If you’re in the market for a new water heater, you have so many options to choose from. In fact, doing research online or looking at water heaters in a local hardware store may leave you feeling overwhelmed by all the options. Our team is here to help! Modern tankless systems offer advanced, on-demand water heating solutions with high energy efficiency and customizable sizing to meet your household’s hot water requirements.
What makes a tankless water heater the best choice?
The best tankless water heaters provide endless hot water, superior energy efficiency, and a compact design that saves space. They reduce utility bills over time and last longer than traditional tanks. For optimal performance, look for models with high flow rates, strong warranties, and compatibility with your home’s power system.
Keep reading to learn about different factors to consider when selecting a water heater that fits your family’s needs. Professional installation is recommended for both safety and to ensure the system is set up correctly. Then give our team a call for water heater installation in O’Fallon, MO. We can answer any additional questions you have and complete an in-home assessment so you know exactly how your preferred unit will be set up in your home.
Tank Vs. Tankless
First, you have to decide whether you want a tank water heater or a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters are popular because they provide a nearly endless supply of hot water. A tankless hot water heater eliminates the need for a bulky storage tank by heating water on demand. Tankless heaters are a modern alternative to traditional tank models, offering advanced technology and energy savings. Additionally, a tankless system can have an extended lifespan compared to traditional tank water heaters, typically lasting 15-20 years. You don’t have to worry about taking shorter showers or allowing time in between hot water use.
But tank water heaters are still very popular. You can easily get a larger tank that stores more hot water if you have a larger family. Plus, tank water heaters can allow you to use hot water at more places at a time without losing water pressure, while the same cannot be said for a tankless water heater. It really comes down to personal preference when making a selection. However, it’s worth noting that tankless water heaters come with higher upfront costs and more complex installation requirements compared to traditional models.
Gas Vs. Electric
Once you decide between tank and tankless, you also have to think about whether you want a gas water heater or an electric water heater. A gas heater is a traditional water heating option that is often compared to electric models for its efficiency, installation requirements, and environmental impact. Gas water heaters heat up much more quickly compared to electric water heaters, making them more energy efficient. Gas tankless water heaters use either natural gas or propane as a fuel source, and require proper installation of gas lines and ventilation for safe operation. Gas models require proper gas lines and, in some cases, a natural gas line or propane tanks for operation. Propane systems are a powerful alternative to natural gas, especially in areas without natural gas service. Gas heaters heat up much more quickly compared to electric water heaters, making them more energy efficient. You may spend less on heating your water if you have a gas-powered system instead of an electric system. Gas tankless water heaters typically offer superior performance and higher flow rates than electric models. Electric models are suitable for smaller spaces and offer technological advancements, but may have performance limitations in colder climates compared to gas models.
However, availability of service may be a factor in what kind of water heater you install in your home. If you don’t have gas service in your area, you may have to go with an electric water heater. Electric water heater heaters tend to cost less upfront for installation compared to gas water heaters, so you will enjoy some savings there even though they cost more for month-to-month operation.
Water Heater Efficiency
Once you have narrowed down your choices to decide the precise kind of water heater you want, it’s time to consider water heater energy efficiency ratings. All water heaters come with a bright yellow tag that estimates the overall efficiency of the unit. Modern water heaters often include energy saving features that can lead to significant energy savings and cost savings over time. When comparing models, it’s important to understand how much energy each water heater uses, as this can greatly impact your long-term savings and efficiency. Choosing a high-efficiency unit can result in lower operating costs and reduced energy costs, helping you save energy and lower your utility bills. In fact, efficient water heaters can save up to 30% or more in energy use compared to traditional models, depending on the system and usage. These benefits also contribute to a reduced environmental impact by minimizing overall energy consumption. Energy efficiency ratings for water heaters are measured using the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), which helps consumers compare the energy performance of different models.
If you choose a high-efficiency water heater, you will have better overall results. It is important to note that you should not compare water heater efficiency ratings between different types of systems because each one is rated in a unique way. That’s why you should wait until you know exactly what kind of water heater you want and then take efficiency into consideration.
