If you’re in the market for a new water heater, you may be overwhelmed by the many possibilities. First, bear in mind that it’s best to replace the unit as soon as it’s recommended by a plumber, or when you recognize that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. You’ll avoid an unpleasant loss of hot water by acting fast. But what’s the best way to select the right one? Here are some tips to steer you in the right direction.

A Guide to Choosing the Right Water Heater

1. Determine the Needed Size

Consider the efficacy of your current water heater. If you’re ready to replace it because it didn’t produce enough heat, it may be time to upgrade to a larger unit. That’s also important if you’re planning to expand your family and anticipate your need for hot water will increase. If you’re considering a storage tank heater, you’ll need to focus on both its capacity and its recovery rate, or the quantity of water it’s capable of heating in an hour. The more people in your home, the larger the tank you’ll need. Otherwise, a tankless heater heats water on demand and takes up less space in the home.

2. Focus on Efficiency

Given how many appliances use hot water, it’s worth purchasing an energy-efficient water heater that will help you save on your monthly bills. If that’s a particular concern, your home and budget will benefit from a tankless heater that only utilizes energy when you turn on a hot water tap. According to the United States Department of Energy, those savings can amount to over $100 a year when you select a model that is ENERGY STAR®-certified. They also have a longer life expectancy—approximately 20 years, compared to about 12 years for a standard tank model.  

3. Consider Your Budget

Finally, think about how much you want to spend on your water heater. Although tankless water heaters cost more than conventional models with tanks, they last longer and use less energy overall. This equates to lower costs in the long run. That said, a traditional tank water heater is far more economical from an immediate standpoint, and tankless models can easily cost more than twice as much. Standard tank units also take less time to install, so you’ll save on labor costs, too.

Homeowners throughout Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, AL, trust in the plumbers at GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store for all of their maintenance, repair, and installation needs. If it’s time to upgrade your water heater, you can trust the team to install a tank or tankless model that best meets your family’s needs. They can help with other residential plumbing services, too, including toilet repairs and sewer line cleaning. Visit the hardware retail store online to learn more about their products and services, or call them at (251) 974-5630.