With technological advancements in water heating, you may have more choices than you think. We will touch on the most common water heaters available today.
Electric Water Heaters
Standard Electric Water Heater:
These are the most common in homes today. They have a very simple design, the water stored in the tank is heated by one or two elements which are turned on and off by thermostats mounted on the tank.
Hybrid Electric Water Heater:
Like a standard water heater, these hybrids have two electric elements in the tank. It also has a heat pump built in that provides heat to the water. In most cases, the heat pump will provide adequate hot water for your home and the electric elements will turn on during high demand times to assist with hot water production. These hybrid water heaters are approximately 4 times more efficient than a standard electric water heater.
Lifetime Warranty Water Heater:
These water heaters function the same as a standard electric water heater, two elements controlled by thermostats. These have a seamless plastic liner that prevents corrosion and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. These water heaters are covered by warranty for as long as you own your home. This could be the last water heater you ever buy.
Gas Fired Water Heaters
Standard Atmospheric Water Heater:
This water heater is a simple design with one burner underneath the tank and a tin chimney that vents the flue gases outdoors. The efficiency of these water heaters is approximately 60%.
Power Vented Water Heater:
This water heater has a single burner under the tank and is vented using approved plastic piping. The plastic vent pipe can either exit the home through the roof or through the sidewall of the home. These water heaters have a fan mounted on top of the tank with the plastic venting attached to it. Power vented water heaters are generally rated at approximately 62% efficient but some condensing models are available with efficiencies up to 80%.
Tankless Water Heater:
Sometimes referred to as On-Demand Water Heaters, these do not have a storage tank of water that is heated. These units are hung on the wall and take up far less room than a tank-style water heater. Tankless units only heat the water when you are using hot water and are off at all other times. A burner heats the water to the desired temperature instantly as the water passes through the unit. These units are rated at approximately 97% efficient and have a longer life expectancy than the conventional tank-type. Rebates are generally available when installing a tankless water heater.
Summary
If you need to replace your water heater, you have options to consider. Give us a call at Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas and we can help explain your options and provide a water heater that best suits your needs.
If you have questions or would like assistance, give our professionals at Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas a call today.
