When the time comes to replace your water heater, sizing your new model appropriately is essential. Too small, and everyone in the family will be starting the day with cold showers. Too large, and your energy costs will increase, along with your carbon footprint. Selecting the right size water heater will depend upon a variety of factors, not least of which is the type of water heater you wish to purchase.
Tankless Water Heaters
One of the newest and most popular advances in home water heating is the tankless water heater. Instead of heating water and maintaining the temperature indefinitely until the tank is emptied, tankless water heaters raise the temperature of water on demand, providing a steady supply as water passes through the unit. Sizing depends upon peak usage in your household, and can vary from one manufacturer to the next.
Storage Tank Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters hold a limited supply of heated water within the tank until the water is used. When the tank is depleted, the rate at which hot water is regained is referred to as the “recovery rate.” For high-demand households, high recovery rate is important. These models are also designated by the amount of water, measured by gallons, the tank will hold. For households of one to two, a thirty-gallon tank is often recommended. Forty tank models are typically suggested for families of two to three, fifty gallons for households of three to four, and eighty gallons for families of more than five individuals. These recommendations are based upon the typical electric water heater, with figures varying slightly for natural gas and propane models.
The most effective way to choose an appropriately-sized water heater for your household is to work with a licensed and experienced plumbing professional who can help you make the best determination. Before you select a new hot water heater, contact a plumber in your area in order to make an informed decision.
Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing
