what should i look for when buying a new water heater

^{5 Things you Need to Know Before Buying a Water Heater}

1. Fuel Source. The most common residential water heaters run with gas or electricity as their fuel source. ...
2. Energy Efficiency. No matter which fuel source you choose, a water heater can be the third largest energy consumer in your home.
3. Storage Type. Tank storage water heaters remain the most popular option in the United States. ...
4. Storage Capacity. Most tank water heaters are evaluated by how many gallons they hold. ...
5. Space Required. Another factor to consider for your selection is the available space. If your area does not accommodate a standard-sized water heater, there are alternative options.

What should I consider when buying a new water heater?

When selecting a new water heater, it's important to consider what fuel type or energy source you will use, including its availability and cost. The fuel used by a water heating system will not only affect annual operation costs but also the water heater's size and energy efficiency.

How do I know when to replace a water heater?

Measure the space. Learn When to Replace a Water Heater by reading this article. First, find out what type of fuel source you have in the home. Here are the differences among electric, gas/propane and hybrid fuel types.

What should I look for when buying a tankless water heater?

Because of increased insulation and other efficiency improvements, some newer models may be wider and/or taller than your old water heater. Tankless water heaters, of course, don't hold much water, so the number to look for is the gallons-per-minute rating (GPM).

How are tank water heaters evaluated?

Most tank water heaters are evaluated by how many gallons they hold. The first-hour rating and the gallons-per-minute rating for storage-tank water heaters tell how quickly water is heated and delivered over a period of time. On-demand water heaters do not hold any water, but the gallons-per-minute rating indicates the “capacity” of flow.

What brand of water heater is the most reliable?

Best & Most Reliable Water Heater Brands in the WorldA.O. Smith. ... Rheem. Rheem was founded in 1925 by two brothers, Donald and Richard Rheem – and with financial backing from a third brother, William. ... Kenmore. ... Bradford White. ... American Standard. ... American Water Heaters. ... Bosch. ... EcoSmart.More items...

What type of water heater lasts the longest?

tankless water heatersTank water heaters will last an average of 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last even longer, up to 20 years. There are also electric and gas water heaters that will vary in lifespan, but in general gas ones last 8-12 years, while an electric heater could last upwards of 10-15 years.

How much should I spend on a water heater?

When it stops working properly and the time comes to replace it, the average water heater replacement cost can run from anywhere from $811 to $1,566, with the national average around $1,176, depending on the type and size of the water heater.

How many years should a water heater last?

Typically a residential hot water heater lasts between 6 and 13 years. Beyond 12 years, you are on borrowed time!

What are the top five hot water heaters?

The 5 Best Water Heaters of 2022 RatingsProductForbes Advisor RatingTank SizeA.O. Smith EG12-50R55DV3.850 gallonsRheem XG50T12DU38U23.850 gallonsRheem XE50T10H45U03.850 gallonsRheem XE50T12CS55U13.750 gallons1 more row•May 16, 2022

What are the signs your hot water heater is going out?

Rust deposits or a metallic odor coming out with hot water can signal either rusty pipes or rust inside the water heater. If corrosion is eating away the metal from the inside, leaks are inevitable. Murky water from the tap can also be signs that the water heater will fail soon.

Which is better 40 or 50 gallon water heater?

50-gallon water heaters have a longer lifespan. In general, 40-gallon heaters last for about eight years, while 50-gallon heaters can last 12 years. This is because 50-gallon heaters have thicker tanks. As a result, they are less likely to develop leaks.

How much does a 40 gal water heater cost?

The national average cost range to install a 40-gallon tank water heater is $850 to $2,600, with most people paying around $1,400 for a 40-gallon gas tank water heater that is a direct replacement for an existing model.

How long does a 40-gallon water heater last?

For the most part, a 40-gallon water heater should last between 10 and 12 years. Some units come with a warranty, so you should check before buying. The following are a few signs that it may be time to replace your water heater: You are getting less hot water than normal.

Which is the best water heater for home?

Here are the best water heaters/geyser for home you can get this winter seasonHindware 3 L Instant Water Geyser. ... Hindware 25 L Storage Water Geyser. ... BAJAJ 15 L Storage Water Geyser (Popular Plus) ... V-Guard 15 L Storage Water Geyser. ... Ao Smith 25 L Storage Water Geyser. ... CROMPTON 25 L Storage Water Geyser.More items...•

Should I replace my water heater before it fails?

Unless you replace this rod every few years, your water heater could begin taking a beating. If the tank rusts through, it could fail catastrophically and flood your home. You can avoid this disaster by replacing your water heater before it fails.

