Benefits and Drawbacks of Each Type of Water Heater
When faced with water heater replacement, most homeowners simply order a direct replacement for the faulty unit. However, since water heaters last between 10 and 20 years, it is important to consider all options when making such a big decision. Not taking this opportunity to upsize the water heater or switch utilities can result in unhappy people living in the home for over a decade.
To make the big decision easier, take some time to learn the benefits and drawbacks of different water heater types.
Gas Water Heaters
In most cases, the first decision that a homeowner will have to make regarding a new water heater is the utility that it uses. This boils down to two major options: gas or electric. Gas water heaters are powered by propane or natural gas. A powerful burner ignites as needed to heat water in the storage tank so that an ample volume is ready for use. Gas water heaters tend to be cheaper and more efficient to operate because gas is cheaper to purchase, lowering monthly bills. They also recover their temperatures more quickly, so there is less time between showers to replenish the hot water supply.
The biggest drawback of a gas water heater is its safety concern. Anytime gas service is brought into the home, the threat of a gas leak and carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Gas water heaters also cost more upfront despite typically having lower operational costs than an electric water heater.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are another popular residential water heater option. Instead of a burner, they use electrical resistance to heat water with heating elements housed in the tank. Because they don’t use natural gas, they have fewer safety concerns compared to a gas water heater.
Since electricity is more expensive than gas, operating these appliances is slightly more expensive, but they have lower upfront installation costs. But they will not be available during a power outage because they rely on electricity.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are still a rarity in most homes, but the main reason is that they are relatively new and unknown to most homeowners. Instead of heating and storing water, a tankless water heater will heat the water on demand, as needed. It will keep heating water as long as necessary, supplying endless hot water to the home. Since it can sit idle between times of demand because it doesn’t need to keep a tank of water heated, the overall monthly costs are lower than with a storage water heater. If that weren’t enough, tankless water heaters are more reliable and last longer than storage water heaters, lasting at least 20 years. However, a tankless water heater costs more to install than traditional water heaters.
About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.
VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. offers same-day service, trustworthy technicians, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water heater installation services in Roselle, IL.