Water heaters usually last for 10-12 years. If you have been using the water heater for more than 10 years then you should consider replacing it. A water heater which is damaged or not functioning properly also needs to be renewed. There is a wide range of option when it comes to water heaters. The water heater that you will buy should cater to the requirements of your home. Hence choosing a hot water service is not an easy task.
 |
| Hot Water Heater |
Installation of a water heating system that is energy efficient will help in saving money over energy cost. However, energy-saving water heater usually has a high upfront cost. Let’s take a look at some of the most energy efficient water heaters of present times.
# Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters are also referred to as hybrid water heaters. It draws the heat from the air and then uses it for keeping the water supply warm. These water heaters can only run through the use of electricity and are more energy efficient than a regular electric water heater. This water heating system is considered to be eco-friendly as it doesn’t produce any gas. Moreover, you have the option to set-up the heating system on the ground roof. It has a lifespan of about 15 years.
However, the only problem with this kind of water heater is the installation process. You need to have 2 meters of height clearance from the floor to the ceiling. Also, you must have an allowance of the warm area, about 1,000 cubic feet, to get sufficient heat. Heat pumps also have the highest initial cost.
# Tank-Less Water Heaters
This is one of the most popular water heaters of the present times. The heater has an on-demand technology. This implies that it will make use of the energy when the hot water is in use. Tankless water heating systems are not like the storage water heating tanks where the water is heated all the time. Another significance of this kind of water heater is that you will not have to worry about its replacement for a long period of time since it has a long lifespan.
Apart from being expensive, this water heater also requires additional installation cost. If you switch to these water heaters from a regular unit, you will have to hire a plumber so that he/she is able to fit the system. The hot water service proves to be beneficial if you use natural gas instead of electricity.
# Solar Water Heaters
 |
| Solar Water Heater |
As the name suggests, this water heater utilises solar energy to heat water. The best part about solar energy is that it is not only free but is also a renewable form of energy. Thus, you will not have to depend on fossil fuels. Also, there will be no emissions.
However, if you reside in a cold place, solar water heaters will not be of any help. Even though the water heating units can be used for winter or cloudy weather, it will not be able to absorb sufficient sunlight for utilising the solar water heating system.
Benefits of Energy Efficient Water Heaters
- These water heaters use less energy than the regular water heaters. Thus, it will help you save money in the long run.
- Energy efficient water heaters can lead to less indoor as well as outdoor air pollution. It also reduces the discharge of waste products into the landfills.
- Tank-less hot water service will utilise less water. This is simply because they do not have storage tanks. This reduces consumption of water.
However, it is important to choose hot water service that caters to your requirements. Once installed make sure that you maintain it properly.