Water heater installation isn’t fun to deal with, but make sure you’ve chosen the appropriate model for your needs to enjoy a smooth process.
A water heater is an essential appliance in any home, providing hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. Whether you’re replacing an old unit or installing a new one, choosing the right water heater is crucial for efficiency, comfort, and cost savings. This guide will help you navigate the different types of water heaters and determine which one best suits your household needs.
Types of Water Heaters
When selecting a water heater, it’s important to understand the available options:
Storage Tank Water Heaters
The most common type, storage tank water heaters, store hot water in a tank and keep it heated until needed. These units come in various sizes, typically ranging from 30 to 80 gallons. While they provide a steady supply of hot water, they can be less energy-efficient due to standby heat loss.
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters heat water only when needed, eliminating standby heat loss and improving energy efficiency. These units are compact and provide endless hot water, making them ideal for households with high demand. However, the initial cost is higher, and they may require upgraded gas or electrical systems.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Also known as hybrid water heaters, heat pump models use electricity to move heat from the air to heat water. They are highly energy-efficient but require more space and a warm climate to operate optimally.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar-powered water heaters use energy from the sun to heat water, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. While they offer significant long-term savings, they require a higher upfront investment and depend on sufficient sunlight exposure.
Condensing Water Heaters
Ideal for homes using natural gas, condensing water heaters capture and reuse exhaust gases to heat water more efficiently. They are best suited for households with high hot water usage.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
- Household Size and Hot Water Demand
- A larger household will require a bigger tank or a high-capacity tankless system.
- Consider peak usage times to ensure adequate hot water supply.
- Energy Efficiency
- Look for the Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating to determine efficiency.
- Consider ENERGY STAR®-certified models for better savings.
- Fuel Type and Availability
- Gas, electric, solar, and hybrid models each have different installation and operational costs.
- Choose a model that fits your home’s existing infrastructure.
- Installation Costs and Space Requirements
- Traditional tank water heaters require floor space, while tankless models can be mounted on walls.
- Heat pump water heaters need extra clearance for proper airflow.
- Budget and Long-Term Savings
- While high-efficiency models have a higher upfront cost, they provide long-term energy savings.
- Factor in maintenance and potential rebates or incentives for energy-efficient units.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.