Do you realize all of the various ways that the hot water supplied by a water heater, also known as a hot water tank, is used throughout your home? When you need to wash your hands or take a shower, it's essential to have a hot water heater that's optimally functioning. This is an important appliance in your home, so when your existing one starts to fail, it's time to have a new water heater install completed by local professionals. Before that can happen, you must first select a new water heater. This article will take a closer look at six factors to look for in a new hot water heater.

1. The Type of Water Heater

When you say the words "water heater," most people think of a conventional water heater storage tank. While this is the most common type of water heater, recent advancements in technology have increased the number of offerings available. Other types of home water heaters include tankless water heaters, power-vented water heaters, and electric hybrid water heaters. When you're selecting a water heater, the first thing that you need to do is select one of these options.

Learn the pros and cons of each option and work with a professional to determine which may be ideal for you. To understand the impact all of these different options can have on your home, take the time to schedule an estimate with a local plumbing company. This estimate will also allow you to receive the most accurate assessment of the cost and timeline associated with the water heater install process.

2. The Size of the Tank

If you've decided to go with a traditional hot water tank, you need to decide what size of tank you need. One of the most common mistakes that homeowners make is using the same-sized tank that was already in place. While it seems like a good idea, if the original tank was installed to accommodate the needs of fewer people or if the tank was the wrong size for the property in general, it can have a drastic impact on your property.

A water heater professional can help you determine what size of tank is ideal for your home based on the number of people living in your home, the size of the water fixtures and features present in your home, and how much hot water you use at any given time. If your tank is too small, you won't have enough hot water and if it's too large, you can waste a lot of money heating water you won't use right away. To guarantee you're able to receive quick and reliable assistance when selecting a water tank, call a company that's locally owned and operated to provide you with an estimate.

3. The Fuel Type

Water heaters can be powered in a number of different ways. Electricity and natural gas are the two most common fuel types used to power water heater tanks, but they aren't the only fuel types available. Fuel oil is able to be used in certain models of hot water tanks. A professional can help you determine which option may be best for your home based on the current fuel types available in your area. To have peace of mind during the installation process, it's essential to hire a company that has received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

4. The Energy Efficiency Rating

When considering the different options of tanks available, it's important to consider the impact they will have on your home energy consumption costs. Every new water heater will have an energy efficiency rating on it. This rating helps to indicate how much energy the tank uses, and how efficient the tank is. The energy efficiency rating will be indicated by the markings of EF on the box.

In addition to considering the EF rating, you should also take into account the recovery efficiency rating, the standby losses, and the cycling losses. The professional you hire for the water heater install can help you understand what all of these ratings mean, helping you to hone in on the unit that meets your desired energy usage. This will allow you to keep your monthly expenses down. Find a company that has been in business for over nine decades in order to feel confident in entrusting its expertise when selecting a unit that's right for the energy consumption needs of your property.

5. The Manufacturer

While the basic mechanics behind traditional water heater tanks are the same, there are many differences from one manufacturer's products to another. The quality of the material used and the lifespan of the item can vary tremendously between different brands. As such, if you're looking to have a new water heater install completed by local professionals, you need to really research various brands of water heaters.

Consider the elements where you live and what elements your tank will be subjected to. Then read reviews to find out what manufacturers produce quality and long-lasting tanks for your specific needs. Talk to the plumbing professionals to learn more about the pros and cons associated with different brands that are available in the market in order to find the one that's the right fit for your property. Hire one that provides a guarantee on all of its services so you can be certain to get high-quality care throughout the installation process.

6. The Cost

In a perfect world, you would be able to select whatever product was right for you, based on the specs of the product. However, cost plays a huge role in the products you end up buying as well. You need to ensure that the new hot water heater that you select fits into your budget. According to Forbes, replacing a water heater costs an average of $1,200. That includes the cost of the new water heater as well as the cost of the water heater install.

Take the time to compare prices for both the water heater itself and the installation costs to find out what options are available within your budget. It's also important to take the time to learn if local plumbing companies in your area offer any discounts or coupons for water heater installation services. This can help you have the tank installed without having to break the bank. If you're looking for the best deal possible, hire a water heater installation company that offers price matching for services provided by local competitors.

Your hot water heater plays a key role in your home. It helps supply the hot water that is needed to complete many tasks around the household, and to ensure everything, including yourself, is clean and sanitary. When an existing hot water heater is no longer able to keep up with the needs of your household, has cracked or is leaking, is rusted or corroded, or is failing to work, it's time to purchase a new hot water tank. Paying attention to the factors listed above will help you select a new tank, so a professional can complete the water heater install process. If you need a new water heater install completed, call Martel Plumbing & Heating today and let us help you find and install the right water heater for your home.