Selecting a New Water Heater - Water Heaters & Softeners

Selecting a New Water Heater

You have a lot to consider when selecting a new water heater for your home. You should choose a water heating system that will not only provide enough hot water but also that will do so energy efficiently, saving you money. This includes considering the different types of water heaters available and determining the right size and fuel source for your home.

Types of Water Heaters
It's a good idea to know the different types of water heaters available before you purchase one:

Conventional storage water heaters
Offer a ready reservoir (storage tank) of hot water

Demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters
Heat water directly without the use of a storage tank

Heat pump water heaters
Move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly for providing hot water

Solar water heaters
Use the sun's heat to provide hot water

Tankless coil and indirect water heaters
Use a home's space heating system to heat water

Selection Criteria
When selecting the best type and model of water heater for your home, you also need to consider the following:

Fuel type, availability and cost
The fuel type or energy source you use for water heating will not only affect the water heater's annual operation costs but also its size and energy efficiency.

Size
To provide your household with enough hot water and to maximize efficiency, you need a properly sized water heater.

Energy efficiency
To maximize your energy and cost savings, you want to know how energy efficient a water heater is before you purchase it.

Costs
Before you purchase a water heater, it's also a good idea to estimate its annual operating costs and compare those costs with other less or more energy-efficient models.