Hot water is one of the most treasured modern-day amenities. We use water heaters in our homes to be able to enjoy hot water, but your water heater is one of the top energy users in your home. Did you know that there are several different types of water heaters to choose from? Let’s explore some of the options below.
There are four main types of water heaters; storage tank, tankless, solar and heat pump. The storage tank is the most common water heater found in homes. Water is kept heated inside the storage tank by natural gas, electricity, oil or propane. When the faucet is turned on, hot water flows out of the top of the tank and cold water will flow into the bottom of the tank to replace it. Tankless heaters are also known as on demand heaters. With a tankless heater, water is heated by gas or electricity when the water flows through it without the need for a tank. Solar heaters work by water circulating from the tank through a solar collector where it is then heated by the sun. If the water in the tank does not get hot enough, a conventional water heater would be used to heat the water to the correct temperature. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from one place to another. Heat pumps can be used alone for water heating or they can be combined with your heating system.
So, how do you decide which water heating system is right for you? There are several factors you will want to consider when making your decision including; cost of the system including installation, cost and availability of energy sources, and the energy efficiency of the water heater . Here are some pros and cons of each type of water heater to help you determine which type is best for you.
Storage water heater
- Inexpensive
- 10-15% of energy is wasted through radiant heat loss
- If used for extended periods, hot water can run out
- Life expectancy is 10-15 years
- Cost is $200-$400 plus the cost of installation
Tankless water heater
- Can be mounted inside or on an outside wall and take up little space
- Very little standby energy loss
- Use 20-30% less energy than comparable storage tank unit
- The water flow rate is limited by the size of the unit
- Can be costly to install-$600-$1000 for the unit plus the cost of installation
- Life expectancy 20 years or more
Solar water heater
- Very low to no energy costs
- Requires the home to be in full sun throughout the year
- Requires a conventional water heater for backup
- Expensive and costly to install-DIY units run around $2000 while a professionally installed unit typically runs $5000-$7000
- Life expectancy 20 years or more
Heat pump water heaters
- Can be up to 2-3 time more energy efficient than electric water heaters
- Must be installed in a location that stays between 40-90 degrees Fahrenheit
- Unit does not operate efficiently in a cold area
- Can be combined with you heating/cooling system or can stand alone
- Low operating costs
- System costs between $1400-$2000 including installation
There is much to consider when choosing the correct water heater for your particular home and lifestyle. It’s important to seek professional advice. Plumbers are the best source and if you are looking for one we recommend Masters Company Plumbing – Kerrville TX. We hope the information in this article can help you to make an informed decision when it comes to buying and installing a water heater for your home.