How To Take The Mystery Out of Selecting A Water Heater?

Answer 1

The life expectancy of a tank-type hot water heater is 13 years. For most of this time, the water heater will perform without any attention, then all of a sudden, you find water all over the floor. Before you rush out and make an emergency call to your plumber, there are several things to consider.

The first is what size hot water heater your family needs now and for the next few years. Perhaps the size of your family has changed. If the kids are growing up, you may want to consider getting a larger heater. Teenagers tend to take longer showers and consequently use up more hot water. On the other hand, maybe the kids have moved out of the house and you can get by with a smaller size.

What is the availability of different fuel types? If you have both natural gas and electric available, you can change if it makes economic sense.

Electric water heaters cost less initially and are simpler to install. However, electric utility rates tend to be higher so the operating costs over the years will be higher when compared to natural gas.

Gas water heaters are a little more complicated. They need adequate venting for the flue gases and a sufficient air supply for combustion. This makes the location of the heater more critical. Gas backdrafting is also a consideration and carbon monoxide detectors may need to be installed.

The efficiency of the water heaters is a major factor. Electric water heaters have energy factors above 95%, while natural gas heaters are in the range of 60% to 65%.

Tankless water heaters have become more popular in recent years. Their efficiency is higher, around 80%, because they do not have standby heat losses from a tank. Based on average gas rates, a tankless water heater will save about $100 per year for the average homeowner.

The initial cost of a tankless heater is higher compared to gas and electric. Determine the payback period to see if the annual fuel savings justify the additional cost of the unit.