If your water heater is over 10 years old and hasn’t been properly maintained, it may be nearing the end of its useful life. Signs such as leaks, rust, or inconsistent hot water are strong indicators that it’s time for a replacement. Rather than waiting for an emergency, it’s a good idea to explore your options now, such as installing a tankless water heater, which could be a great upgrade for your home.
Maintaining Your Current Water Heater
You can extend the life of your existing water heater with some routine maintenance. Lowering the temperature to a moderate level, periodically flushing sediment from the tank, and replacing the anode rod are all effective ways to keep your system running efficiently. These simple maintenance tasks can also help reduce energy consumption, saving you money in the long run.
How Much Could You Save with a Tankless Water Heater?
For homes that use up to 41 gallons of hot water daily (common for two-person households), the Department of Energy estimates that switching to a tankless water heater could reduce your hot water costs by 24-34% compared to a traditional storage-tank water heater. However, in homes where hot water consumption is higher (around 86 gallons per day for families of four or more), savings are reduced to around 8-14%. This is because conventional water heaters, in these cases, may have less idle time, resulting in reduced energy loss.
If you have a larger family, sticking with an energy-efficient conventional water heater might make more sense. You can also implement water-saving measures, such as installing low-flow showerheads and energy-efficient dishwashers and washing machines, to reduce hot water usage, which may be more cost-effective than upgrading to a tankless model.
Maximize Energy Savings with Tankless Water Heaters
For greater energy efficiency, you might consider installing tankless water heaters at key points of use, such as near the kitchen, master bathroom, or laundry room. This strategy reduces the length of the pipe run, which minimizes the amount of hot water left in the lines after turning off the faucet. This could lead to savings of 27-50%, though the initial investment in multiple units may offset the savings over time.
Is a More Efficient Storage Heater Right for You?
If you’re replacing an older conventional water heater, it’s worth considering a more efficient storage model. Many manufacturers have made significant improvements in energy efficiency. By checking the yellow energy guide label, you can compare the energy consumption of different models. Weighing the pros and cons of upgrading to a highly efficient storage water heater versus installing a tankless unit can help you make the best decision for your home.
Comparing Leading Water Heater Brands
Here’s a brief overview of some top water heater brands that might be worth considering:
- GE: Known for both gas and electric models, GE offers a range of tank sizes and energy-efficient models, including the GeoSpring heat pump electric water heaters. These units are available exclusively at Home Depot.
- Kenmore: A trusted brand for gas and electric water heaters, Kenmore offers various sizes and configurations, including Power Miser and Hydrosense electronic temperature control models. You can find Kenmore water heaters at Sears.
- Rheem: A well-known name in the industry, Rheem offers gas and electric water heaters in tank, tankless, and point-of-use options. They also provide solar-compatible systems and a variety of sizes with different energy-efficiency ratings. Rheem products are available at Home Depot and through an authorized network of dealers.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool offers both gas and electric water heaters in multiple sizes, with standard and power-vent configurations. Whirlpool water heaters are available at Lowe’s.
Before making a final decision, be sure to compare the various models and sizes based on your household’s hot water needs and energy preferences. If you’re looking for expert advice or need help installing a new water heater, the team at Rivers Plumbing, Heating, and Air is here to assist. Contact us today to explore your options and ensure you have the best solution for your home’s water heating needs!