When it is time to purchase a new water heater, there are many factors to consider. Water heaters perform an important role in your home. Steve’s Plumbing and Heating in Central Wisconsin can help you determine which is right for your home and install it properly for you.
Types of Water Heaters
Before you decide which water heater is right, you need to collect information on the types of water heaters available. There are several types of water heaters:
● Storage Water Heaters use a hot water tank to heat and store water. They are capable of instantly delivering heated water into your home’s plumbing system.
● Tankless Water Heaters provide hot water on an as-needed basis. They heat water directly to deliver a constant hot water supply.
● Heat Pump Water Heaters work best in warm places. They use heat pumps to pull heat from the air and transfer it into the water.
● Solar Water Heaters use solar energy to heat the water. Active solar water heaters work either by using direct circulation systems or indirect circulation systems. Passive solar systems work better in warmer clients.
● Tankless Coil Water Heaters heat water by using a heating coil or heat exchanger when the faucet is turned on.
● Indirect Water Heaters use a heating exchanger or coil installed in the main boiler to heat the water.
Once you understand the types of water heaters available, our fixture installation experts can match you with the best water heater based on your individual needs. There are several considerations to take into account when determining the best water heater option for you.
These tips will help you choose the right water heater:
1. Consider Purchase Cost. The purchase cost of the water heater is only one of the expenses. Our experts can help you take into account maintenance, installation, and operating expenses. Storage water heaters are the least expensive, while solar heaters are among the costliest.
2. Consider Fuel Type and Cost. The type of fuel used by a hot water heater can play a key role in its operating costs. It can also play a role in environmental concerns. Types of fuel include geothermal energy, electricity, fuel oil, natural gas, propane, and solar energy.
3. Choose the Size You Will Need. Determining your family’s peak-hour hot water demand is important in deciding the heating capacity necessary for your home.
4. Consider the Heater’s Life Expectancy. While an average water heater can last 10 to 15 years, some last longer than others. Tankless and solar water heaters can last as long as 20 years.
5. Consider Tax Rebates and Credits. A number of tax credits and rebates are available for using Energy Star-certified and energy efficient products. These include heat pumps, solar water heaters, and water heaters with an EF (Energy Factor) of at least 0.82.
6. Determine How Much Maintenance Your Heater Will Require. Water heater maintenance is a critical component of keeping your heater running efficiently and lasting for many years. Some water heaters require professional periodic maintenance.
7. Consider the Heater’s EF (Energy Factor). Water heaters with higher EF factors are more efficient. Highly efficient water heaters will receive an Energy Star label.
Expert Water Heater Installation in Central Wisconsin
Choosing the best water heater for your home’s needs is a key to keeping your home running smoothly. Our plumbing and HVAC experts can advise you on the perfect water heater and handle appliance installation. The technicians we have on staff at Steve’s Plumbing and Heating are highly experienced with every type of water heater. We can help you choose the best water heater and install it safely. Our technicians are also experts in drain maintenance, bathroom remodels, kitchen remodels, and trenchless sewer repair. For more information, call us at 715-421-1800, or you can message us on our contact page.