Be A Hot Water Hero: Your Easy Guide to Choosing a Water Heater

Are your showers turning into ice baths? Are you trying to select the best option for your new construction home? Do you find yourself fighting for shower time with your family members? You’re not alone. Choosing a new water heater can be daunting, but with a few key considerations, you can find the perfect fit for your home and be the hot water hero for yourself and your family.

Tank vs. Tankless

Conventional water heaters utilize storage tanks to keep a supply of hot water ready. Tankless models heat water on-demand rather than storing it in a tank, saving space and improving energy efficiency.

●       Conventional water heaters: Less expensive upfront, but uses energy keeping water hot even when not in use.

●       Tankless water heaters: More expensive upfront, although can be more energy-efficient, especially in homes that use less water.

Sizing Up Your Water Heater Needs

Consider your household’s hot water consumption. How many people live in your home and what are their hot water habits? Here’s a general rule of thumb for finding the right size:

●       30-40 gallon tank: Perfect for small homes (1-2 people) and those who have limited water usage.

●       40-50 gallon tank: This tank size works well for most homes (3-4 people) who expect to have typical water usage.

●       50-80 gallon tank: Larger homes and those with more people use more water (5+ people). If your home has a spa tub, you will need a larger tank.

Another factor to consider is the heater’s first hour rating. This is the number of gallons of hot water per hour that it can supply when it begins with a tank full of hot water. The first hour rating depends on the tank size, and the type of heat source (burner or element), as well as the size of the heat source.

Energy Efficiency

Look for the Energy Star label. This label means the heaters meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, saving you money on your utility bills in the long run. As mentioned previously, tankless water heaters are generally more efficient than their conventional counterparts.

Water heaters come in natural gas, propane, and electric options. Select the option that fits best with your home’s existing fuel supply to minimize additional installation costs.

MRS Lacy is Here to Help

There is a lot to consider when choosing a water heater for your home, but MRS Lacy Plumbing can help you through it. We never want you and your family to take a cold shower again. Call us today at 765-780-7890 for a water heater consultation and quote.