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6 Factors To Consider Before A Water Heater Replacement For Your Home| Myrtle Beach, SC
According to Energy Star of the United States Department of Energy, 8 million old water heaters are replaced yearly in the US, while 2 million more are installed in new homes. The constant progress of technology means that new units have more power, increased energy efficiency, and more durability. But not all water heaters are created equal, so choosing the right heater for your family can be overwhelming. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach, we understand the importance of finding the right water heater replacement for your Myrtle Beach, SC home. Read on for more on the factors to consider when making this decision.
Determine the Size of the Water Heater You Need
The right size water heater for your household depends on the number of people in your home and their water usage. If you live alone or have a small household with a single shower, an on-demand or tankless water heater may be a good choice. This heater provides instant hot water and doesn’t require a storage tank. On the other hand, a large family with a high demand for hot water will need a tank system with a larger storage capacity.
Consider the first-hour rating (FHR), which measures the amount of hot water the heater can produce in an hour. Calculating the specific amount of hot water you need each day and matching it to the right size heater is challenging at best. However, a water heater installation can help determine what heater size meets your family’s daily estimated use.
Choose Between a Tank and Tankless Water Heater
The right choice between a tank and tankless water heater installation will depend on your needs and circumstances. They have unique pros and cons, and weighing them is important to ensure an informed decision.
A tankless water heater provides a continuous supply of hot water. It heats water on demand rather than storing it in a tank, and as such, you’ll never run out of hot water. This is particularly beneficial for large properties with multiple bathrooms and large families. These units are also more energy-efficient than storage tank water heaters as they only consume energy when there’s a demand for hot water.
Storage tank water heaters are cheaper to purchase and install than their tankless counterparts. They also last longer because they have fewer mechanical parts. Additionally, a tank water heater replacement may be more practical if you have a large family.
Consider the Fuel Source
Another essential factor to consider during water heater replacement is the fuel source. Different fuel sources have different costs, energy efficiency ratings, and environmental impacts, hence the importance of weighing your option.
Gas water heaters are generally more efficient than electric heaters. And while they can heat water faster, they require a gas line to be installed in your home. It may not be an option for you if your home doesn’t have access to natural gas.
Propane heaters are more expensive than natural heaters and are a great option if you don’t have access to a gas line. Electric water heaters are less costly to purchase than gas and propane heaters. On the downside, they are less energy-efficient and not ideal for homesteads with a high demand for hot water.
Solar water heaters are an environmentally-friendly option as they use solar energy to heat water. While they come with high upfront costs, they can save you money on energy costs in the long term.
Ultimately, the best fuel source for your water heater will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. A water heater replacement expert in Myrtle Beach, SC can help you weigh the pros and cons of each fuel source and make the right decision for your family.
Look at the Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency ratings for water heaters are based on the energy factor, i.e., the amount of hot water a heater can produce per unit of fuel consumed. A higher energy factor indicates a more efficient water heater. Storage tank water heaters have an EF rating of 0.5-0.95, while tankless heaters have an EF rating of 0.8-0.99. Heat pump heaters have an EF rating of 2-3.
When shopping for a replacement water heater, compare the energy efficiency ratings of different models to find the most energy-efficient unit. Don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a water heater replacement professional. They have in-depth knowledge of energy efficiency ratings and can help you make the right choice for your family.
Cost of the Water Heater
Cost is an essential factor to consider when choosing a new water heater. The initial purchase price can vary widely depending on the type and size of the water heater and any extra features it may have.
Storage tank heaters are the most common and come with lower upfront costs than tankless and heat-pump water heaters. However, storage tank heaters are less efficient, hence higher operating costs in the long run than tankless and heat pump water heaters.
It’s not enough to account for the initial purchase price and water heater replacement costs. You must also consider the expected operating costs to determine the most cost-effective option for your household. A water heater replacement expert can help you estimate these costs and determine the best unit for your home.
Think About the Location of the Water Heater
Location is also a critical factor to consider when choosing a water heater. Tankless water heaters take up less space than their storage tank counterparts and can be installed on the wall. All it needs is a location with plenty of ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Tank water heaters take up ample space and can be installed in multiple locations, including the utility room, basement, or even an exterior wall. You’ll need enough space to accommodate the heater tank size and allow for ventilation. A water heater installation expert can assess your space and recommend the best unit for your needs.
Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach for Professional Water Heater Replacement
If you’re in Myrtle Beach, SC, and need a new water heater, don’t hesitate to call our expert plumbers for professional water heater replacement. We’ll help you choose the best water heater for your home and ensure it is properly installed for optimal performance. Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach today to schedule your appointment.