Water heaters are a vital piece of equipment for every home. During the cold season, most American households rely on their water heaters for hot water to be used for cooking, bathing, cleaning or washing, and space heating.
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If you are on the market for a new water heater, it pays to know the different key factors to consider before making a final purchase. Read below for more details on how to find the right water heater for your home.
Cost
Do not forget to set a budget before you go out to shop for a new water heater. According to HomeAdvisor, a new water heater installation can cost you between $811 and $1,566, or an average of $1,176, including the unit and labor. The installation cost varies depending on the type of water you would like to install, whether a tankless or storage-type water heater. Aside from the upfront costs, it would also be a good idea to estimate the yearly operating cost of the type of water heater you consider buying.
Location
Do you have enough space to store a large hot water storage tank? Answering this question will help you avoid buying a water heater that does not fit into your existing space. Most homeowners install their water heaters in the basement and washroom. If you do not have that much available space in your home, you can opt to buy a tankless water heater. With its smaller size and compact design, installing a tankless unit can help you save a tremendous amount of space compared to conventional storage-tank water heaters.
Energy efficiency
Replacing your water heater should result in lower energy bills and not the other way round. Before you purchase a unit, be sure to check its energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of your home’s energy use. Replacing your old water heater with a newer, high-efficiency model will make a big difference on your next energy bill.
Size
Size is a very important consideration when buying a new water heater for your home. A properly sized water heater will not only meet your household’s hot water needs but will also work more efficiently. To size a tankless water heater, you will need to determine the flow rate and the temperature rise you will need for its application, according to Energy.gov.
Life expectancy
It would be wise to invest in a water heater that can maintain its efficiency for many years. Experts say that a tankless water heater has a life expectancy of more than 20 years. That is double the lifespan of a traditional water heater that lasts about 12 years.
Let the pros handle your water heater installation
Do you need a new water heater for your home? If yes, make sure to schedule a professional installation service before the heating season begins. You can get the most benefits from a new water heater installation if you work with a licensed and experienced plumbing team today.
