Water heaters provide hot water for daily activities such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning. A plumber can install different types of water heaters, including condensing, point-of-use, and indirect heaters. Here are seven types of water heaters:
1. Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters
Conventional storage tanks are one of the most common water heaters plumbers install. The insulated tank heats and stores water for later use. These are available in electric, natural gas, and propane models, depending on your home’s energy source. Conventional storage tanks can typically hold 20 to 80 gallons, enough for a small to large household. As hot water is used, cold water enters the tank and is heated. This makes sure you always have a full tank of hot water.
2. Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters
With a tankless water heater, water heats up as it passes through the system after the tap is turned on. This space-saving design is suitable for smaller homes or apartments. Since tankless water heaters only heat water as needed, your home’s energy efficiency may improve. They are available in electric, natural gas, and propane models to suit each customer’s energy preferences.
3. Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters transfer heat from the air or ground to warm the water. They use electricity to power their operation and are usually energy-efficient. These heaters usually work best in warm climates where the ambient temperature is regularly above 40ยฐF. They usually have a storage tank to provide homeowners with a constant supply of hot water.
4. Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters utilize energy from the sun to heat water, which makes them environmentally friendly. To convert heat into electricity, they need solar collectors, which are usually mounted on the property’s roof to capture sunlight. Solar water heaters often have a backup system, such as an electric or gas heater, for cloudy days.
5. Condensing Water Heaters
Condensing water heaters are similar to conventional tanks, but they capture exhaust gases to use heat that would otherwise be wasted. This process makes them energy efficient, especially for homes that use natural gas. For homeowners who need a large supply of hot water, these tanks can usually store 55 gallons or more. While they can have a higher upfront cost than standard models, their efficiency may save on energy costs in the long term.
6. Point-of-Use Water Heaters
Small point-of-use water heaters are located near fixtures such as sinks or showers to provide instant hot water. They eliminate the wait time for hot water to travel through pipes, saving water. Usually, these heaters are electric and tankless, which means they are compact and energy-efficient. These are suitable when hot water is required in remote areas of the house only occasionally. They are relatively easy to install and are good for small-scale applications.
7. Indirect Water Heaters
An indirect water heater works with your home’s space heating system to heat water in a tank. A heat exchanger uses heat from a boiler to efficiently warm your home’s water supply. These heaters are a good choice in cold climates where the boiler is often used. They provide a constant supply of hot water and can be energy efficient. Installation is often complex and requires the assistance of a professional.
Working With Plumbers
Conventional storage tanks provide ample hot water supplies, whereas tankless models are space-saving and energy-efficient. Eco-friendly heat pumps and solar heaters are good options for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Experienced plumbers can evaluate your home’s hot water needs and recommend a heating system that is right for you. Contact a plumber today for assistance with the installation and maintenance of your water heater.