Choosing the Right Water Heater

When your water heater is working correctly, it’s easy to forget that it even exists. As long as the hot water keeps flowing, you probably take the everyday luxury of a water heater for granted. But when your home’s water heater breaks down or reaches the end of its life, you have to quickly learn how the heater works in order to find a proper replacement. While this task might seem daunting, Florida Energy Water & Air is here to help with expert advice compiled from years of working with our residential customers throughout the Sunshine State. Read on to discover the differences between water heaters and decide which style is right for you.

Select the Style

One of the most important distinctions between various types of water heaters is the type of fuel it requires. Certain styles may be preferable depending on your local fuel availability and home hookups. Common options include:

Electric

Electric water heaters run on standard electric power and can generally be installed in any modern building with minimal modification to the home. Recent years have seen significant improvements in the energy efficiency of electric heaters, making them a viable option for almost any homeowner.

Gas

Gas water heaters can be designed to run on various gas fuel sources, with propane and natural gas being the most common. Gas heaters are beloved for their ability to quickly heat large volumes of water, which is perfect for large households. Depending on your local fuel costs, gas water heaters can significantly reduce energy costs for homeowners.

Hybrid & Solar

For homeowners in hot or sunny climates, hybrid and solar water heaters might be ideal. Hybrid designs incorporate a heat pump that utilizes hot outdoor temperatures to heat a home’s water supply, and solar heaters harness sunlight to accomplish the same goal. Both styles are remarkably energy efficient but usually incorporate a traditional gas or electric water heater to supplement natural heating.

Modern Technological Upgrades

Another important aspect for any homeowner to consider when choosing a water heater is technological capability. Although the basic design of a water heater has changed little over the years, there are plenty of exciting upgrades to be found in newer models. Before you select a water heater, consider:

On-Demand Options

Tankless or on-demand water heaters have increased in popularity over the years, thanks to a design that lacks the bulky storage tank. They boast impressive energy efficiency and are also perfect for small spaces.

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Many models of water heaters can be upgraded with smart home and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing homeowners to interface with their heaters using an app or website. You can even monitor hot water levels in real-time.

Tank Configurations

Homeowners aren’t stuck with cylindrical storage tanks these days, and modern water heaters can be configured in various shapes and sizes.

Meet the Local Experts

With so many variables to consider when it comes to water heaters, one of the best things any homeowner can do is turn to a local contractor for help—like Florida Energy Water & Air. Our experienced water specialists will help you find the suitable model for your needs and expertly install it for years of reliable performance. Contact us today to learn more.