Electric, Solar, And Gas! Oh My! What You Should Know About Your Water Heater Options
You may find there are more water heater options available to you when you get ready for an upgrade. Most homeowners tend to think there are only electric and gas options. The truth is there are three main category options and several options within those categories. Before you get ready to purchase your next water heater, consider what each category option can offer you:
Electric Water Heaters
The electric heater is a traditional option and still offers several benefits for the homeowner. One of the key benefits is the ability to go tankless. Most tankless hot water heaters run on electric current. You also have a higher chance of safety with an electric heater. This is due to the absence of gas power which can cause a leak and lead to a possible explosion.
If you decide to remain with a traditional electric water heater, consider having a timer installed on the tank. This will cut your overall energy bills since your water will only be heated during certain times of the day instead of all hours of the day and night.
Gas Water Heater
A gas water heater is an option that has several advantages, including the ability to cut your energy costs. One of the reasons that many homeowners go with a gas water heater is actually connected to the weather. If you have power outages, you can still heat your water for cooking as well as bathing and other daily needs.
You do have to maintain some sense of safety and precaution when you use gas. An ideal precaution to take, if you choose a gas water heater, is a carbon monoxide alarm. This can be placed anywhere in the home and it will alert you to possible issues or gas leaks.
Solar Water Heater
Solar water heaters are known for being energy efficient and saving money over the years. They are slightly more expensive to install, but your savings can be evident within the first few billing cycles. A solar water heater will require you to have solar panels or some form of solar power conductor installed and may require more than a plumber for the installation.
The benefit of a solar water heater is the ability to heat your water during various types of weather conditions and during power outages. If you want to save money on future energy costs, and heat your water during power outages or without the use of traditional energy methods, this may be the ideal option.
These are just three of the water heater options you have available to you. For more information on installation and which model may be best for your needs, contact your local plumbing professional. To learn more, contact a company like Clean Plumbers By Phillip Maurici Plumbing Inc. with any questions you have.