Are you considering changing the water heater in your Oahu home? According to Air-O-Smith, the island’s leading water heater repair and replacement experts, you have many options, including solar, electric, and gas water heaters. Depending on your household needs, one of their knowledgeable water heater technicians can help you find the perfect fit.

If your broken water heater is on its last legs or you are considering switching to a new system altogether, here are the main differences between solar, electric, and gas water heaters:

• Solar Water Heaters: On the sunny island of Oahu, solar water heaters are a popular and cost-effective option. There are few drawbacks to solar technology when you live in one of the sunniest climates in the nation. Solar water heating systems also don’t have many moving parts and thus require little maintenance. In addition, the water heater technicians from Air-O-Smith offer a six-year parts warranty and two-year labor warranty on all new installations.

• Electric Water Heaters: There are three main electric water heater types to choose from: conventional heaters, which require an insulated tank and can also be gas-fired, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters, which transfer heat from the air to warm up water. Generally, the most efficient types are heat pumps and conventional heaters—with heat pumps being particularly useful in the warm climate of Hawaii. Tankless water heaters work well for people who don’t use a lot of hot water all at once but at different times.

• Gas Water Heaters: Many conventional water heating systems use gas, which is usually cheaper than electricity, though not necessarily more efficient. Gas water heaters use the heat generated from burning fuel, typically natural gas. Because of their fast recovery rate—the gallons of hot water they can produce in an hour—gas water heaters are best-suited for large families.

Air-O-Smith provides water heater repair and replacement throughout the island of Oahu. Based in Mililani, these local water heater technicians can be reached for a free estimate by calling (808) 623-9636. For more information, visit them online.