May 27/2022

How to Choose A Water Heater

Water heater technology has undergone numerous advancements in the past decade, enhancing efficiency and performance. According to the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act of 2015, maintaining high-efficiency units for various residential tank types like gas, electric, tankless, and oil water heaters can save thousands of dollars in the long run. Aside from efficiency, several other factors to consider, like fuel type, size of the unit, heating method, upfront cost, and maintenance complexity. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we aim to help you cut through the clutter by providing you with essential questions to help guide your decision.

Water Heater Types: Which is Right for You?

Water heater technology offers customers a range of options to meet their specifications and needs. The most common type is conventional water heaters, which keep a hot water reservoir on standby. While these units allow for instant hot water on demand, it is bound to lose heat if nobody is using the water, adding to the utility bill due to constant reheating.

Tankless water heaters have gained traction because they provide heat water on demand without the need for a reservoir. This alleviates the inconvenience of standby heat loss, saving energy and the cost of utility bills. However, households with a high demand for hot water can overwhelm the system, so we recommend targeting use points to solve this problem.

What Fuel is Right for You?

The type of fuel used to heat water is limited to the unit available, but there are still several options suited for various household needs. Homeowners need to consider some of the factors when looking for the ideal unit, electricity, natural gas, fuel oil, solar energy, propane, and even geothermal energy. As the cost of fuel is predicted to go higher, finding a water heater that’s highly efficient and matches the needs of your household can be incredibly valuable. Hiring a plumber for water heater installation can help you make an informed decision without compromising your water heater fuel choice efficiency.

What Size Water Heater Do I Need?

The appropriate water heater size for your home depends on the size of your home and the type of unit that supports your hot water needs. While storage is a vital consideration, you need to check for the first-hour rating (FHR), which gives the amount of water it can deliver during a busy hour. The most effective way of determining if a unit’s FHR is sufficient for your household is to take the total number of people and add one, then allot twelve gallons for each to find out the minimum FHR. Most units have the FHR listed on the yellow energy guide, helping you determine if a particular unit size is ideal for your house.

How Do I Choose the Most Efficient Water Heater?

Once you have established your water heater’s FHR, seek out the highest energy factor (EF) rating without breaking the bank. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we can do all the heavy lifting and calculations necessary to ensure you have the most efficient unit. Contact us today and schedule an appointment with the experts. We guarantee exceptional water heater installation and maintenance at a competitive price.