A water heater is an essential appliance that is commonly overlooked in many homes. Typically they will provide years of service, and you may never realize that it is either terribly inefficient or even faulty. Here are some tips to help you determine whether your current water heater should be replaced and how to find a brand new one.
First and foremost, it is important to consider energy efficiency. Propane water heaters can be more efficient than electric, but the rising cost of propane is leaving many to consider making the switch to electric. However, electric water heaters, especially older models, can be an incredible drain on your energy.
If your water heater is more than ten years old, chances are it is not as efficient as today’s models. The new Energy Star guidelines have made quite a change in the industry and water heaters that are built today can typically be run all year round for around $20 to $40. Compare that with older models that cost in excess of $60 a year, and you can easily pay for a new water heater in less than two years.
Another common complaint with water heaters is scalding. Whether it’s from someone else in the house flushing a toilet, or running a sink, scalds are very common. This can be very dangerous with young children in the house and no one really appreciates getting scalded with hot water, or frozen with cold.
If your water heater does not have a safety setting that will prevent scalds, it is definitely time to consider replacing it. Today’s models have built in features that can reduce the risk for scalding, and they are much more child friendly. If replacement is not an option, you may want to consider turning the thermostat on your water heater down to reduce the overall temperature of the water in your home. This is an easy fix that can prevent terrible burns.
Another common complaint with older water heaters is capacity, or overall efficiency when it comes to producing hot water on a regular basis. For example, if you have four people in the home, chances are if your water heater is cold, one or more of them will be taking a cold shower if you all go in a row.
Look for a water heater with a bigger capacity in this situation. Forty to fifty gallons is usually appropriate for a bigger family, but depending on water usage and the length of showers, you may need to go bigger. It’s really almost impossible to have a water heater that is too big, unless you are the only person in the home.
Last but not least, there is a tip that many people do not know about. During the summer months, the water in your home’s well or water supply is naturally warmer. Reduce the risks of scalds by turning down your water heater’s thermometer during the summer months. This can also help you save money on energy costs during the summer months.
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Originally posted 2008-10-02 05:13:19. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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