Hot Water Heaters: Frequently Asked Questions

Steamy hot showers turn cold if your water heater is not large enough to meet needs.

Water heaters are expensive appliances, yet they typically last about 10 to 15 years, according to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension website. It is important to know what questions to ask the salesman when looking at the various types of water heaters. Selecting the right one for the needs of your family ensures that you have hot water when necessary.

What Types of Water Heaters are Available?

Four basic types of hot water heaters are available. They are storage, tankless, solar and electric heat pump heaters. The storage type is the most common, yet not the most efficient, according to the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension website. This is because it keeps the large tank of water heated all the time, not just when necessary. The tankless version heats water only when necessary and generally lasts five to 10 years longer than storage types. It tends to be more expensive, but saves money on utility bills. Solar water heaters preheat the water before sending it to a conventional water heater. Outdoor panels allow the sun to heat the water. Although they cost more initially, they can save you 50 to 80 percent on your water heating costs. Electric pump water heaters are quite efficient because they do not use electricity or fuel to generate the heat. The only energy use is in circulating the water. They use heat from the ground, air or another source to make the water hot. Heat pumps are wise choices for homeowners with damp basements or for those who live in warm climates. They can also dehumidify and cool the air inside the home.

What Factors to Consider?

Your budget, the life expectancy and the warranty on the heater are some factors you should consider when buying a hot water heater. Other considerations are the fuel sources available in your home, your family's hot water needs, the compatibility with your home and how energy efficient the water heater is that you are considering. Roof considerations are important when choosing a solar water heater. It must be sturdy with shingles that are in good condition, south-facing and receive direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. year round.

How to Determine Size?

Storage water heaters list the First Hour Rating on the label. It is important to match the FHR with the needs of your family. The rating tells how much water it can supply in your home per hour. An Energy Label Guide on the unit lists the FHR. For a household with two people, a rating of 45 to 55 gallons is an acceptable size. Households with three people need a rating of 55 to 65 gallons and four people 65 to 75 gallons. A household with five people needs 75 to 85 gallons, whereas 85 to 100 is recommended for a household with six people and 100 gallons or more for seven people or larger households. Other considerations are if you have teenagers in your home, a large bathtub, two full baths or an over-sized whirlpool bath. Tankless water heaters are wise options for vacation homes or small house, since they take up little space. They may be unsuitable for households where hot water is necessary for multiple purposes at one time, although some models can supply hot water for a whole house.

Are Energy Efficient Models the Best Choice?

Energy efficiency models are useful in large households or those where family members use a great deal of water. They are also a wise choice for anyone who wishes to save energy, thus helping the environment and reducing your utility bill. The Energy Factor is on the label of the water heater. Factors range from zero to one and the closer the number is to one, the more energy saving you will reap.

References

• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension; Choosing a New Water Heater; Jorge H. Atiles, PhD.; Jonathan Laing; July 2006
• Energy Star: Water Heaters, Solar for Consumers