The Benefits of Water Heaters
The Benefits of Water Heaters
01/31/2023
The process of heating water in a home requires a lot of electricity. It’s estimated that 12% of an average home’s energy consumption is spent to heat water. The amount of energy the water heater consumes is dependent on the amount of water used and the type of water heater installed. This means when it is time to install new units, it is a good idea to compare options to find the right level of efficiency.
Getting to know some of the most significant benefits offered by Hot Water Heaters can help you see why this is such a smart investment. Keep reading to learn what these benefits are.
Reduced Initial Costs
Of all the water heater options available today, electric units will be the most affordable option upfront. The cost will depend on the type and size of the water heater installed, regardless of the fuel used for power. For example, traditional water heaters with tanks are more affordable than the tankless, on-demand systems. Usually, the price range between these units is the result of the installation costs.
With gas hot water heaters, a homeowner must install new piping and an entire ventilation system to vent the exhaust that is produced through the combustion process. With an electric unit, no additional infrastructure is required, making the process faster and easier.
Higher Levels of Efficiency
The best way to begin comparing the efficiencies of different water heaters is by looking at the energy factors (EF) and hydronics. This is the number that is used to determine the effectiveness of a water heater when it is producing hot water. It measures the total electricity or fuel required to heat the water fully. When someone has the EF numbers, they can compare the efficiency of each type of unit. Higher efficiency units are going to have higher EF numbers.
Safety Considerations
Gas and electric water heaters are both considered safe solutions when it is time to heat water. With that in mind, just like with any appliance that runs on gas, a water heater may experience gas leaks. This type of issue can be alleviated by ensuring proper installation and ongoing maintenance for the unit. Even though electric appliances have specific safety concerns, the possibility of dealing with gas leaks are higher than safety issues related to electric units.
Availability
Almost every home today is tied to the electric grid. This means it has a readily available source for electricity. This means that virtually any home can install and begin using an electric water heater right away.
However, for homeowners interested in gas water heaters, they will have to ensure the home is connected to a natural gas line or that it has a propane source. If it doesn’t, then having to make these upgrades will significantly add to the installation cost.
Selecting the Right Water Heater
When it comes time to choose a water heater, there are several factors to remember. Each of the pros mentioned above can be used to determine what type of unit is best. Remember, there is no black and white right answer for every person. Each homeowner must weigh the pros and cons and get to know what is offered by the various units. This will help them make an educated decision regarding what unit is best suited to their home’s and family’s needs.
Being informed and understanding the factors listed above will help anyone choose a water heater that is efficient and that can supply their home and family with the water needed.