What You Need to Know Before Selecting a New Water Heater
When it’s time to upgrade your home’s water heater, you want to make sure you have the right fit for your wants and needs. With many brands, makes, models and sizes to choose from, it can be overwhelming! Apex Plumbing is here to help with a breakdown of everything you need to know before choosing a new water heater.
This blog will help you understand your options, evaluate your needs and choose a unit capable of meeting your home’s water demands. Keep reading to learn expert tips and tricks that give you the confidence you need to make the right choice!
Understanding Your Options
When it comes to water heaters, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Traditional tank style, energy-efficient tankless—each type has its own set of advantages and considerations. Tank and tankless are the most common styles, but what are the differences?
Storage Tank Water Heaters
What are tank water heaters? Hot water tank systems are a common, reliable choice for many homeowners. Water is heated and stored in the tank and then circulated through your home for use. Once the tank is nearly empty, it will restart the process of heating and filling. They typically use either gas or electricity and can last up to 10-15 years.
Why choose a tank water heating system? Many homeowners choose tank-style water heaters for their low upfront costs, low maintenance needs and varying tank sizes. These units are a classic, budget-friendly option that can be sized to your home’s water demands.
Tankless Water Heaters
What are tankless water heaters? These systems work just like you would expect. They eliminate the need for a large water tank and instead heat water on demand. When you run a hot shower or turn the water on to do the dishes, the unit heats water within minutes and delivers it to the tap. They typically run on gas or electricity and can last up to 15-20 years.
Why choose a tankless water heating system? These systems are usually an upgrade for homeowners looking to replace an outdated tank water heater. Tankless units offer unlimited hot water, greater energy efficiency, low operating costs and longer lifespan. These units are also space-saving and run less risk of corrosion that tanks face.
Assessing Your Hot Water Needs
One of the most important things to decide on before installing a new water heater is your home’s water demand. Ask yourself a few basic questions:
- How many people live in your home?
- What is your hot water usage like?
- Are you aiming for maximum energy efficiency?
Determining how much hot water your home needs will help you narrow down the options. If you have a big home and a big family, you may choose a tank style to ensure there is enough hot water for concurrent showers and laundry. If your home doesn’t use a significant amount of hot water every day, you may choose a tankless style to cut down on monthly costs.
Factors to Consider
Water usage isn’t the only thing to think over, though. With so many different options, you have the power to get exactly what you need, within your budget. Here are some key items to factor into your decision:
- Energy efficiency ratings
- Fuel type (electricity, gas, etc.)
- Maintenance requirements
- Lifespan and warranty
- Budget and financing options
Cost plays a major role for homeowners in choosing a new water heater. With storage tanks, you may pay less upfront but more down the road. With tankless models, you may enjoy significant energy savings that offset upfront costs.
Take advantage of cost savings where you can! Many plumbers offer convenient financing options to ensure you don’t settle for a unit that meets your budget but not your needs. Look into warranty offers that protect your investment and alleviate repair and replacement costs down the road.
The Benefits of Working With a Plumber
Knowledge is power, but it can still be a lot to sort through. When in doubt, always work with a plumber to assess your needs and guide you in the right direction. Plumbers know the ins and outs of what it takes to deliver consistently hot water everywhere you need it.
Before you consult with a plumber, you will benefit from having a general understanding of your options and preferences. Ask questions, voice any concerns and break down any uncertainties. They are the experts, after all, and they are happy to help.
At the end of the day, a trusted plumber should have your needs and wants at the front of the conversation. They will help determine your home’s needs to find the right size, style and brand of water heater. They will assist from start to finish, ensuring you have the right fit and proper installation for years of success.
Putting It All Together
Here is a quick recap of everything to consider before choosing a new water heater:
- Note the pros and cons of storage tank vs tankless water heaters.
- Evaluate your home’s water needs to determine the best style.
- Consider factors like energy efficiency, fuel type and lifespan.
- Work with a plumber to answer questions, apply for financing and schedule installation.
Apex Plumbing Is Here to Make Your Water Heater Upgrade a Breeze
Ready for an upgrade? Apex Plumbing is here to help in the Tampa, Clearwater and St. Pete areas! We will walk you through water heater options, financing and convenient installation that works around your schedule. Contact our team online to get started or give us a call today at (727) 285-8559 !
