What to Consider When Buying a New Water Heater

Water heaters, on average, last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. This means that when your water heater finally breaks down, it’s important to examine what you need in a replacement. The Plumbing Doc, your trusted plumber in Bakersfield, CA, presents these considerations when buying a new water heater.

Gas vs Electricity

Determining the fuel source of your current water heater can make it easier for you to find a replacement. Water heaters run on either gas or electricity. Although gas water heaters have a higher up-front cost than electric ones, their operating cost is lower.

Gas water heaters, on the other hand, need special ventilation and regular water heater services to function smoothly and safely.

Energy Factor Rating

The water heater is usually the third-highest energy consumer at home. As the go-to name for water heater repair in Bakersfield, CA, we encourage you to find a water heater that is energy efficient. New water heaters tend to have higher energy ratings due to the strict energy standards laid out by the federal government.

You can check the Energy Factor (EF) rating on your chosen water heater unit to see just how efficiently the water heater turns energy into heat. A higher EF means a more efficient water heater.

Tank vs Tankless

Most homeowners in America have a tank storage water heater. With this type of heater, water is continuously heated and stored. Because the water is always heated, energy is wasted even when you are not using the water.

Nowadays, you can reduce waste by up to 30% by installing a tankless water heater. With this heater, cold water is heated when needed. Although you don’t run out of hot water with these tanks, the flow rate is not that strong.

The Wrap Up

There are many things to consider when purchasing a water heater. If you need expert help with water heater replacement, The Plumbing Doc can help you. Call our team or fill out our contact form today for an appointment.