The average water heater runs for around 12 years before the unit starts to fail. When leaks and flooding start to occur, you will know you’re past due to replace the appliance. If you’re ready to purchase a new tank, take a look at the list below for tips on finding the right size for your home.

3 Ways to Choose the Right Water Heater Size

1. Estimate Household Water Usage

To properly size your water heater, you will need to estimate the amount of hot water your household uses during peak hours. The size tank you need directly depends on the amount of hot water consumption in your home. However, there are general guidelines to help narrow down the sizing. If there are one to two people in your home, a 30- to 40-gallon tank is recommended. As the number of people increases, so should the size of the tank by 10 gallons.

2. Check the Old Appliance

If you’re replacing an old water heater, odds are that you can choose the same tank size for the replacement. This should hold true if the previous unit was professionally installed, there have been no additions to your household, and the hot water usage is generally consistent.

3. Consult Your Plumber

You should consult with a plumbing service before purchasing a water heater. Your local plumber is trained and experienced in installing many different types and brands of water heaters. If you have higher or lower than average hot water usage, they can calculate the right size tank to help you save money.

When you need an expert plumber, contact the professionals at  Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service in Kalispell, MT. Their experienced team is ready to assist you with 24/7 emergency plumbing, water heater installation, septic system maintenance, and drain repair. To schedule an appointment, call (406) 752-1244 or visit them online to learn more about their commercial and residential plumbing services.