Choosing a Water Heater: Know Your Options

If you’re replacing an aging water heater, or having a water heater installed on your property for the first time, there are a few considerations to make. The first decision you’ll face is whether to go with a gas or electric model. Since both are available for most water heater sizes, the decision most often comes down to what connections you have available, and what their costs would be.

Once you’ve determined that, the question is—do you want a traditional tank style water heater, or a tankless water heater? Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. But that doesn’t mean they’re the best choice for every home. A tank water heater may suit you more. Be sure to contact us for your  Richmond, TX water heater services , whatever you end up deciding on.

First, let’s look at the distinction between gas and electric water heaters. Of course, a gas-powered water heater will require a gas line to operate. Therefore, if your home doesn’t have natural gas connections, by default you’ll need to go electric anyway. But if you do have natural gas, then a gas-powered water heater may be a good fit for you.

Gas water heaters  work when a pilot light ignites a burner plate beneath the tank, whenever the temperature of the water in the tank drops below the thermostat setting. Most modern gas water heaters have electronic ignition, so some electricity is involved. However, over all, a gas powered system will be relatively more affordable to run on a monthly basis.

Electric water heaters  do not require connection to a gas line or exhaust system like their gas-powered counterparts do. Therefore, installation is less expensive than a gas powered system and can usually be done more quickly as well. Plus, you can install insulation upgrades such as a water heater blanked that will reduce heat loss from the tank, without worrying about exposure to the gas burners.

Tank water heaters , the traditional water heater type that you are most likely familiar with, are the more conventional choice. They store continuously heated water in a storage tank for later on. The benefits of such a system include the fact that they are more affordable upfront than their tankless counterparts, involve simpler installation, and they are compatible with reticulation systems.

Tankless water heaters  work by heating cold water that passes through them via a gas burner or electrical elements, and then supply the water to the pipes of a building, without the use of any type of storage tank. There are pros and cons to this system as well.
Tankless water heaters typically have lower maintenance costs, and the hot water will never run out. There are more expensive upfront, however they work more efficiently (up to 80% more efficiently) than the traditional model, meaning you’ll pay less month-to-month. Lastly, you can usually discover tax credits by purchasing a tankless model due to their energy-savings.

For services you can depend on,  contact Doug Turner Plumbing CO.  today!

The post Choosing a Water Heater: Know Your Options appeared first on Doug Turner Plumbing CO..