How to Choose a New Water Heater.

If your current new water heater was purchased before April 2015, things are going to look a lot different this time around.

What happened in 2015? A new set of federal energy efficiency standards to reduce energy consumption while also providing you with additional options.

While newer model water heaters cost more than old style units, after about seven years you’ll more than make up the price differential with the amount of money you’ll save on utility costs.

Here’s a quick look at what’s new and different on the water heater landscape:

Electric Storage Tank Water Heaters

• Under 55 Gallons – These are essentially the same as what you’re used to, although they have more internal insulation to meet or exceed new federal energy efficiency standards. That results in taller and wider configurations.
• More Than 55 gallons – Electric water heaters with more than 55 gallons of storage capacity are no longer solely electric – they are what’s called “electric hybrid heat pump”. Think of these as energy efficiency on steroids. Heat pump water heaters are twice as efficient as electric water heaters. They simply move heat rather than make heat, just like a refrigerator, but in reverse. While a refrigerator pulls heat from inside a box and dumps it into the surrounding room, a heat pump water heater pulls heat from the surrounding air and transfers it – at a higher temperature – into the tank to heat your water. One thing to keep in mind: heat pump systems require a minimum size space of 10’ x 10’ for installation.

Gas Storage Tank Water Heaters

• Under 55 gallons – These feature the same basic technology as earlier models, but again, they’re larger in size which could be a problem if your current water heater fits its space exactly.
• More Than 55 gallons – Conventional gas water heaters have been replaced by gas condensing systems, a more energy efficient technology. And, like electric heat pump models, they have a larger footprint.

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

By definition, there is no storage tank in a tankless system; instead, water is heated as it passes through a wall-mounted heat exchanger.  Tankless systems come in whole-house and point-of-use models. A right-sized system can provide you with all the hot water you need. Plus, they’re designed to last up to 20 years and longer.

If it’s time to replace your water heater or purchase one for your new home, let Norhio Plumbing guide you through the process. We install only high quality systems and use parts and materials made to last. Don’t settle for second best – not when Norhio is here and ready to fulfill your home plumbing needs.