Water heaters are plumbing devices that heat cold water, making sure you have access to warm or hot water for whatever you may need in your home. From washing clothes and dishes to showers and sinks, these things are all reliant on water heaters to get the job done. That’s why it’s important to think things through when making a purchase.
Now, you may think water heaters are relatively modern, and you are right, they are. But did you know that in ancient Roman times, they were called hypocausts? These were empty spaces under the floor of ancient buildings, where hot air was sent above to heat the bath.
Nowadays, things are not that simple. Water heaters and technology have evolved and there’s a lot to choose from. Together we will check out types of water heaters, and what the best choice for your needs is.
Tank Water Heaters
These are more affordable and the most common type of water heater. It features a large storage tank where heated water is stored until needed. It’s budget-friendly, and widely available. The insulated tank can hold anywhere from 30 to 80 gallons of water, depending on its size of course.
It’s usually powered by electricity or natural gas, some models but some models may use liquid propane or oil. When cold water enters the tank, it is then heated to a certain temperature. Once it reaches this desired temperature, it stops actively heating. It only starts again when you use the hot water, or when the water cools down.
Tankless Water Heaters
These are best for immediate cold water heating in homes with limited space. This type of water heater is a very fast one, as it rapidly heats cold water. It does so through super-heated coils and provides an endless supply of hot water. This means you can go wild with the water, but please make sure to be efficient and try to save water. It can help you save money, save water for later use and conserve energy.
A tankless water heater is compact and it is perfect for condos, small apartments, or townhouses with limited space. The system can be fueled by natural gas or electricity, with natural gas options being more efficient. These heaters can actually save energy because it heats the water only when you need it. However, it’s important to note that tankless water heaters can be pricier to purchase and install compared to the more traditional tank water heaters.
Point-of-Use Water Heaters
The point-of-use water heaters are a modest yet vital part of heaters, for specific purposes like showers or maybe kitchen sinks. These systems most often have a small storage tank, ensuring a limited amount of hot water is ready for you at any time. You can also find tankless point-of-use water heaters, which are great because they ensure continuous hot water for showers. This means you won’t have to worry about hot water running out when you’re in the middle of a shower.
However, it’s best to still be cautious and try to preserve water wherever you can.
Solar Water Heater
This type of water heater is best for people who care about the environment and want to make an eco-friendly choice. It reduces utility costs because it gets the energy from the sun. These heaters have an insulated tank that is similar to more conventional types but they collect the solar energy with solar panels and then convert it into electricity to heat the water. They can be roof-mounted or installed elsewhere. Just because it is solar does not mean you will run out of hot water, because there are emergency backup systems that run on fuel or gas, ensuring you never run out of hot water. And while it may cost more to install these, they have less energy costs yearly, so you end up saving long-term and helping the environment.
Hybrid Water Heater
This type of water heater is a blend of all the elements. It uses a heat pump system to extract warmth from the ground and air for water heating. This naturally reduces power consumption by up to 60% compared to conventional tank water heaters. It has a big storage tank and a heat pump that is attached at the top. This means it will take up more space, but they are great for year-round heating in smaller homes. However, they might not be that good for colder climates that have a high hot water demand. If you are interested in using a hybrid water heater for your home, you can contact a trusted heat pump hot water heater installation sacramento ca professionals.
Before making a choice…
Consider your living space. If your home is bigger, then you can opt for a hybrid option that takes a little more space. If you are living in a smaller space, a tankless water heater might be the best option for you.
It’s good to also make a fuel-type choice that aligns with your personal values. Whether it’s gas, electricity, or solar for a more eco-conscious choice. Try to check the capacity of the tank water heaters if that’s what you go for. Typically, 60 gallons should do the trick for a 4-person family home, and you can add 10 gallons for each person.
If you are still unsure which one to choose, you can try getting professional help of course. Simply getting a plumber’s opinion for the right water heater, or hiring professional contractors such as water heater technicians can help you a ton when making a choice. Professionals will especially know what the perfect water heater is based on your individual needs and preferences.
When you purchase water heaters, make sure to check for warranties, as it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry!
To sum it all up…
You need to embrace the luxury of hot water while at the same time balancing practicality, budget and space constraints. We hope this article will help you make the right choice for a water heater that will make you feel comfortable and is aligned with what you value most.