Can a hot water tank last 20 years?

A Water Heater Should Last Between 8- 20 Years Depending on the Type. The length of your water heater's life will depend on not only how well you take care of it, but what kind of water heater it is.

How long is the warranty on a water heater?

Warranty: Coverage for water heaters typically runs three to 12 years. Though you’ll usually pay a bit more for longer-warranty models, we've found that they tend to have larger elements or burners that can speed up water heating and have thicker insulation for less heat loss. Choose a water heater with the longest warranty available.

What is the most common type of water heater?

Storage tanks are the most common type of water heater. As the name suggests, these consist of an insulated tank in which water is heated and stored until needed, then emerges from a pipe on top of the water heater.

How many gallons of water do you need for a tankless water heater?

A typical shower, for example, uses up to 2.5 GPM. Newer washers use from 7 gallons (front-loader) to 19 gallons (agitator top-loader) per wash, but older models can use up to 32 gallons per load, as indicated below.

How much efficiency does a water heater have?

As the result of recently updated efficiency standards, water heaters less than 55 gallons now have a 4 percent boost in efficiency and water heaters 55 gallons or more have efficiency gains of 25 to 50 percent, depending on the technology used—heat pump or condensing. (See water heater types, below.)

How many gallons of water does a water heater hold?

Tank water heaters typically hold 40, 50, or 55 gallons or more. The size you buy depends on the number of people living in your home and your peak water usage. A family of four, for instance, might take several showers, run the dishwasher, and wash a load or two of laundry in an average day, totaling 100 gallons of hot water or more. But that doesn’t mean that household needs a 100-gallon storage tank.#N#For storage tank water heaters, it's important to consider the first-hour rating, which is the number of gallons a water heater can deliver in an hour starting with a full tank. You’ll find the FHR on the EnergyGuide label. To calculate what FHR will work for your home, use the calculator on the Energy Saver website.#N#As the result of recently updated efficiency standards, water heaters less than 55 gallons now have a 4 percent boost in efficiency and water heaters 55 gallons or more have efficiency gains of 25 to 50 percent, depending on the technology used—heat pump or condensing. (See water heater types, below.)#N#And don't assume that a new water heater will fit where your old one was. Because of increased insulation and other efficiency improvements, some newer models may be wider and/or taller than your old water heater.

How does a tankless water heater work?

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heater. Rather than storing water, tankless water heaters use heating coils to heat the water as you need it. They’re more energy-efficient than a storage tank but provide only a limited flow of hot water per minute—about 3.5 gallons, depending on inlet water temperatures.

What is the GPM of a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters, of course, don't hold much water, so the number to look for is the gallons-per-minute rating (GPM). That’s the number that tells you how much hot water the heater can deliver over a set period of time. The higher the GPM, the more hot water the unit can deliver.

Purchasing a Water Heater

Whether you've just taken that first unexpected cold shower or simply wish to reduce your energy bill, purchasing a new hot water tank is an important task.

Water Heater Fuel Sources

First, find out what type of fuel source you have in the home. Here are the differences among electric, gas/propane and hybrid fuel types.

Types of Water Heaters

Consider the size of your family and the utilities in your area to choose the best water heater.

Water Heater Tank Capacity

Storage tank water heaters are classified by the amount of water they hold in gallons. In order to ensure that your household has enough hot water, it's important to determine how much hot water you need on average. Unless you choose a tankless water heater, you'll need a larger tank for a larger household.

Space for the Water Heater

If your space won't accommodate a standard-size water heater, there are alternatives. These options provide the same level of performance and will work with electric or gas (natural or propane) systems.

Advanced Technology

Available for electric water heaters, this keeps the upper element from burning out if the unit senses no water around it.

Accessories

There are many hot water tank accessories available to improve the safety and efficiency of your water heater.

What kind of fuel does a water heater use?

The most common residential water heaters run with gas or electricity as their fuel source. If your existing tank water heater is gas-fired, be sure to confirm whether it uses natural gas or propane. Gas water heaters generally have a higher up-front cost and require special ventilation for health and safety.

How does a water heater work?

Tank storage water heaters remain the most popular option in the United States. A storage heater operates by continually heating and storing hot water, then releasing it from the top of the tank when hot water outlet is turned on. To replace that hot water, cold water enters the bottom of the tank, ensuring that the tank is always full. Because the water is continuously heated in the tank, energy can be wasted even when no faucet is on. Newer energy efficient storage models, reduce the amount of heat loss and energy wastage.

What is the difference between a tankless water heater and a lowboy water heater?

