Information about common residential water heaters –
Residential water heaters are generally one of two types. The most common type is a “tank” type or more commonly called a storage water heater . These water heaters “store” the heated water and range in size from 2 gallons up to 120 gallons , and most commonly use a fuel gas (natural or propane)or electricity to heat the water . the second type is a “tankless” water heater . Tankless water heaters do not store heated water , but are designed to heat the water when it is needed.This is also called “on demand heating” Tankless water heaters for residential use are general only practical when a fuel gas is available . In most cases ,electric on demand water heaters are not a good choice for residential applications.
Gas storage water heaters are very common and work very well in many homes. They are generally trouble free and safe in most applications . They are reliable and the more modern models offer good efficiency at a moderate price .These heaters are commonly found in sizes ranging from 30 gallons up to 100 gallons for a large home. Natural gas models are found in urban areas , and L.P. (propane ) models are found in rural locations. These water heaters usually have a lifespan of 8 to 15 years ,( varying with use and water quality ). Storage gas water heaters are commonly installed in a garage , utility room, basement (natural gas only) mechanical closet , or a closet with a door opening to the outside of the home. Gas water heaters are not allowed to be installed in bathrooms, bedrooms ,or bedroom closets , unless special heaters designed for that purpose are used .Storage gas water heaters are a very good choice when replacing an existing gas water heater.
Electric storage water heaters are also quite common . They range inside from 2 gallons up to 120 gallons . One big advantage to electric tank type water heaters, is that they can be installed just about anywhere.They are commonly found in garages, utility rooms , bedroom closets , bathroom closets, kitchen closets , basements,crawl spaces, or just about anywhere as long as they are protected from the elements, and there is adequate space for access to repair or replace them. Electric water heaters are very reliable and are silent in their operation.
The potential drawbacks to electric water heaters are; they have a relatively low recovery rate ,( gallons per hour),and they are usually more expensive to operate than a gas water heater .( especially when natural gas is an option). The average lifespan for a electric storage water heater is 10 to 16 years again depending on use and water quality.When considering replacement of a electric storage water heater ,choosing the most efficient model that will fit the space provided is usually the best and most cost effective choice. Converting from electric to a gas model is sometimes an option ,a in-depth evaluation of the home is required to determine if this is possible and practical and cost effective .
Tankless gas water heaters are a great option for new construction homes , and are a possible choice to replace a storage water heater . Every home is unique and an evaluation of the structure ,and the installation location is needed to see if a tankless water heater is a practical option.
Plummers Repair Only is an expert it all of these types of water heating systems, and many others not mentioned in this articl. Call us anytime for answers to all of you hot water questions or concerns.
