Three Options for Water Heater Installation
Most water heaters last about 10 years and are expensive enough that most people can’t swap them out without financially planning ahead. Homeowners will have to live awhile with whatever they decide. When a water heater finally fails, it can force homeowners to make big decisions more quickly than they would like.
For these reasons, it's a good idea to understand the options for water heaters before an emergency occurs. Here are three decisions that homeowners must make when considering water heater installation, along with the pros and cons of each.
Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters are a common choice for heating water in the home. In fact, they are the most-installed type of storage water heater across the US. A gas water heater has a large tank that holds water.
A powerful burner heats the water in the tank to a certain setpoint to be ready for use. Because these burners produce so much heat, a gas water heater can recover its temperature more quickly when the demand for hot water increases. More hot water is available, and people in the family will have to wait less time for the tank to heat up when hot water is depleted.
One of the main drawbacks of gas water heaters is the danger. Natural gas can be hazardous, and some homeowners don’t want to take the risk. Gas water heaters are also generally more short-lived than other options. While they are cheaper to operate month to month, savvy homeowners may look to save money long-term with a longer-lasting option.
Electric Water Heater
The second most popular choice for water heaters is electric storage water heaters. These are often found in homes that are only powered by electricity, so the builders don’t have to install natural gas or propane infrastructure. This can save money on the construction cost of the home, but it also increases the cost of monthly electricity bills because the heating elements in the water tank of an electric water heater consume so much power.
Because the heating elements heat the water more slowly, the water heater's total capacity will be less. However, this reduces the tank's expansion and contraction cycles, reducing overall wear and tear and improving longevity.
Tankless Water Heater
The latest development in hot water technology is the tankless water heater. This type of heater doesn’t have a tank to store heated water. Instead, it relies on powerful burners or heating elements to produce hot water as needed.
Flow sensors within the unit can detect when hot water is needed and cycle the burners on immediately. The burners will continue to operate until demand ceases, meaning they can produce endless hot water.
While tankless water heaters cost more upfront, they can lower the cost of producing hot water by up to 30%. This saves money while giving homes more access to hot water exactly when needed. Additionally, tankless water heaters have longer lifespans than storage water heaters.
About Apple Valley Plumbing Company
Apple Valley Plumbing Company can help homeowners choose the perfect water heater for their needs. Whether it’s for water heater replacement or a new construction, they help homeowners carefully consider their options. Call today for water heater services in Apple Valley, MN.
