Water heaters come in a variety of sizes, and choosing the best one for your home can seem difficult. That’s why it pays to discuss this issue with an HVAC contractor or plumbing service expert. Typically, these types of specialists also repair and install hot water heaters. They’re very familiar with these appliances and can provide you with valuable insights to help you make the right decision.

What an HVAC Contractor Knows About Water Heater Size

Unless you work for a plumbing company, it’s likely that you don’t fully understand what size water heater is right for a typical household. That’s understandable because assessing the proper size for your needs has less to do with the amount of space it will take up, and more to do with the amount of hot water it will supply. Instead of focusing on the physical space the appliance will require (though this is a necessary consideration as well), you should focus more on how many people live in your household and how much hot water you tend to use on a regular basis.

Fortunately, this is easier than you may expect. An HVAC contractor will suggest that you find a water heater’s first-hour rating, or FHR, which is usually listed on one of its labels. The FHR is the amount of hot water it can provide in an hour of use. For each member of your household, you should generally allow 12 gallons of water. So, if there are five people living in your home, you want a hot water heater with an FHR of 60 gallons.

If you tend to use more hot water than the average person, imagine that there is an additional member of the household to find the water heater with the right FHR. This simple method makes choosing the right size easy.

Looking for a reliable plumbing service in La Crosse, WI? Get in touch with Niebuhr Plumbing & Heating. Contact them online to learn more about scheduling service, or call (608) 782-1700.