Buying a Hot Water Heater

When it’s time to buy a hot water heater, there are a number of choices to consider for both residential and commercial applications. Below is a brief description of the main types of water heaters to help you make the decision that best fits your home or business.
Tankless Water Heater
The tankless water heater is also known as on-demand water heater. That’s because cold water passes through a coil that immediately heats only the water that’s needed at that moment. Unlike traditional water heaters, a tankless water heater does not store water in a large tank. Because these units don’t store water, they take up much less space than traditional water heaters and are also more energy efficient.
Stand Alone Hot Water Heater
A traditional hot water heater is typically installed in closets, attached garages or basements of homes. Some of the decisions to make when you buy a traditional water heater include whether you want a unit to supply water to your entire home or business or just a section. If you decide on a traditional hot water heater, we’ll help you choose one that can meet your capacity needs (this is based largely on the number of bathrooms, bedrooms and family members in your home). Models are available between 20 and 80 gallons.
Gas Hot Water Heater
A gas water heater includes a pilot light, and in many cases, offers the advantage of continuing to supply service even if there is a temporary power outage in your area. While the cost of electricity and natural gas are continually changing over time, gas tends to be a more economical fuel source.
Electric Water Heater
Proponents of the electric water heater point to safety as a reason to choose an electric over a gas water heater. While calamities involving water heaters are extremely rare, those that do occur often involve the gas water heater as opposed to electric models. Also, gas models often require more space than the electric water heater because of ventilation requirements for installation.
Call or stop by Western Mechanical today and let us help you choose your new water heater. Remember, we offer expert installation and can repair or replace your unit if you ever have any problems.

