What To Consider When Making A Water Heater Purchase

What To Consider When Making A Water Heater Purchase

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We’ve all heard the saying, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” but that’s not entirely correct regarding your old water heater. When you run the numbers and gather the facts when making a water heater purchase, you might find that replacing it before it completely breaks down might be a wise choice. This is because technology has infiltrated every facet of life, including water heaters. 

Save As Much As 34% Over Water Heaters Built Ten Years Ago

Water heaters built today may save you more than you thought possible. For example, you can save as much as 34% in energy costs over the same water heater built ten years ago. But, unfortunately, what usually happens is our water heaters are tucked away in the corner of the garage somewhere out of sight and out of mind. Until it breaks down, then we scamper down to our home improvement store without ever exploring different options. Stay one step ahead and explore a water heater purchase the moment you see the signs of an old heater.

Water Heater Purchase

You Have Options When Making A Water Heater Purchase

There are so many options when you start exploring a water heater purchase. I was considering a water heater purchase a short time ago and mentioned the possibility of a tankless water heater; my 24-year-old son said, “what’s a tankless water heater.” The fact is most people still do not know what a tankless water heater is. Nevertheless, tankless water heaters are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the latest water heater technologies.

Learn About The Latest Features Before Making A Water Heater Purchase

One example is a special enamel tank liner called Vitraglas® offers unrivaled protection from water’s corrosiveness. By assisting in preventing the development of bacteria, mildew, and mold that can grow on your tank liner, Microban® antimicrobial technology offers further product protection. For the life expectancy of our water heater, the enamel tank liner provides a lifetime of protective measures. 

The technology doesn’t stop there. For example, we now have intelligent gas controls that use less gas without compromising performance. Additionally, some units have eco-friendly technologies that use 75% less NOx emissions than standard models.  

Ask Questions And Do Your Research. You’ll Have your heater for the next 10-15 Years, And You Don’t Want Buyers Remorse.

While most homeowners may run down to your local home center when their heater fails, only to get advice from someone who knows little about water heaters. Here are some ideas when making a water heater purchase:

  1. Run a google search on the latest “water Heater Innovation.” You’ll get a good understanding of some of the latest features.
  2. Every plumbing company has its preferred model. Ask what type of heater they prefer and why? Big B’s Plumbing stocks Bradford White heaters and will discuss the benefits of owning one.
  3. Ask about the warranty when making a purchase. This is especially important when it comes to water heaters. 
  4. How much will it cost to install your new heater? Installation costs may vary. However, it’s never wise to make a decision based solely on money. A company’s reputation is important as well.
  5. Familiarize yourself with tankless water heaters. They produce water on demand, use less energy than conventional storage tank heaters, and take up a fraction of the space. We recommend Navian tankless heaters. 
Tankless Water Heater Installation and Repair In Murrieta, CA.

A Fact To Consider Before You Make A Water Heater Purchase

The average household spends $400 to $600 on heating water each year. According to the Department Of Energy, fourteen to eighteen percent of our utility bill comes directly from heating our water, which accounts for the second-largest expense in our home. Typically a water heater will last 10 – 15 years, maybe longer if well maintained. Across the U.S., 27 million water heaters are more than ten years old. That number is staggering and if you’re one of the 27 million, start doing your research now. No longer look at your water heater as a purchase or another expense but rather a long-term investment. 

We Typically Do Not Have Many Fuel Choices Without Modification To Our Energy Supply

When choosing a new water heater, you’ll need to decide on a fuel choice. In most instances, your home will decide for you unless you want to change your fuel source. In Riverside, Inland Empire, and San Diego, our fuel sources powering the heaters are usually natural gas, electricity, and propane in some rural areas. Unfortunately, we typically don’t have many options regarding our energy source because our homes get built with the type of power we’ll be using. 

In Some Areas, Your Only Choice May Be Electric 

In some areas, electricity was the only power available when your home was built. However, years later, natural gas was made available. So the question is, do you switch to natural gas before purchasing a water heater? Natural gas is the cleanest of all fossil fuels, although it isn’t as pure as wind or solar electricity. Many experts believe that natural gas will play a significant role in transitioning to a greener future. 

The U.S. is A Top Producer Of Natural Gas

And it must be noted; the majority of the natural gas used in the United States is generated domestically, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, the U.S. has moved into first position internationally in the production of natural gas liquids (NGLs) as a result of the boom in natural gas production in the country.

So you must consider if it’s available in your area. Then the cost of bringing natural gas into your home. Will the long-term savings outweigh the cost of new gas lines? Sometimes, a homeowner may want the benefits of natural gas regardless of cost. Whatever the case, natural gas is one option when purchasing a water heater purchase.

Water Heater Type

You’ll have two choices when deciding on a water heater: Storage tank heaters or tankless heaters, also called on-demand water heaters. Each heater has its own benefits. The storage tank models cost significantly less and are easier to install. Tankless water heaters provide water on demand, take up much less space, and use less energy than a storage tank heater.

You’ll Need To Determine The Size

If you decide on a storage tank heater, then you’ll need to determine the size. There are two ways to calculate the size. First, you’ll need to assess how many gallons of water you use for “peak hour demand.” For example, add the gallons used during that time to give you an idea of the size of the water heater you need to purchase. Another way to calculate size is by the number of people living in your home. See the chart below.

1 to 2 people: 30-40 gallons

2 to 3 people: 40-50 gallons

3 to 4 people: 50-60 gallons

5+ people: 60-80 gallons

Ask your Big B’s Plumbing expert to show you the latest water heater technology. They have both on-demand, tankless water heaters and storage tank heaters in stock, ready for installation. 

Brandon and Family, Licensed plumbing contractor

Family Owned & Operated

My name is Brandon Mageno. I'm the founder, President, and CEO of Big B's Plumbing Company. As the founder, I never thought about being average or good. My passion for being the best plumbing company in Southern California has always been the same. Providing plumbing services to this great county is simply in my DNA. Nothing makes me happier than to see a satisfied customer. Learn More About Us

1 thought on “What To Consider When Making A Water Heater Purchase”

  1. It was interesting when you talked about how there are two ways to calculate the size of a water heater tank. Would it be a good idea to purchase a water heater that is bigger than what you need? It seems like you would never have to worry about running out of water if you purchase a system that is bigger than what you need.

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