December 14/2024
How to Select a Water Heater
Whether you’re installing a water heater for the first time in your newly constructed home or upgrading your failing unit, it’s important to make the right choice. Nothing is more frustrating than spending hundreds of dollars on an undersized or oversized water heater. In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing provides you with tips on how to select a water heater.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing takes pride in offering dependable water heater services backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If you’re looking for a tankless water heater replacement, do not hesitate to contact us for professional and budget-friendly service.
- Determine Your Hot Water Needs
You want to install a water heater that will provide you with enough hot water for everyone in your household, even during peak demand. The most significant factors to consider when selecting a water heater are household size, peak demand, and appliance usage.
If you’re considering installing a storage tank water heater, a 40-50 gallon tank is enough for a household of 2-3 people. For every additional person, you should add 10 gallons to the tank capacity. A water heater that’s too small can leave you frustrated every morning when the demand for hot water is high. On the other hand, an oversized water heater can waste energy by heating more water than you need.
A tankless water heater is a great alternative to a storage tank water heater. If you’re experiencing frequent hot water shortages, it may be time to ditch the storage tank water heater and call a licensed plumbing service to install a tankless water heater. This type of water heater provides you with hot water on demand, saves you energy, and takes up less space. A professional plumbing technician will calculate the total flow rate needed for all fixtures and help you make the right choice.
Select a tank size that can accommodate your household's peak demand. If you have consistent hot water needs, a tankless water heater can provide instant hot water on demand. Reach out to a local plumbing repair service for tankless water heater installation.
Water heaters use a variety of fuel types, including natural gas, propane, electricity, and solar power. Natural gas is affordable and heats faster, but the installation costs are often higher. If you live in an area with limited access to natural gas, you may want to opt for propane. Even though it’s expensive as compared to natural gas, it is a reliable source of energy and can be used for various heating needs in your home.
Electric water heaters have lower upfront costs. In addition, the installation process is simpler, especially for tankless models. They also produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. However, electricity is often more expensive than natural gas, leading to higher energy bills. When you’re choosing the fuel type, consider your local energy costs and environmental impact.
- Evaluate Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a non-negotiable factor when choosing a water heater. You want to install a water heater that provides you with sufficient hot water without putting a dent in your wallet. A higher EF rating indicates greater energy efficiency. If you’re considering installing a storage tank water heater, look for a well-insulated tank to minimize heat loss. Our plumbers recommend choosing an Energy Star-certified model for optimal energy performance. It’s a good idea to consult with a plumbing technician specializing in water heater installation in order to make an informed decision.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the plumbing company you can count on when you are in need of reliable water heater services. From tankless water heater replacement to new installations, we’ve got you covered.
