Water heaters come in all shapes and sizes, which is primarily why it’s in your best interest to know the difference! We’re used to seeing pictures of water heater tanks, but would it surprise you to learn that nearly half of all the water heaters in existence today don’t even use tanks? These are called on-demand water heaters and they’re extremely popular.
But these kinds of water heater upgrades aren’t for every customer or every home. This blog post is going to talk about several distinct types of water heaters and how water heater service in Cedar Rapids, IA might differ depending on which on you choose. The more informed you are about the technology and the services we offer, the more likely you’ll be to make a smart choice when your financial future depends on it.
So, let’s get into it. Keep reading to learn about the water heater system that might be absolutely perfect for your home!
What are the key steps when installing a boiler?
- Evaluate your heating needs: Determine the right boiler size based on your home’s square footage, insulation, and number of bathrooms or radiators.
- Choose the right boiler type: Options include combi, system, or conventional boilers. Consider fuel type and energy efficiency.
- Prepare the installation site and obtain permits: Ensure adequate space, proper ventilation, utility access, and secure any required local permits.
- Remove the old boiler: Safely shut off utilities, drain the system, and disconnect the existing unit.
- Install the new boiler: Mount the unit, connect water and gas lines, install exhaust vents, and configure controls.
- Test and commission the system: Check for leaks, confirm settings, test safety features, and ensure full functionality.
- Provide post-installation care: Flush the system if needed, schedule regular maintenance, and educate the homeowner on use and upkeep.
Conventional Water Heaters
Conventional water heaters use a tank to store water and keep it warm. These tanks can be heated with electricity, natural gas, or other means. The reason why we call them “conventional” is because they’re the most common water heating appliances on the market and they tend to also be the most affordable.
If you’re looking to just replace your old water heater with a new one that doesn’t change things very much, then you might just want to install a new tank water heater. The heating element will depend on your preferred method of heating and the price of energy or fuel in your area–but these are great choices for many families.
If you’re looking for a tank water heater that’s a bit different, check out heat pump water heaters down below.
On-Demand Water Heaters
These water heaters are amazingly efficient. They heat water as it enters your house, removing the need for a tank and saving you a lot of space. These can be either electric or powered with natural gas, and they’re great at giving you nearly unlimited hot water (as long as you’ve got the energy for it).
However, they need to be sized correctly so the system isn’t trying to provide too much hot water all at the same time, this is where professional heater inspection and guidance can make a big difference in ensuring your system meets your household’s needs.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters are similar to conventional storage tank water heaters, except with one big change–they use the ambient heat in your home to keep warm. Just like a refrigerator moves heat to keep your groceries cool, a heat pump water heater works in reverse to keep your water hot.
These systems are efficient, eco-friendly, and exceptionally good at providing hot water. But they also tend to be more expensive then more conventional units, which is why it’s important to consider long-term energy efficiency when evaluating your options.
Solar Water Heaters
We get an immense amount of energy from the sun, but most of it is either consumed by plant life or wasted. This energy can now be harnessed by solar panels and used in your water heater for practical, free, and easy hot water.
Technology is still advancing, meaning that solar water heaters are still expensive when compared to other conventional water heater systems. But they’re extremely efficient to the point where they can practically pay for themselves in just a few years. Like any solar appliance, this is an investment, and with a new, energy-efficient system, solid maintenance can help you see returns very quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the main types of water heaters I should consider?
Answer: The primary options are: conventional (storage tank) heaters, on-demand (tankless) heaters, heat pump water heaters, and solar water heaters. Each uses a different method to heat or store water and has pros and cons in efficiency, cost, space, and energy usage.
Question: What are the advantages of conventional tank water heaters?
Answer: Conventional tank models are generally more affordable to purchase and install, they are familiar technology, and they provide reliable hot water with simple setup. They can use electricity, gas, or other fuels.
Question: What are the drawbacks of tank water heaters?
Answer: They have standby heat loss since water is stored and kept hot even when not in use, require more frequent maintenance like flushing to remove sediment, take up more space, and may have higher long-term energy costs.
Question: How do on-demand (tankless) water heaters compare?
Answer: Tankless heaters heat water only when needed, which reduces wasted energy and saves space. However, they must be properly sized for peak use, can have higher installation costs, and might need upgrades to gas or electrical systems.
Question: What should I consider when choosing a water heater for my home?
Answer: Key factors include your household’s hot-water demand, available fuel or energy source, space limitations, upfront versus long-term costs, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Rapids area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online.