5 Important Things to Consider Before Buying a New Hot Water Unit
Posted on: 16 July 2020
Hot water units are an essential part of any home. They have a big part to play in increasing the comfort level in your home. If your hot water unit is damaged, or you find yourself constantly needing repairs for it, then it may be time to find a new one to replace it.
Buying a new heating system is a high investment. You want to ensure that you're choosing one that is energy-efficient and most suitable for your home. Here are 5 things to consider when choosing a water heater for your home.
Water Heater Capacity
Typically, water heater capacity differs from one heating system to the next. This decision depends on your peak water usage, which is the highest amount of water used in your home at a specific time. For example, in a family of 4, you'd probably take at least 4 showers and use the washing machine on a daily basis. While this may not be the case every day, the peak water usage determines an average amount of water that your family will need.
Once you've decided on your home's average hot water usage, you can decide on what type of hater you require. Tankless water heaters don't hold a lot of water. When considering their capacity, you should not consider how much water people hold at a go, rather, the amount of water per minute.
Type of Hot Water Unit
There is a range of water heating units to choose from, each with their pros and cons. For example, a small family would benefit more from an electric water heater, while a gas heater with storage would be the best option for a home with many occupants.
A tankless water heater would increase energy efficiency but only provide a limited amount of hot water in your home.
Energy Efficiency
If you need to bring down your home's utility costs, consider investing in a hot water unit that's energy-efficient. One example is the solar water heater. It provides your home with maximum energy efficiency while reducing your carbon footprint.
Source of Fuel
Common residential water heaters depend on either gas or electricity as their source of fuel. Gas water heaters have a higher cost upfront and require special ventilation to ensure the safety of your home and the health of the occupants. Electric models have a smaller cost upfront but with high operating costs. Before you go and buy a home water heating unit, confirm which one you currently use, so that you can find the best replacement.
Available Space
Consider the space available to store the water heating unit. This will help you choose between short water heaters, which are wider and shorter than the standard heaters or the taller heaters. Short water heaters hold the same amount of water but fit in areas with limited vertical space. Tankless heaters typically take up little space, compared to the traditional tank options.
Consider these factors as you choose the best option for your water heating unit installation. If you're uncertain about the decision to make, consult a plumber, and benefit from their expert advice.
For further tips on hot water units, reach out to a local plumber.
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