Which Water Heater is Right for My Home

The back-to-school season is a busy one, and with long to-do lists, lunch packing, and coordinating schedules, the last thing you need is a water heater malfunction. So, if your water heater is acting up, it is time to ask yourself—do I have the right water heater for my home?

When it comes to finding the correct unit for your hot water demand and lifestyle, follow the Gibson’s Heating & Plumbing water heater guide:

Storage-Tank Water Heaters

If you want to go the traditional route, storage-tank water heaters are for you. In an insulated, temperature-controlled tank, your water will be monitored by a thermometer and heated to your desired temperature. If a change in your water temperature is detected, your system will kick on and reheat the water stored in your tank. That way, you have heated water at the ready!

This cyclical process, although reliable, demands a lot of energy. As a result, your utility costs will increase. Yet, with the low upfront cost of installation, this is slightly offset. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly new system, a traditional water heater is your best option! This is also great if you are updating a temporary home, as you will likely sell your property before you rack up enough in utility costs to counter the low-installation price.

Tankless Water Heaters

If you are coordinating shower schedules to avoid encountering the ever-dreaded cold shower, a tankless water heating system may be your best fit! Avoid bouts of cold water with either a point-of-use system or a whole-home network. How do these units work?

With this appliance, when you turn a handle on a plumbing fixture in your home, your water heater will activate its heating coils, which line your piping. These heating coils provide on-demand heating that will warm your water as it passes over the coils. That way, when the water reaches your hands, it has already hit your desired temperature.

This heating process is extremely energy-efficient, as it solves the traditional heating systems one major downfall—standby heat loss. How is this accomplished? Tankless water heaters are able to eliminate standby heat loss by only adjusting water temperature when you are using a faucet or a shower.

So rather than going through many heating cycles, whether you are using hot water or not, tankless systems expend no energy until you turn on your plumbing fixtures. This technology comes at a higher installation price; although, this cost will be offset over time by your lowered utility bills. The value of this system will prove beneficial if you are in your forever home, as decreased operational costs will outweigh the initial price tag. Not to mention, those with larger families or high rates of water consumption will experience significant savings and better hot water at home.

For your hot water heater upgrade, contact Gibson’s Heating & Plumbing, Inc. at  (260) 667-9919 ! We will help you find the perfect fit!

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