Sizing Your Water Heater: Capacity and Flow Rate
Choosing the right size tankless water heater is one of the most important steps to ensure your home always has reliable hot water. Unlike traditional tank water heaters that store a set amount of hot water, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. When a hot water tap is turned on, the system is activated, providing instant hot water. This means the unit’s capacity and flow rate must match your household’s hot water needs, especially if you want to enjoy continuous hot water during busy mornings or when multiple appliances are running. Consulting a certified plumber is the most reliable approach to correctly sizing your tankless water heater system.
The flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), tells you how much hot water the tankless water heater can deliver at once. To find the right size, think about how many hot water taps, showers, or appliances you might use at the same time. For example, running a shower and a washing machine together requires a higher flow rate than just using a single faucet. Add up the GPM requirements for each fixture you expect to use simultaneously to determine the minimum flow rate your tankless water heater should provide.
Capacity is another key factor. While tankless water heaters don’t store hot water, their ability to heat water quickly depends on the incoming water temperature and the desired temperature you want at your fixtures. The required temperature rise is calculated by subtracting the incoming water temperature from your desired temperature. If you choose a unit that’s too small, you might experience lukewarm water or reduced flow when demand is high. On the other hand, an oversized unit can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher upfront costs.
To ensure optimal performance, consider your family’s peak hot water demands and consult with a professional plumber to help you select the right tankless water heater size. This way, you’ll enjoy consistent hot water, energy efficiency, and peace of mind knowing your water heater can keep up with your lifestyle.
Installation Options
When it comes to installing a tankless water heater, there are several important options and factors to keep in mind to ensure you get reliable hot water at your desired hot water temperature. The installation process for a tankless water heater can vary depending on your chosen fuel source—whether it’s natural gas, propane, or electricity—as well as the layout of your home and local building codes.
One of the first decisions is whether to opt for an indoor or outdoor installation. Indoor units are typically installed in utility rooms, basements, or garages, and require proper venting to safely expel exhaust gases, especially for gas tankless water heaters. Outdoor models, on the other hand, are designed to withstand the elements and can save valuable indoor space, but may need freeze protection in colder climates to ensure consistent hot water delivery.
The fuel source you select will also impact installation requirements. Gas tankless water heaters need access to a natural gas line or propane tanks, along with adequate ventilation and sometimes metal venting to prevent safety hazards. Electric tankless water heaters generally have simpler installation needs, but may require electrical upgrades to handle the increased power demand, especially if you want to maintain a steady supply of hot water during peak usage.
Local building codes play a crucial role in determining where and how your tankless water heater can be installed. These codes are designed to ensure safety and efficiency, so it’s essential to work with a professional plumber who understands the regulations in your area. A professional installation not only guarantees that your tankless water heater is set up correctly for optimal performance, but also helps protect your warranty and investment.
Ultimately, the right installation option for your tankless water heater will depend on your home’s infrastructure, your hot water needs, and your preferred fuel source. By considering these factors and consulting with an expert, you can enjoy the benefits of endless hot water, energy efficiency, and peace of mind knowing your water heater is installed safely and correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the first decision I should make when upgrading my water heater?
Answer: The first decision is whether to choose a tank or tankless water heater. Tankless systems provide nearly unlimited hot water on demand, while tank systems offer strong water pressure and large storage capacity, especially useful for households using multiple taps at once.
Question: How do I choose between gas and electric water heaters?
Answer: Consider your home’s fuel access and energy cost goals. Gas water heaters heat faster and are generally more efficient, but may be harder to install if you don’t already have gas lines. Electric models are easier to install but may have higher long-term energy costs.
Question: Why is the energy efficiency rating important when selecting a water heater?
Answer: Energy efficiency ratings help you compare how effectively a water heater converts energy into hot water. Higher efficiency units typically save money over time. Be sure to compare ratings only among similar types, since tank and tankless systems are evaluated differently.
Question: What size water heater is right for my home?
Answer: The right size depends on your household’s hot water usage. Larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms may need a bigger tank or a high-capacity tankless unit. Consulting a plumbing expert ensures the unit matches your daily water needs without wasting energy.
Contact Performance Plumbing today for plumbing services in St. Louis, MO today!