How To Choose a Water Heater: 12 Factors to Consider For Your Best Options

October 18, 2024
Posted by Ty Gailey
How To Choose a Water Heater: 12 Factors to Consider

Before buying a hot water heater, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you choose the right unit for your home:

  1. Type of Water Heater
  2. Fuel Type
  3. Capacity
  4. Energy Efficiency
  5. Cost
  6. Space and Location
  7. Lifespan
  8. Warranty
  9. Maintenance
  10. Local Codes and Permits
  11. Recovery Rate (for Tank Water Heaters)
  12. Smart Features

Type of Water Heater

  • Tank Water Heater: Stores hot water in a large tank, available in gas or electric models. These are typically more affordable upfront but less energy-efficient than tankless models.
  • Tankless Water Heater: Heats water on demand, so you never run out. They are more energy-efficient and take up less space, but they come with a higher initial cost.
  • Heat Pump Water Heater: Uses heat from the air or ground to heat the water, making them very energy-efficient, but they are also more expensive upfront.
  • Solar Water Heater: Uses energy from the sun to heat water, ideal for eco-friendly homes but can be expensive and may need a backup system in less sunny regions.

Fuel Type

  • Electric: Easier to install and generally less expensive upfront but may have higher operational costs depending on electricity rates.
  • Gas: Often more energy-efficient and cheaper to operate than electric, but they require a gas line and proper venting.
  • Propane: Similar to gas heaters, but you’ll need access to a propane supply.
  • Solar or Hybrid: Highly energy-efficient but come with higher upfront costs.

Capacity

  • Tank Water Heaters: Choose a tank size based on your household size and hot water usage. For example, a 40-50 gallon tank is typically enough for a family of 4.
  • Tankless Water Heaters: These are sized based on flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM) and temperature rise. Ensure the unit can handle the simultaneous demand of your household (e.g., running a shower and dishwasher at the same time).

Energy Efficiency

  • Look for the Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings, which indicate how efficiently the water heater converts energy into hot water. Higher numbers mean greater efficiency.
  • Energy Star-rated models are a good choice for reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

Cost

  • Consider both the initial cost of the unit and the long-term operating costs. While tankless and energy-efficient models are more expensive upfront, they can save money in the long run through reduced energy use.
  • Don’t forget to factor in installation costs, which can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and whether you’re switching between fuel types.

Space and Location

  • Ensure the water heater will fit in the intended space. Tankless water heaters are compact and can be installed in small spaces, whereas tank heaters require more room.
  • Consider ventilation requirements if choosing a gas-powered unit.

Lifespan

  • Tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years
  • Tankless models can last up to 20 years. A longer lifespan may justify a higher initial cost.

Warranty

  • Check the manufacturer’s warranty for both the unit and its parts. Longer warranties typically indicate a more durable and reliable product.

Maintenance

  • Some types of water heaters, like tank models, need regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment. Tankless heaters also need periodic descaling if you have hard water.

Local Codes and Permits

  • Make sure your new water heater complies with local building codes. You may also need permits for installation, especially for gas and solar water heaters.

Recovery Rate (for Tank Water Heaters)

  • The recovery rate for tank water heaters measures how quickly the heater can reheat water after it has been depleted. A higher recovery rate is better for larger families who use a lot of hot water.

Smart Features

  • Some modern water heaters come with smart controls that allow you to monitor and control the water heater via a smartphone app, helping you adjust temperatures and maximize energy savings.

By considering these factors, you can select the best hot water heater that fits your household’s needs, budget, and energy goals.

From traditional gas and electric water heaters to modern tankless and high-efficiency models, we’ll help you choose and install the perfect system for your home. At Plumbing Express we offer the latest Rinnai® tankless water heater technology and the most reliable Rheem® tank water heaters.

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