4 Things To Consider When You're Buying A New Water Heater
If your old water heater has rust spots on the tank, it's time to think about replacing it before the rust eats a hole in the tank and causes a flood. If you've never bought a water heater before, you may have questions about the type you need to buy. Here are some things you may want to discuss with the dealer or plumber when making your decision.
1. The Type Of Heater
A tank heater is the common type that has been in homes for many decades, and this is the one you might be used to owning. However, tankless heaters are getting more popular in recent years. These heat water on demand without the need to store hot water in a tank.
You might also consider a solar heater, which uses uses the power of the sun to create hot water. These often mount on the roof and they work best if your roof gets full sun most of the day. Another option is the heat pump water heater. Instead of heating water with electricity, this heater moves heat from outside to heat water in the tank. This is similar to the way a heat pump works that warms or cools your home.
2. Your Budget
When you consider your budget, think about two things. First is the initial cost, and the second is the operating cost. For instance, a traditional tank heater is an enticing choice because it is an affordable option, but it is the least efficient and most costly to operate over time. A tankless heater is much more efficient, but the initial costs could be much higher if you also have to upgrade your electrical panel to support the addition of the heater.
3. The Size
One important thing you want to get right when you buy your new water heater is the size. You want everyone to have hot water for showers and you want to do laundry without using all the hot water. A plumber can calculate the size you need no matter what type of water heater you buy.
They take into account the number of people in your house and the appliances you have that use water. You may also want to consider your future needs since the new heater will last for many years. Your hot water needs may increase or decrease in the coming years.
4. Smart Capability
You don't need a water heater with the latest technology to supply your home with plenty of hot water, but if you like to have the latest innovations, you might want a smart water heater. These connect to your phone so you can monitor and control the temperature for energy savings. Plus, the system monitors itself and sends a notice to your phone if there is a leak or problem with the heater.
For more information on installing a new water heater, talk to local contractors.