Water heaters are essential components of any home, as they enable homeowners to enjoy hot water at the turn of a faucet. In modern households, water heaters are typically powered by electricity or gas, and come in all sizes and shapes, making it possible to heat water in homes, apartments, and other dwellings of any size.
When it comes to selecting a water heater, one of the first considerations is whether you need an electric or gas-powered model. Electric models are more energy-efficient and less expensive than gas-powered models, but may require more frequent maintenance. Electric models are easy to install and are ideal for small households with limited space. Gas-powered models, on the other hand, provide more power and cost less to operate, but often require a professional installation.
The size of a water heater is also an important factor to consider. Smaller water heaters are perfect for smaller households and apartments, while larger ones are well-suited for larger spaces. It’s important to calculate the estimated number of gallons needed for your household before purchasing a water heater in order to make sure it is adequately sized for your needs.
When choosing a water heater, it’s important to consider its Energy Star rating, which measures its overall efficiency. Water heaters with high Energy Star ratings are more energy efficient, providing greater savings on energy costs in the long run.
Adding insulation to your water heater is another way to help improve its efficiency. Insulating a water heater can reduce its energy use by up to 25%, which makes it especially useful for larger households that consume large amounts of hot water.
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that water heaters have an expiration date, usually ranging from 8 to 12 years. If your current water heater is older than this, it may be time to consider replacing it.
When it comes to outfitting your home with the right water heater, it’s important to consider the size, type, and energy efficiency of the unit. Knowing the estimated number of gallons needed for your household, researching Energy Star ratings, and taking steps to insulate the heater all help to ensure that you get the perfect water heater for your home.