Choosing the Right Water Heater for Your Home

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Water heaters are an essential appliance in every home. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right water heater can be a daunting task. There are electric, gas, tankless, and hybrid water heaters, each with its own set of pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of water heaters available and help you choose the right one for your home.

Types of Water Heaters

Before we look at which water heater is best for your home, let's understand the different types of water heaters available.

• Electric Water Heaters: Electric water heaters are one of the most common types of water heaters. They are easy to install and are less expensive than gas water heaters. However, they tend to have a higher operating cost compared to gas heaters.
• Gas Water Heaters: Gas water heaters are more expensive than electric water heaters, but they are more energy efficient. They use natural gas or propane to heat the water, which is cheaper than electricity. Gas water heaters also tend to last longer than electric water heaters.
• Tankless Water Heaters: Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular these days. They are smaller in size, and they provide hot water on demand. They are energy efficient because they don’t store hot water in a tank. However, they are more expensive to purchase and install than other types of water heaters.
• Hybrid Water Heaters: Hybrid water heaters combine the features of both electric and gas water heaters. They use electricity to heat the water but have a backup gas burner, making them more energy efficient.

Size Matters

Choosing the right size of the water heater is crucial. An oversized water heater will cost you more to operate, while an undersized unit will not meet your hot water requirements. To determine the right size, consider your household’s hot water usage and peak hour demand.

Efficiency

Efficiency is another critical factor to consider when choosing a water heater. Look for a unit that has a high energy factor (EF) rating. The EF rating measures the efficiency of the unit. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is.

Cost

As with any appliance, cost is a significant factor when choosing a water heater. Consider the upfront cost of the unit as well as the operational cost and the maintenance cost over the unit's lifespan. Although tankless water heaters are more expensive than other types of heaters, they are more energy efficient and have a longer lifespan, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Choosing the right water heater for your home can be a challenging task, but it’s essential. Consider the type of water heater, the size, efficiency, and cost when making your decision.

To learn more about water heaters, contact a professional near you. 

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5 January 2024