If your existing water heater is inefficient and more than a decade old, you should consider getting a new one.
Replacing it with a newer system will surely reduce your heating costs and make your home more comfortable.
A water heater can account for almost 20% of your home’s energy use.
And because it has a limited lifespan that is typically less than two decades, you need to be smart when choosing a new one.
Be sure to select a water heater that’s ENERGY STAR qualified.
There are five hot water technologies that are eligible for this, and they fall under three categories: electric, natural gas and solar.
Electric
A heat pump water heater is an efficient system that runs on electricity.
It transfers heat from one place to another, instead of creating it directly.
If you want a spare water heater that will eventually replace your existing electric water heater when it breaks down, a heat pump is a good choice.
It may require more space for a condensate drain and the initial cost can seem a bit daunting, but it can cut your heating bills by up to 50%.
Natural Gas
There are three efficient water heating systems that use natural gas.
Gas tankless water heater – Does your existing water heating system’s tank always run out of hot water? Are you looking for a unit that does not take up much space and has excellent longevity? Does your home have a large gas line and enough space for vents? If so, a whole-home gas tankless hot water system is a good choice. Its high cost and great need for regular maintenance certainly pale in comparison to the amount you will save in the long run.
Gas condensing water heater – This is also a good choice if you always run out of hot water. It can provide a supply of hot water that’s almost constant, owing to its heating efficacy. What’s more, it can cut your heating’s energy use by up to 30% and reduce your home’s greenhouse emissions.
Gas storage water heater – It is not difficult to find a high-efficiency gas storage hot water system. In fact, a lot of retailers, contractors and homeowners agree that it is one of the best choices for energy savings and reliability. It also requires less maintenance than a tankless heater.
Solar
If your home’s access to sunshine is mostly dependable and you want to use a source of energy that’s renewable, a solar water heater is an ideal choice.
Perhaps the only drawback is that it may require more maintenance.
Also, you may want to get a natural gas or electric water heater to use on days when the sun doesn’t shine.
It is important to remember that cheaper water heaters are usually more expensive to operate. With this in mind and considering the pros and cons of the different types of hot water systems, you will be able to make an informed decision. And of course, make sure to choose a unit that comes with a comprehensive hot water thermostat, so you can easily control the temperature. Once you have chosen a unit, be sure to take steps to reduce its energy consumption.
