Choose the Type of Water Heater

Most homes will have a standard storage tank water heater, but when that stops working and they don't have hot water anymore, the homeowner may want to consider if that's the right type for their needs. They may also want to look into a tankless water heater, a heat pump water heater, or a solar water heater to see if one of those will be a better option. One of those may fit their needs better, or they may decide they want to stick with the storage tank water heater like the one the home already has. 

Pick Out the Right Size

Next, the homeowner will want to make sure they choose the right size water heater for the home. If there are only one to two people in the home, a water heater that holds 30-40 gallons might be a good fit. For larger families, a water heater that holds 50 to 80 gallons may be needed to make sure there is plenty of hot water during the day. For a tankless water heater, base the size purchased on the expected or needed flow rate for the area, such as about two gallons per minute for the shower. 

Look at Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is also a consideration for homeowners today, as they will want to minimize how much they spend but still have access to hot water when they need it. Today, a heat pump water heater is the most efficient type, but others can be designed to be more efficient than the older counterparts, so even if the homeowner gets a different type, they can find one that's energy-efficient to help them save as much money as possible. Look for Energy Star ratings on water heaters to learn more.

Consider Installation Costs

It's a good idea to consider how much it costs to install the water heater, as this can vary significantly based on the type of water heater. If the new one is the same type as the old one, installation costs are going to be significantly lower. If anything needs to be changed with the house, such as running new pipes, the cost can increase, so it is important to consider this before making any decision. Of course, homeowners don't have to stick with the same type, but it is a good idea to understand costs and how the change can impact them. 

If you're in need of a new water heater, take the time to find the perfect one for your needs. Working with the experts will make it easier for you to find one that's going to be energy-efficient, sized properly for the hot water your household uses, and more. Schedule a time to meet with a professional today to learn more about your options and how to choose the right water heater.