Hot water makes up about 16% of the energy bill in an average Canadian home, but this can vary depending on the efficiency of a system.
Having access to a reliable supply of hot water is vital. With various options available, choosing the right type of water heater can be challenging. Rest assured, in this guide, we'll explain how you can select the best water heater for your home. Keep reading and learn more.
Types of Water Heater
Conventional water tanks
Among the most common types of water heaters are conventional water tanks. They are insulated and can hold a large volume of water that you can use throughout the day. You can often get a gas or electric water heater of this type.
Tankless heaters
On-demand (tankless heaters) don't store hot water in the same way. They heat water directly as it is needed, rather than storing hot water in a tank. These can be more efficient, but can only supply a limited amount of hot water at one time so they may not be substantial enough for some homes.
Heat pump water heaters
Heat pump water heaters move heat between different locations rather than generating it. These are another highly efficient option.
Fuel Type
You can typically choose from the following:
Electricity
Fuel oil
Geothermal energy
Natural gas
Propane
You should consider the availability and cost of these different options to determine what would be most suitable.
Criteria to Consider
Each type of water heater has benefits and drawbacks. You need to consider certain factors to find the most suitable type for your home.
Size
Water heater size is one of the first things to consider, especially if you're going for a tank heater. Ensure it is of sufficient size for you and your family to avoid running out of hot water frequently. For tankless water heaters, you should look at the gallons-per-minute (GPM) rating to see how much hot water they can produce at one time.
Performance
Look for a unit that can efficiently produce hot water. The higher the efficiency of your water heater, the less energy it will consume. This can help save you money on your utility bills and will reduce your carbon footprint.
Cost
Set a budget so you know how much you can spend on the installation of your new water heater. In general, a higher-quality water heater will cost more but could save you money when it comes to long-term operational costs.
Warranty
A warranty will give you peace of mind, so the longer, the better. A warranty also suggests that the manufacturer is confident in their product, so you'll be less likely to need to replace it any time soon.
The Right Water Heater for Your Home
There are plenty of water heater options available, so this choice can be tricky. Determine your needs first, then you can start looking at the most suitable options.
Special Gas Services provides hot water tank installation, maintenance, and repairs in Brampton and the surrounding areas. We have been in business for over 55 years. Get your free quote from us today.