Is it time for a new water heater?

1. Does your household now require more hot water due to increased use or additional family members?
2. Are your energy bills increasing?
3. Is your current water heater not functioning properly?

Gas or Electric Water Heater?
Gas water heaters and electric water heaters are very similar. Electric models use two heating elements, while gas models have a gas burner at the bottom with the chimney running up through the middle of the tank. Natural gas water heaters normally use less energy and are less expensive to operate than electric models of the same size. Electric water heaters are recommended only where they are the only option.

How do I choose the right tank capacity?
To help size up your home we've provided a simplified chart below. This chart is based on the number of people living in the home, taking into account dishwashers and washing machines. There are also other factors that should be taken into consideration:

1. More than 2 full baths
2. Teenagers tend to use more hot water. We recommend counting teenagers as two people.
3. If your house has a large bathtub or whirlpool your water heater tank should be at least 2/3 of the bathtub. (Example: 75 gallon tub should have 50 gallon water heater tank).

What features should I look for in a water heater?
When purchasing a water heater make sure to look at gallon size, input, recovery and first hour output. As these numbers increase, you will get more reliable hot water. Also, different water heater models offer different features such as C3 Technology, Self-Cleaning, and others. Read below for more information on each feature.

Will the water heater fit in my home?
Take a look at the space where you currently keep your water heater. Know the dimensions of your current water heater and make sure you have room, especially if you're upgrading to a bigger size. If not, you may want to consult with a professional to see if plumbing can be run to a larger area to fit your new unit.

Capacity in Gallons
Refers to the number of gallons your water heater's tank can hold. Making sure your tank's capacity can handle the first hour of peak demand is vital for ensuring that you have enough hot water. Capacities typically range from 30 to 100 gallons on gas models, and from 2 to 119 gallons on electric models.

Recovery (at 90° Rise)
Recovery is based on a 90° Fahrenheit rise in temperature. The recovery rate is an equation for determining the number of gallons heated in one hour. This equation is measured in GPH (gallons heated per hour). The greater the GPH, the more hot water you will have. Recovery rates typically range from 31 to 77 GPH for gas models, and 7.5 to 25 GPH for electric models.

First Hour Output (First Hour Rating)
First hour output or first hour rating is based on how many gallons of hot water can be delivered in the first hour of operation. First hour output is determined by tank capacity and recovery rate. Typical outputs range from 54 to 143 gallons on gas models, and from 41 to 116 gallons on electric models.

Self-Cleaning
Some water heaters are equipped to automatically reduce sediment buildup. Buildup of lime and other sediments in the tank is very bad for a water heater. Self-cleaning water heaters will prevent sediment buildup that eats away the inner lining causing leaks. Also, self-cleaning water heaters can protect from sediment buildup that decreases capacity size. Lastly, sediment buildup can cost you more by blocking effective heat transfer.

Limited Warranty
The length of warranty is very important. Longer limited warranties mean your water heater tank is covered for leaks or malfunctioning components for a greater amount of time. Paying more for a water heater with a long warranty may end up saving you money in the long run.

Revised 05/28/10