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Options To Think About When You Need A New Water Heater

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If your water heater is rusted out or leaking, you'll probably need to have a new one installed, since damage like that can't usually be repaired. When you buy a new hot water heater, it's a good time to consider your choices so you can buy one that's a better match for your household. Here are some of the things to consider when you start looking at new hot water heaters.

Switch To Tankless

You might want to switch to a tankless heater if you often run out of hot water often because several people take showers in the mornings. You don't have to worry about running out of hot water when you have a tankless heater. Before you buy one, be sure your electrical system can support the added demand for this type of appliance.

Consider The Capacity

Whether you buy a tankless heater or one with a reservoir, be sure to let a contractor from a company like HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric calculate the best size for your family. Buying a tank that is too large results in wasted energy and higher power bills, but if the tank is too small, you'll run out of hot water too quickly. The best size can be calculated by taking into account the number of people in your house and your water use habits.

Switch To Gas Or Solar Power

It's less expensive to operate a hot water heater with gas than it is with electricity. When you get a new heater, it might be time to switch to gas, especially if you already have the lines available in your house. Another option to consider is solar power, which would be an economical way to heat the water once you paid for the initial installation of solar panels.

Look For An Energy-Efficient Model

If you've had your current hot water heater for many years, it probably isn't very energy efficient. New heaters have improved insulation so that even electric heaters are less expensive to operate. Look for a heater that is Energy Star rated to ensure it won't waste energy and to save money on your power bill.

A new water heater should last for several years, so don't forget to look to the future. If your kids are young now, your hot water demand may increase in a few years when they become teens and they take more showers and do more laundry. Selecting the right water heater ensures your family can shower comfortably for years to come without worrying about running out of hot water on a chilly winter morning.


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