Residential water heaters have evolved significantly over the last decade. Modern water heaters feature state-of-the-art technology, delivering a cost-efficient operation. Older models were oftentimes referred to as “energy-hogging appliances.” Fortunately, this is no longer the case with the soaring cost of residential electricity. A&E NYC Plumbing
The right water heater will offer maximum energy efficiency, quick hot water generation, and optimum hot water storage.
Tankless Water Heater – A hot water heater without a tank, is this true? Yes, modern residential water heaters are available without a storage tank. The unit features an on-demand operation that generates water almost immediately when the tap is switched on.
The tankless water heater, also known as a demand-type water heater, is ideal for small apartments, flats, condominiums, mobile homes, RVs, and duplexes. After years of advanced research, tankless units are now being installed in commercial settings. Medical centers, schools, bookshops, government entities, supermarkets, and big-box stores are turning to tankless water heaters.
It is questionable if tankless water heaters are ready for industrial settings. Manufacturers are continuously researching new technologies to make their tankless models more efficient for industrial businesses.
Heat Pump Water Heater – The heat pump water heater is slated as one of the highest efficiency models to date. The traditional unit works by generating heat to provide hot water. The heat pump water heater does quite the opposite by moving heat from place to place to generate hot water. Consumers have reported slight decreases in their energy usage after the first month of operation.
Conventional Storage Water Heater – The model features an onboard tank for hot water storage. Before a conventional storage water heater is installed in a hot, a plumber must determine the average monthly usage. Modern homes utilize an average of 63 gallons (240 liters) of hot water per day. Monthly usage of hot water would be less than 1,900 gallons (7,192 liters).
A conventional storage water heater produces adequate hot water for a family of four. When family members and friends are visiting, they may not be able to keep up.
Solar Water Heater – The unit utilizes heat from the sun to generate hot water. Consumers in the process of building green homes should definitely consider solar water heaters. Reducing the carbon footprint could not be easier than with a solar-powered water heater.
Indirect Water Heater – The unit operates on a residential space heating system. Indirect water heaters are more commonly known as tankless coil water heaters.
Factors To Consider When Shopping For A Modern Water Heater
- Price – The tankless unit is one of the most expensive types of water heater. The conventional storage water heater costs between $500 and $3,500 for multi-story homes. The tankless solar water heater can cost as much as $13,000 or as little as $1,700. It is easy to see why consumers choose the conventional unit more often than the tankless unit.
- Size – A licensed plumber can help determine the appropriate size of a water heater for your home. Keep track of your daily usage of hot water to ensure the water heater is properly sized for your home.
- Fuel Type – Most water heaters are powered by electricity. Less common models are powered by solar, natural gas, geothermal energy, propane, and fuel oil.
- Energy Efficiency – Most modern water heaters operate efficiently. The top brands utilize less energy which equals more cost savings.