Access to hot water for cooking, bathing, and washing dishes is imperative in any home. If your hot water heater is on its last leg, the process of selecting a new appliance can be overwhelming without the help of a licensed plumbing contractor. Here are a few tips to make the process simpler. 

3 Pointers for Choosing the Right Hot Water Heater

1. Consider Size

When comparing models, the size of your home and the number of people in your household are influential factors, as you’ll need a unit that can successfully provide enough hot water for your family. If square footage is at a premium, a wall-mounted tankless hot water heater that warms water when needed—as opposed to a tank version that keeps a reserve available—is an excellent way to save space. Keep in mind, tankless heaters have a limited flow rate due to their on-demand manner of producing hot water.

Storage tanks, on the other hand, are available in various sizes, so you can find the right unit for your specific needs. Before selecting your appliance, talk to a licensed plumbing contractor about your average consumption rate to avoid investing in something that’s too small or too large.

2. Prioritize Efficiency

Hot water is one of the most significant energy expenses for any home. Finding an efficient option is an excellent way to save on monthly utility bills. Since tankless units do not have to maintain heat in large quantities, they use roughly 20–30% less energy. If you live in a sunny region, a solar heater could successfully provide hot water at little to no energy cost. 

3. Review Your Budget

Unit prices, installation fees, and life expectancies of hot water heaters vary significantly from model to model. Storage tank heaters are the least expensive and typically last 10 to 15 years. Tankless versions last closer to 20 years. While they are more energy-efficient and perfect for smaller homes that don’t require hot water at multiple points simultaneously, they are more expensive to purchase and install. Solar options require minimal energy but are expensive to install and need full sun exposure year-round to be effective. 

 

Emery Plumbing has been Hilo, HI’s favorite licensed plumbing contractor since 2001. With a reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction, you can trust these commercial and residential plumbing experts to tackle any job, no matter how large or small. To schedule an appointment for your hot water heater, call their office today at (808) 960-8828 or visit them online for a closer look at their products and services.