Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Water Heaters

A new water heater is a major purchase. It’s not only a big expense; a new water heater will also affect your energy bills, your water temperatures, and your general comfort. You can rely on our experts to help you make the choice, but we also want you to be informed.

Types of Water Heaters

There are four types of water heaters you may want to consider, two of which are fairly conventional. The other two are newer styles. Each has advantages and disadvantages you need to understand to decide which is best for your home.

Storage Tank Water Heater

This is the most conventional kind of water heater and the type you most likely think of when you imagine a water heater. Typical tanks hold between 20 and 80 gallons of water and may be heated by gas, fuel oil, or electricity.

Energy bills can be high with tank water heaters, as compared to other options, with natural gas being the most economical choice for heating. Advantages of this kind of water heater include having a ready supply of hot water for multiple uses and a constant temperature.

On-Demand Water Heater

Also known as a tankless water heater, the on-demand system uses any of the same heat sources as a tank system, but heats water as you need it. It does not store a supply of water like a tank does. A major benefit of this system is that it will save you money on monthly energy bills.

There are downsides to this solution, though. Depending on the size of the heater and your home, an on-demand system may not supply enough water for multiple uses or consecutive showers. You may also get inconsistent water temperatures. On the other hand, these systems give you greater flexibility. You can use several smaller units throughout the home, or one big one in your furnace area.

Heat Pump Water Heater

A heat pump system is relatively new technology. Instead of heating water directly, it moves heat around. A heat pump water heater is much more energy efficient than a tank heater for this reason. Getting this system is a trade-off: You will pay more for it up front, but you will save money over the long run with lower energy bills.

Solar-Powered Water Heater

Using the power of the sun to heat water, a solar-powered system is the most energy efficient of all. Active systems use pumps to move water, while passive systems use gravity and natural circulation. Although it may cost more to install, you can save a lot of money using solar heating. Some states, like Hawaii, and countries have already required that all homes use solar-powered water heaters.

If you’re considering getting a new water heater for your home, give us a call. Let one of our professionals help you make the right choice for your home.