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Looking for a new Water Heater Consider the Many Different Types Before Making a Selection

Types of Water Heaters

There is no shame in admitting you are unsure of the differences between the many different water heaters on the market. It is better to declare your ignorance on this subject matter at the outset and seek guidance rather than purchase the wrong type of water heater and regret the decision. Do not lose sight of the fact that you will likely purchase merely one or two water heaters in your entire lifetime. Take your time, review all the options and you will find the perfect new water heater for your home.

Tankless Water Heaters

Technology has progressed to the point that it is possible to warm up water for use in your home without a tank. In fact, tankless water heaters can provide a seemingly endless amount of hot water for those living in your home. This type of water heater relies on heated coils as opposed to a traditional tank. The coils fill up with water that is subsequently heated in an on-demand fashion. In fact, some of those who work with water heaters refer to the tankless variety as on-demand water heaters.

If you need to heat water right away or if you have a large family living in your house and require an abundance of hot water for morning showers, this type of water heater will serve you well. You can choose from an array of different sizes. Just make sure the tankless water heater size you select can keep up with the water usage in your home. Small models typically function best in homes with natural gas for water heating while bigger models often mandate large gas lines.
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The Traditional Water Heater

Conventional water heaters have regular storage tanks in which water is heated. This type of water heater is by far the most popular. Traditional water heaters can only heat as much water as the tank can hold. The tank features insulation so the water stays warm after heating up. Traditional water heaters feature a pressure control valve and a temperature control valve. The temperature control valve is designed to open to transmit heat and regulate temperature. The pressure release valve opens to reduce pressure when it hits 150 psi

The Heat Pump

Also known as a water heater hybrid, the heat pump is ideal for those looking to save money on their electricity bill as it does not generate heat in a direct manner. This type of water heater is different in that it relies on heat within the air and also the ground to warm up water. Electricity is only required to shift heat from the ground/air to the water rather than creating heat to warm water on its own. Opt for a heat pump water heater and you will save upwards of 60% on your electricity bill. However, the pump is positioned on the top of the unit so this water heater will require some extra clearance space.
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Condensing Water Heater

A condensing water heater relies on the home’s gas fumes to warm up water. This type of heater is optimal for homes that rely on natural gas for energy. Warmed exhaust is funneled from the home’s natural gas system in order to heat water. This water is then stored in the tank similar to the traditional water heater detailed above. The gas fumes move through coil positioned along the tank bottom to warm up the water. Minimal energy is required in order to heat water yet you will need a condensing water heater with a large enough tank to accommodate everyone in your home.
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Solar Powered Water Heater

Solar powered water heaters empower you to obtain energy directly from the sun. If your home has solar panels or if you are thinking of adding such panels, you should give serious consideration to a solar powered water heater. This type of water heater is incredibly efficient as it is dependent on solar panels mounted to the roof for energy. The energy is transmitted through a closed loop system with heat conductive material to warm water within the tank. The only downside is you will need a backup such as electricity or natural gas in order for the water heater to produce warm water when the sun is not shining.