Lowboys or short water heaters are shorter and wider than standard water heaters , allowing them to hold the same amount of water, while still fitting in areas with limited headroom. This will enable them to be installed in out-of-the-way spaces such as crawl spaces and under cabinets. Tankless water heaters also typically take up very little space compared to traditional tank options.

Is a water heater energy efficient?

Energy Efficiency. No matter which fuel source you choose, a water heater can be the third largest energy consumer in your home. Therefore, you want to select a new unit that is energy efficient if possible. Fortunately, all new water heaters have a high degree of energy efficiency to meet strict Federal energy standards.

Do water heaters hold water?

On-demand water heaters do not hold any water, but the gallons-per-minute rating indicates the “capacity” of flow. If you plan to draw hot water from multiple sources simultaneously, you may want to consider two or more units to run in parallel for adequate flow rate. 5. Space Required.

Do electric homes have higher operating costs?

However, they offset their up-front costs over time with a lower operating cost. Electric models tend to have a smaller up-front cost but typically have higher operating costs. The main thing is to know which source your home uses so that you can purchase the proper replacement. 2. Energy Efficiency.

Do tankless water heaters take up space?

Tankless water heaters also typically take up very little space compared to traditional tank options. Always carefully consider your options when referring to these five factors while choosing your next water heater installation.

How do you know if you need a new water heater?

If you see rust when you turn on the hot water, this is one of the clearest signs you need a new water heater. Rust and corrosion usually happen when the anode rod is spent and the walls of the tank are exposed to water and heat for years. If your water heater is deteriorating, it will start to rust and eventually start leaking.

How to find out when your water heater was last replaced?

Try to find out when your water heater was made. You can usually figure this out by finding the serial number and looking it up online. If your water heater is at least 10 years old, you should consider replacing it.

What does FHR mean on a water heater?

The FHR indicates the amount of hot water that the heater can dispense within the first hour of use. If you have questions about FHR or how to compare systems, give King Heating and Cooling a call. Look at the EF: The “Efficiency Factor” (EF) measures the total energy efficient of a water heater.

Why switch out water heater?

Among the benefits of these systems is that water is only heated when you turn on the faucet, rather than needing it to be heated and then stored in a tank.

How to know if a water heater is a FHR?

Instead, check the label on the heater for the First-Hour Rating (FHR). The FHR indicates the amount of hot water that the heater can dispense within the first hour of use.

What happens if your water heater leaks?

As metal heats up, it expands and it may cause the water tank to develop a small fracture. If the leaking gets worse, it may cause flooding or water damage. 5.

Why do you check the anode rod on a water heater?

Regularly checking on your water heater’s anode rod is essential in preventing the tank from rusting. This small rod consists of a steel wire surrounded by either zinc, magnesium, aluminum, or all three. The anode rod attracts the corrosive materials in your water so that the interior tank walls don’t corrode.

Knowing when to upgrade

As anyone who has dealt with a flooded basement before will tell you, the best time to replace your water heater is before you need to. If your tank-style unit is 8–10 years old or your tankless unit is 15–18 years old, it may be time for an upgrade.

Gas or electric?

Deciding between gas or electric largely depends on what is already available in your area and your home. If you don’t already have a gas line or the right electrical circuit for your desired model, be prepared for additional installation costs.

Budget considerations

As water heating accounts for up to 20% of the typical home’s energy use, it’s worth considering the operating costs as well as the initial price. Higher efficiency options may wind up saving you more in the long run, even if they cost more initially.

Types of water heaters

Storage tank The most common variety of water heater, storage tank water heaters feature a large reservoir of water that is continually heated to a set temperature by gas or electricity.

1. Get a water heater with a longer warranty period

First of all you should look at the warranty policy of the geyser. You do not want to buy an expensive water heater only to find it damaged within one years’ time. In fact, consider buying a geyser by Racold that gives you a minimum of two years warranty on all their water heaters.

2. Temperature regulation: A must-have feature

Have you ever gone for a hot water shower and felt that the water was too hot, or perhaps too cold? Well, it’s time for you to say goodbye to unsatisfactory bathing experiences. Get yourself a water heater that allows you to adjust the water temperature as per your needs.

3. Check if your geyser design complements your bathroom

While analysing the features and functionality of your water heater, the aesthetics of your geyser shouldn’t take a back seat. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you may opt for a rectangular, cylindrical or a square shaped water heater.

4. Ensure zero waiting time

Next, look for a geyser that doesn’t hold you back. From the moment you wake up to the time you hit the sack, you’re always in a hurry.

How many amps does a tankless water heater need?

