Investing in a water heater is a lifetime decision you will never regret. This is an essential appliance that ensures you have hot water in the house to meet all your bathing and washing needs.
Most water heaters are found in homes, office buildings, and industrial facilities. And with the high demand for water heaters, most of the available models are high-quality and will last for decades. The best heater type should meet the set prevailing efficiency standards. The market is split between gas and electric water heaters. In essence, with the many benefits of owning a water heater, you have to take the initiative to choose the right model in the market.
Water Heater Type
The first consideration is the ideal water heater to settle for and meet your home water heating needs. Here are the top types of heaters used in many residents in the USA. Have a look:
1. Storage Tank Water Heater
A conventional storage-tank water heater is a popular model in many homes. It comes with a standard tank that holds water that is to be heated for day-to-day uses. The capacity of your tank determines the amount of hot water available for use. The tank is insulated to keep your water warm all day and night long.
The tank comes with two main valves, the temperature control and pressure control valves. Regular maintenance is imperative to keep your water heater running correctly. This is one of the most affordable models to opt for, and it does not require a lot of labor to install.1
2. Tankless Water Heater
If you are looking for an endless supply of hot water, a tankless water heater is the best model to go for. This water heater design features the latest technology and will satisfy your needs. This water heater does not come with an attached tank and the super-heated coils make it easy to heat water and in the shortest time possible.
The on-demand water heaters are an excellent choice for large families even when they need hot water at once. These heater models vary in size, and you should pick the best tankless water heater that will satisfy your household needs. Try and avoid investing in a small tankless water heater, as you will not keep up with your water usage. In most cases, you will end up with cold or lukewarm water.2
3. Heat Pump Water Heater
This water heater model comes with distinctive features and a great choice in some homes. Heat pump water heaters are a game-changer in terms of water heating efficiency. It comes with a tank and heat pump and uses electricity to move heat and cool the heated air. Hence, you have a safe and clean water heating solution.3
4. Solar-powered Water Heater
A solar-powered water heater is the most energy-efficient model to go for in the market. This model will rely on a roof-mounted solar panel as its primary source of energy. This is an energy-efficient model and will save you tons of money on energy bills.4
Type of Fuel Used
With a clear understanding of the different types of water heaters widely used in many homes in the US, let the fuel type guide you choose the best model. The availability of the energy source you need to run your water heater in your area will influence your water heater choices. You can decide to settle for water heaters that use:
- Electricity
- Geothermal energy
- Natural gas
- Propane and
- Solar energy
An electric tankless water heater is a common water heating choice among many households in the US. The positive aspects of this water heater model include the fact you don't have to spend a fortune on the model; it's safe, efficient, and versatile for use.
Cost of Water Heaters and Installation
The cost of buying a tankless or tank water heater will vary from one shop to another. However, the tankless water heater cost will be influenced by the labor and maintenance costs. The efficiency and type of fuel used on the water heater model you choose will also impact its overall cost.
Most plumbers quote a flat rate that includes the materials to use and additional labor. It's wise to rely on professional installation services because this project is not DIY-friendly.5
Buy the Right Water Heater Today
If you decide to replace an old water heater or invest in a new one, you have to get the entire process right. It's wise to replace a water heater if it's leaking, you keep running out of hot water when in need, the water is rusty, or it has been in use for more than 10 years.
If stuck, consult professionals for top-notch water heater buying assistance and learn more about the installation process. You will come across a wide range of water heaters popular in many US households, and you will not miss a brand that meets your needs.
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/storage-water-heaters[↩]
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-and-cool/water-heating/tankless-or-demand-type-water-heaters[↩]
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/heat-pump-water-heaters[↩]
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/solar-water-heaters[↩]
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/selecting-new-water-heater[↩]
