A water heater provides instant access to hot water and helps you save time. It makes housework easier and can help you get through cold winter mornings. In addition, it is an important investment, as it saves on energy costs and can be used to power your washing machine and hot water heater simultaneously. If you’re wondering what type of water heater you need for your home, read on to learn more about the types and costs of water heaters.

Common uses of a water heater

Hot water is a luxury in the Victorian era, and people would boil buckets of water to fill up their bath tubs. Later, the steam age took over, and boilers became the primary heat source for homes. Today, water heaters are used in many different applications, including washing, showering, and dishwashing. But despite these conveniences, water heaters still consume a considerable amount of energy.

Your water heater is the second most energy-intensive appliance in the average American home. It accounts for about 15 percent of your total energy bill. Using an incorrectly sized water heater will waste hundreds of dollars a year. Most people only consider replacing an old water heater when they find themselves in a plumbing emergency, so a little research beforehand will go a long way. In addition, if you are planning to move to a new area, make sure your water heater meets the building codes of the state you’re moving to.

Types of water heaters

Considering buying a new water heater? There are many different types to choose from. They can be compact, medium, or standard configurations. In addition to their size and configuration, water heaters can also vary in efficiency. You’ll want to consider the type of water heater that’s right for your home. To learn more, keep reading for some tips to select the best water heater for your home. We hope this guide has helped you select a new water heater for your home.

A tank-style water heater includes a storage tank for the water. The size of the tank directly relates to the amount of hot water available at one time. Tankless heaters save up to 90% on monthly utility bills. They are also more difficult to install and take longer to heat up. They aren’t suitable for large homes and aren’t recommended for households with more than three people. But if you have a small home, a tankless water heater is likely the right choice for you.

Costs

How much does a water heater cost in your home? How much will you spend on installation? What fuel source does it use? The type of heater you choose will influence the cost. Direct-fired heaters are the most expensive, while indirect-fired models receive heat from your furnace or boiler. Electric heaters and solar-powered heaters are cheaper, but both require some upfront investment. Your home’s location also impacts your total cost. For instance, running electrical wires or a gas line can significantly increase installation costs. On the other hand, hooking up an existing gas line can save you money on installation.

Another factor to consider is how much you’d spend on labor. While some homeowners feel confident installing their water heaters themselves, there are many benefits to hiring a plumber to do the job for you. Although it’s not a legal requirement, you still have to pay for labor. On average, a water heater installation costs between $500 and $1500. You’ll have to pay for the labor and materials, so make sure you have enough money to pay for these services.

Placement

The proper placement of a water heater in your home depends on your local regulations. While some states and counties have varying building codes, you can ask the water heater specialist in your area about the basic requirements. For instance, in some areas, water heaters must sit against an exterior wall, on a level surface, so that the gas flow is efficient and there are no hazards during installation. Additionally, some areas require the water heater to sit at least 18 inches off the floor.

The best place for your water heater is in a room that is near a floor drain. You want it to be near the floor drain, so that water can drain away from the house. Although most regions allow drain pans, the dimensions of the drain must be at least two inches deeper than the water heater. The drain pipe must also connect to an adequate drain. Once you have the correct location, you can install the water heater.