To throw cold water on something means to criticize or stop something that some people are enthusiastic about. Sounds pretty mean, doesn’t it? That’s because idioms surrounding cold water give us the shivers as we imagine life without a functioning water heater. Read on to learn more about the options available to you.
Criteria
All of us want hot water on tap for the convenience it offers – be it a relaxing bath or to clear stubborn grease in the kitchen. Ideally you will want to select a water heater installation that is energy efficient, as it not only saves you money, it is the environmentally friendly choice as well.
To determine the most effective system for your needs, you need to take into consideration the perfect size of the water heater. Too big, and you are wasting energy keeping the water hot. Too small, and you will have a very unhappy household!
A major factor in the annual operation costs is the type of fuel used. It is advisable to estimate and compare the annual operating costs of the various water heating systems.
Water heater options:
- Conventional storage water heaters are fueled by natural gas, propane, fuel oil or electricity. A reservoir of hot water is available and released from the top of the tank when you turn on the hot water faucet. Cold water then enters the bottom of the tank to ensure that the tank is always full.
- Tankless water heaters provide hot water only when it is needed: a supply of hot water is delivered when either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water. Characteristically, tankless water heaters provide hot water at a rate of 2–5 gallons per minute. Gas-fired tankless water heaters produce higher flow rates than electric ones. Tankless coil and indirect water heaters use your home’s space heating system to heat water.
- Solar water heaters are cost-effective as the fuel they use – sunshine – is free. Solar water heating systems normally require a backup system for cloudy days.
With over 120 years of experience, the team at Edwin Stipe HVAC & Plumbing, Inc. can help you choose the right water heater for your home. Finance and service plans are available for your convenience. Please contact us for a free estimate.
