Understanding Different Water Heaters
Heated water plays a critical role in every aspect of modern life, from cooking to cleaning. You need to understand some basic elements of a water heater to select the right one. Modern water heating systems with tanks typically range from 30 to 80 gallons. Flow rates for tankless systems range from four to 10 gallons per minute. At peak demand in both cases, the lower end of the capacity scale will cover the needs of a household of two people while the higher end will cover a household of as many as six people.
You should look for a water heater with other desirable features to maximize efficiency and performance while minimizing maintenance. Insulating the water heater is a good choice in this part of the country. High-efficiency models are also great for saving on gas or electricity, and you can look for ENERGY STAR certification. You may want to look at a model that has an easy-to-use system for replacing the heating element, too.
Our plumbers can work on a wide range of types of water heaters.
- Tankless
- Electric
- Gas
- Solar
Whether you’re installing a new water heater or dealing with an older model, you also need to know how to check for signs of issues with the system. Watch for water discoloration because rusty water is a possible sign of corrosion in the tank or the lines. Changes in water pressure could indicate that scale is building up in the water heater, a sign that the unit requires a flush. Look for potential leaks in the vicinity of the tank every three months or so, too.