Buying a new water heater for your home means that you can choose from a number of options. Not only can you choose from various energy-efficient models, but you can also select different kinds, including some that use newer technology.
With any water heater, there are several things you need to consider. The cost of fuel, for instance, should help you decide whether you want to get electric, propane, or gas water heater, and you also need to think about how many people and appliances are going to need the hot water. More people require larger water heaters than one or two people.
Conventional Water Heaters
A conventional water heater is the kind that you are most accustomed to seeing. It is powered by either electricity or gas, and they will typically hold between 20 and 80 gallons of water. Before you buy, compare the energy efficiency level and annual operating costs in order to save money.
The amount of insulation on a conventional water heater will determine how long the water can stay hot. Insufficient insulation means that you will use more energy to keep it hot. It is worth the extra money to get thicker insulation.
Tankless Water Heaters
If you want to save money on keeping your water hot, a tankless water heater is the way you want to go. These are also called demand water heaters, and they heat the water as needed. There is no water tank involved. This type of system is more expensive to install, but will save on energy costs because there is no water to keep hot. They can be used for one room, or to heat water for the whole house, but your home may need more than one unit. Ventilation will also be needed.
As its name suggests, the water in a solar water heater is heated by the sun. This type of unit is most popular in the Southwestern part of the United States. There are two different kinds: active, which uses pumps and controls, and inactive, which does not have them.
This type of water heater is for those who have heat pumps. This type moves heat from one place to another - from the surrounding air to the water heater.
The installation of a water heater should always be performed by a professional. There is potential danger if it is installed incorrectly.
Not sure what water heater works for your Ruston home? Call Mark Johnson Plumbing at (318) 257-6167, and get the best advice from the professionals.