Most standard tank-type electric water heaters are wired for 30 amps and 220 volts, yet, most tankless units require more than 30 amps in order to get your water hot enough. However, since the Heatworks and other tankless systems only draw power when hot water is being drawn, you will not be wasting energy heating a tank for 20-24 hours per day ...

How does a tankless water heater work?

With tankless electric water heaters, there is a direct relationship between the flow rate of a fixture (demand), the power supplied to the tankless electric water heater, and the output temperature of the hot water. The higher the flow rate, the lower the temperature (if power in remains constant). Many tankless units cannot keep up ...

What is a NAECA 3 water heater?

If you have done any online research, you have probably come across the acronym “NAECA 3”. NAECA, or the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act, regulates the energy consumption of certain major household appliances.

Do tankless shower heads run out of hot water?

The higher the flow rate, the lower the temperature (if power in remains constant). Many tankless units cannot keep up with the demands of high-flow fixtures, such as rain shower heads and spa tubs. Often, tanks run out of hot water when supplying to these high-flow fixtures as well.

Is it a big deal to buy a hot water heater?

So, purchasing a hot water heater is a big deal — there is a lot more to it than just the sticker price. Keep in mind compliance with new energy efficient standards, powering the unit, where the unit lives in your home, your groundwater temperature, and the types of fixtures you are comfortable using.

Can you run out of hot water with a tankless water heater?

Remember, with tankless, there is no preheated reservoir of water. This means you won’t run out of hot water, but you need enough power to heat the water to your desired output temperature on demand.

Do all homes have natural gas?

Almost every home has electricity, but not all homes have access to natural gas. If you only have electricity at your home, it is often cheaper to continue using that fuel source for water heating over paying to bury a propane tank or run a new natural gas line (if that is even a possibility).

What does it mean to buy a new water heater?

Buying a new water heater from a local plumbing company means more than just equipment, it means installation services , too. A plumbing professional guides you through selecting a new water heater, determines proper sizing so the new unit is able to accommodate your household’s needs, and performs reliable installation services.

Where do plumbers buy water heaters?

Plumbers purchase water heaters through industry wholesalers, distributors, or direct from the manufacturer. Through these professional channels, plumbers have access to higher quality equipment, built with more durable components than systems available through retail.

What is a plumber warranty?

Plumbers typically offer a warranty term that protects you from unexpected repair costs if an issue arises with installation work. If your system requires repairs covered under your manufacturer’s warranty, your plumber is also able to perform this work.

Why are water heaters so low in retail?

Low retail prices are often possible due to lower product quality and the use of less durable components. Water heaters available for retail purchase may use plastic valves, aluminum anode rods, less insulation, and other components not of the same quality as professional models.

Do retail employees have to consult with a plumber?

Retail employees typically do not have the detailed knowledge of plumbing systems and water heating equipment that a licensed plumber does, so you have no professional to consult when making your choice. Usually, the only information you have to go off is the product details printed on the display or online. Because retail employees rarely have ...

Do you need an expert to buy a water heater?

No Experts On-Hand. Ensuring the right selection when buying a new water heater depends on specialized knowledge, which average homeowners do not have themselves. Well, neither do retail employees, in most cases. Retail employees typically do not have the detailed knowledge of plumbing systems and water heating equipment ...

Can you go off the product details on a water heater?

Usually, the only information you have to go off is the product details printed on the display or online. Because retail employees rarely have professional plumbing experience, they also are not knowledgeable regarding the process involved to install a new water heater bought from the store.

Are you interested in a conventional or a tankless water heater?

Conventional water heaters have shorter lifespans, but cost less to install up front. A conventional heater and a tankless heater of similar size will cost approximately $1 vs 3 thousand respectively.

What size tank do you need?

The size of the tank you need if you go with a conventional water heater depends on a number of different factors. You should consider how much water you use, how many people live with you, and the size of your previous tank.

What is the warranty like?

A brand new water heater isn’t likely to have any problems, especially for the first few years of use. However, it’s still important to know about warranties before you make a purchase.

What brands should I look into?

The best way to learn about water heater brands is to ask the professional installers. They’ll have knowledge of how the different brands work that the manufacturers may not give you.

Who am I going to hire to install my water heater?

Take the time to do some research and find the best option for you. The ideal water heater installer is a local service with years of experience delivering high-quality service. Taking your time to make an informed decision will always pay off in the long run.

Fuel Source

Energy Efficiency

Storage Type

Storage Capacity

Space Required

• Another factor to consider for your selection is the available space. If your area does not accommodate a standard-sized water heater, there are alternative options. Lowboys or short water heaters are shorter and wider than standard water heaters, allowing them to hold the same amount of water, while still fitting in areas with limited headroom. Th...

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