 If you're in the market for a new hot water heater, you may have noticed that the selection has changed quite a bit in recent years. That's because, as of April 2015, all hot water heaters must meet new energy efficiency standards set by the Department of Energy. In order to meet these standards, most manufacturers have increased the size of their water heaters and added additional insulation. As a result, you may find that your hot water heater replacement or installation costs more than it did in the past. However, you can expect to see lower energy bills and longer hot water heater lifespan, so the investment is well worth it. So when it's time for a new hot water heater, be sure to choose one that meets the new DOE standards. Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you.
When To Replace Them Most water heaters give our several tell-tale signs when they need to be replaced. Age is one factor; the Department of Energy suggests that you start doing research on a new hot water heater if yours is over seven years old. If your hot water heater is leaking, or if you notice that you're just not getting as much hot water out of it as you used to, these might also be signs of failure. If your hot water heater is starting to show signs of age or wear, it's important to start researching replacement and installation options. Water heater replacement and installation can be a complex process, so it's important to find a qualified contractor who can help you select the right hot water heater for your home and install it correctly. With a little bit of research and preparation, you can ensure that your hot water heater replacement and installation goes smoothly. Lifespan of Water Heater While hot water heaters typically last between 10 to 15 years, there are a few things you can do to help extend its lifespan. First, have your hot water heater serviced regularly. This will help to ensure that it is operating efficiently and can identify any potential problems before they cause significant damage. Second, be sure to drain your hot water heater at least once per year to remove sediments that can build up over time and reduce its efficiency. Finally, keep an eye on your hot water usage and be sure to adjust the temperature accordingly. By following these simple tips, you can help to prolong the lifespan of your hot water heater and avoid the need for a replacement or installation sooner than necessary. The Importance Of High-Efficiency Water heating accounts for a significant portion of your energy bill, so it's important to choose a hot water heater that is energy-efficient. High-efficiency hot water heaters use less energy to heat the same amount of water, which can save you money on your energy bill. If you're considering replacing your hot water heater, or if you're in the market for a new hot water heater, look for a model that is ENERGY STAR® certified. ENERGY STAR® certified hot water heaters are independently certified to meet strict efficiency standards, and they can save you money and energy over the life of the hot water heater. When choosing a hot water heater, make sure to consider the size of the hot water heater and the capacity that you need. A larger hot water heater will require more energy to operate, so it's important to choose the right size hot water heater for your needs. Current Water vHeater Efficiency When considering hot water heater replacement and installation, it is important to factor in the current efficiency of different models. Each water heater is given an Energy Efficiency Rating or an Energy Factor. The Energy Factor of a hot water heater is a calculation of its efficiency when run under standardized conditions for a 24-hour period of time. The Department of Energy calculates the Energy Factor by running a specified simulated use test on each model of the water heater. Expressed as a decimal, this number reflects how well the hot water heater uses heat to generate hot water over the course of a day. A higher number means greater efficiency. Additionally, some hot water heaters come with built-in features that further increase their efficiency, such as insulation and self-diagnostic controls. When selecting a hot water heater, it is important to consider both the initial cost and the ongoing energy costs associated with operation. Comparing these factors will help you choose the most efficient model for your needs. How To Make It More Efficient Hot water heater, maintenance, efficiency. An easy way to make your hot water heater more efficient is to keep it regularly maintained. Regular maintenance, as stated earlier, will also increase the lifespan of your hot water heater. Regular maintenance includes periodically flushing your tank of water and replacing anode rods. Most people don't know this, but hot water heaters should be flushed every six months to year. This simple task removes harmful sediment from building up and damaging your hot water heater. You can buy a hot water heater sediment flush kit at any hardware store. Another part of regular maintenance is replacing anode rods. Anode rods work by sacrificing themselves to corrosion so that your hot water heater tank doesn't rust. These rods should be replaced every three to five years. Replacing anode rods is a simple process that you can do yourself or hire a professional to do. Either way, making sure your hot water heater is regularly maintained will help to keep it running efficiently for years to come. Options When it's time for a new hot water heater, you have more choices than ever before. Fuel type, efficiency, size and cost all come into play. Here's a rundown of what you need to know to choose the best hot water heater for your home. Water heaters come in all shapes and sizes, but they fall into two basic categories: tankless and storage tank. Tankless hot water heaters heat water on demand, so they're more energy-efficient than storage tank heaters. However, they often come with a higher price tag. Storage tank hot water heaters are less expensive up front, but they're not as efficient and will add to your monthly energy bills. Fuel type is another key factor to consider. Electric hot water heaters are the most common type, but they're not always the best choice. If you have access to natural gas or propane, those fuel sources will be cheaper in the long run. Solar hot water heaters are becoming increasingly popular, but they require a significant up-front investment. Once you've decided on a fuel type, it's time to decide what size hot water heater you need. This is determined by the number of people in your household and your typical hot water usage. A family of four will need a different size hot water heater than a single person household. If you're not sure what size hot water heater you need, consult with a plumber or ask the salesperson at your local home improvement store for help. Cost is always a consideration when purchasing any major appliance. However, it's important to remember that the initial purchase price is only part of the equation. Electricity costs, maintenance costs and repair costs should all be factored into your decision. In general, electric hot water heaters are the most expensive to operate, followed by solar hot water heaters. Gas hot water heaters are typically the cheapest to operate, but they may require more maintenance over time than electric models. When shopping for a new hot water heater, keep all of these factors in mind to ensure that you choose the best model for your home and budget. Price When it's time to replace an old hot water heater or install a new one, the costs can vary based on several factors. The type of hot water heater is the largest factor, with traditional hot water heaters on the lower end of the estimate and tankless hot water heaters on the higher end. Another factor is whether you're installing a new hot water heater or replacing an old one. Replacing an old hot water heater is generally less expensive than installing a new one. The size and efficiency of the hot water heater also play a role in the price. High-efficiency hot water heaters are larger and more expensive than standard hot water heaters. However, they typically provide significant long-term savings on your energy bill. When considering the cost of a hot water heater, be sure to factor in the long-term savings of a high-efficiency model. Comments are closed.
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