If you’re in the market for a new water heater, it’s important to carefully weigh all your options with a professional plumber before you start shopping. This is one of the most significant purchases you can make for your home, as it affects your hot water supply and energy usage. As such, you need a model that will provide the highest efficiency and performance. There are several types of systems available, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. To help you decide which water heater is most suitable for your household, below is an overview of some of the most popular options.

4 Water Heater Types to Consider

1. Storage Tank

Traditional storage tank water heaters typically hold 20 to 80 gallons of pre-heated water and tend to be the most affordable to install and repair. However, they take up quite a bit of space and can waste energy through heat loss, causing utility bills to increase. It’s also easy to run out of hot water when the supply is used for an extended period of time, and their life expectancy is on the lower end at 10-15 years. However, it stores water that’s constantly heated, so your shower will warm up fast.  

2. Solar 

The sun’s energy is used to power solar water heaters, which store heated water in a tank. In turn, these systems are energy-efficient and offer considerable savings on operating costs. Although, they usually require a backup system to work on cloudy days. The investment in a solar unit can take up to 30 years to recoup. However, there are often tax subsidies available from the government, and you’ll be protecting the environment.  

3. Tankless 

Also referred to as on-demand water heaters, tankless systems only heat water when it’s needed. This means they produce an unlimited supply of hot water and consume less energy, thus reducing operating costs. Additionally, they can last up to 20 years when properly maintained, and they’re small enough for a plumber to simply mount on the wall. Their biggest disadvantage is the initial price of the unit and installation. However, the energy-saving benefits make it a worthwhile investment. 

4. Heat Pump

A hybrid heat pump water heater draws heat from the air to warm up water. This is one of the most energy-efficient systems, and it can generally supply hot water to a household faster than a conventional electric model. The downside is they have higher upfront costs, and plumbers must install them in an area that remains 40-90 degrees year-round. Like the tankless option, the energy-savings will quickly add up, making it a solid investment.  

For expert advice on selecting the right water heater, discuss your options with a knowledgeable plumber at Empire Heating & Air Conditioning. They’ll take the time to carefully assess your needs and determine which model will deliver the best results. The locally owned and operated company offers homeowners throughout Monroe County, NY, a range of high-quality products and more than five decades of industry experience. Call (585) 325-6768 to schedule a same-day installation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.