Are you wondering about the different types of water heaters and if there is one that’s better than the rest? When it comes to heaters, there is no one right choice. What is right for you depends on your homeowner’s needs and preferences.
Do you like to keep your entire house heated year-round, or do you prefer to heat your home as needed? If you’re not already using hot water, it’s a good idea to upgrade to one as they are an essential appliance to have in your home.
Keep reading to learn about the different types of water heaters and how to choose the right one for your home.
What are the Different Types of Water Heaters?
There are several types that are available for purchase. Depending on the size of your home and your hot water needs, you should select an appropriate water heating system.
Storage Tank
Storage tanks are the most commonly used type, as they are relatively inexpensive, offer good output, and have a wide variety of options in terms of size and fuel type (there are electric, propane, and even natural gas models). A smaller tank will provide ample hot water for a small family, while a larger tank will provide hot water that can be used by multiple people simultaneously.
Additionally, water heater comes with different energy efficiency ratings, so it is important to do research and find the right one that has the best rating and fits your family’s needs. It is also important to note that these require regular cleaning, so plan on a regular maintenance schedule once you’ve purchased one.
Tankless or On-Demand
They use a heating element that is activated when hot water is needed. In comparison, tank heaters use more energy to heat and store water in a tank. Tankless is a great choice when you want to lower energy costs and take up a smaller area of your home.
They are more efficient than standard electric, gas, and tank because they can heat the water directly without having to store it. Although tankless is more expensive compared to tank water heaters, you will save on energy bills in the long run. Before you choose a tankless, consider factors such as the size of your family, the size of your home, and the climate.
Heat-Pump
A Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) extracts heat from ambient air and transfers it to water in a tank—much like a refrigerator. HPWHs are energy-efficient and use 60%–80% less energy than conventional water heaters. They also require less maintenance and typically last up to 20 years.
As a result, HPWHs are a great option if you’re looking to reduce your energy bills. When choosing an HPWH, pay attention to the unit’s Energy Factor rating, which is an indication of how efficient the unit is. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is. Additionally, consider the size of the tank and the storage capacity since a larger tank can hold more hot water and save you time when it comes to filling up a bath or doing the dishes.
Solar
Solar use energy from the sun to warm the water needed for domestic use. This makes them a great option for those looking to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint. Solar water heaters are typically found in climates with a high amount of sunshine, but they are becoming increasingly popular as more and more individuals look to go green.
It uses evacuated tubes that absorb the sun’s rays and converts them into heat. This heat is then used to warm the water needed for use. They are most efficient when installed with insulation panels to help reduce heat loss.
When choosing solar, it is important to take into account the size of the unit that best suits your needs, as well as the hot water usage patterns of the household. Additionally, the total cost of installation should also factor in when making your decision.
Condensing
It extracts heat from the flue gases of a fuel-burning heater, condensing it and using it to heat cold water and produce hot water. This is typically more efficient than standard and is ideal for homes with high water demands or very low temperatures.
The main difference between a condensing and a non-condensing one is the heat exchanger, which utilizes the condensing process to capture additional heat energy generated by the flue gases and use it to heat water. When choosing a condensing heater, you should focus on a few key factors, such as energy efficiency, temperature control, and water temperature. Make sure you select will meet your household’s hot water needs and that you can access and maintain it easily.
Gas
Tank models are the most common, offering plenty of hot water on demand and typically lasting for up to 10 years or longer. Tankless models, which only heat water when it is needed, provide hot water on demand and can last up to 20 years or longer. Heat pump models are more energy efficient than both tank and tankless, while they can take considerable time to heat up water.
To choose the right gas water heater, one must consider the size of the home, the local climate, the budget, and the type of fuel source available. In addition, the efficiency rating of the model, available warranties, additional features, and installation costs should all be taken into account.
Conventional
They are powered by an electrical connection, gas, or oil. They work by raising the temperature of water stored in a tank and delivering it to the desired location. This is ideal for large homes and commercial spaces due to its ability to hold more water, thereby providing more hot water throughout the home.
When selecting the right conventional water heater for your home, consider its size based on the number of people in the household, the capacity of hot water you’ll need, and its energy efficiency. Another important factor to consider is the source of energy used to power the heater, as it will directly affect operational costs.
Selecting The Best for Your Home
Ultimately, choosing the right water heater for your home is key to having hot water when you need it. Remember to research the various types that are available and consider the cost, fuel source, energy efficiency, warranty, and size when making your purchase. Speak to a specialist to ensure you make the best decision for your needs. Start your search for the perfect water heater today!
For more information on home improvement topics, please check out some of the other articles on our blog.
