to replace a water heater at some point. When that time comes, you want to know exactly what type of water heater you want to replace your old one with so that you minimize how much time you spend without a working water heater.  Today, there is a large selection of water heaters from which to choose, with a wide range of features and price points. The right water heater for your home will depend on a variety of factors but the team at Second Opinion Plumbing can help guide you to the optimal water heater for your home.

One of the most common mistakes made when choosing a water heater is choosing the wrong size water heater.  The size of water heater that you choose should be capable of providing enough hot water for everyone in the house because nothing is worse than getting in the shower and running out of hot water. Depending on how many people live in your home and the frequency with which you need hot water, you will want to make sure that if you choose a traditional water heater that the tank is large enough to produce an adequate supply of hot water.

If you choose a tankless water heater you will need to carefully examine the “GPM” which stands for “gallons per minute.” Different models have different GPMs so it’s important to choose a model with the appropriate GPM to meet your needs. When considering cost, tankless water heaters do tend to be more expensive. But, they are smaller and more energy efficient which means they take up less space. Speak to an experienced plumber to get assistance choosing a great new water heater for your home.

 

Types of heaters

Conventional

The most popular type of appliances is conventional single-family storage heaters. They can hold between 20 to 80 gallons of water. It releases hot water from its tank and replaces it with cold water from tanks. Therefore, family members can have a reservoir of heated water readily available at all times.

Tankless

These are better known as instantaneous devices because they provide supply on a needed basis. It has a gas burner or electric coil to heat water to prevent any standby loss of energy. As of storage capacity, the tank holds up to 2 to 5 gallons.

Solar heaters

Domestic solar heaters use solar panels to heat water. Then, the heated supply is delivered to a tank. Homeowners can choose between active or passive solar systems based on their needs. Active systems circulate water through collectors and deliver it to a home. Conversely, passive systems work by preheating water in batches. They store warmer water at the top of a tank and sink cold water to the bottom.

 

Tips to consider

Tank vs. tankless

When trying to choose water heaters, homeowners have two main options: tank and tankless. The former type includes an insulated chamber with a thermostat to control temperature. Tankless appliances, on the other hand, cannot store water and only heat it when required.

Efficiency

People need energy-efficient heaters to save money on electricity bills. It is essential to check the energy rating of an appliance by thoroughly researching the market. If needed, consult with professionals to make an informed decision.

Storage capacity

The size of water heater is to be selected based on the members of a family. This factor also dictates a device’s storage capacity. It ensures steady water flow for all persons without any interruption. Choosing smaller sizes would lead to inconvenient situations where one might even run out of hot water.

Design

The market is filled with water heaters with different styles and color options. Homeowners should consider the layout of their bathroom to find a well-suited appliance. Another design factor to keep in mind is the color.

Warranty

Manufacturers offer one to three years of warranty for their product. This period extends to five years if they are any manufacturing defect. It helps to avoid spending on frequent repairs or part replacements. However, pre-applied warranty may not prove valid for DIY repairs, so it is essential to hire authorized professionals. People can also check with their local stores for added warranty on an appliance. Most importantly, set an initial budget for better cost savings.