Looking for a New Water Heater?

Did you know that heating water can account for up to 17% of your annual energy expenses? With such a significant impact on your budget, selecting the right water heater is essential. There are a lot of new products on the market, so let’s review the different types of water heaters that you can choose from.

Gas water heaters           

Chances are, many of you have a gas water heater at home. These traditional tank-type heaters feature a gas burner at the bottom, heating the stored water. Older models with large chimneys were less efficient, but modern power-vented models offer improved energy use. Typically, these heaters last 12-15 years, although insurance companies often recommend replacement after 10 years. By choosing one of these systems, you are choosing a mid range price option with a mid to high range operating cost.

Electric water heaters

Electric water heaters work essentially the same as gas water heaters, but because of the cost of electricity, they are most likely going to cost more to run. The good news is that they are usually cheaper to buy because they do not require any difficult gas or chimney connections. Electric tanks have a similar lifespan as a gas water heater. The downfall of these tanks is that even though they are very efficient, your upfront savings will melt away in operating costs compared to a conventional gas water heater.

Hybrid electric water heaters 

New to the market, hybrid electric water heaters combine a heat pump and a traditional electric heater. They use ambient air to heat the water and switch to electric elements when needed. These units are highly efficient and can be a cost-effective solution if you don't have access to natural gas. However, be prepared for a higher initial investment compared to standard electric tanks.

High-efficiency tank water heaters

These tank type gas water heaters are 94% efficient thanks to their spiral shape condensing heat exchanger. This design provides much greater heat transfer surface than a standard straight flue tube, resulting in higher hot water output than a standard water heater. While the upfront costs are higher, the long-term savings on operating costs make them a worthwhile investment.

Tankless water heaters

My favorite—oops, did I just say that?

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are highly efficient units. They only produce hot water when a faucet, the dishwasher, or the washing machine is running. Although the upfront cost to install such a system is higher, these units boast 95% efficiency and have a lifespan of about 20 years with proper maintenance. They are a fantastic addition to any home. The main drawback of tankless systems is their limited output, usually around 5 gallons of hot water per minute. This means they can typically support about three shower heads or a combination of a shower head and a dishwasher at once. Depending on the size of your home and your hot water needs, you may have to install multiple units in series to meet the demand.

While there has been a strong push towards electrification, there is a noticeable trend to reevaluate this approach. Consider your options carefully to ensure you choose the most efficient and cost-effective solution for your home. With this information at your fingertips, I hope you're better equipped to select your next water heater.

Need help selecting the perfect water heater for your home? Contact ACE Plumbing and Heating today for expert advice and installation services!