Time for a New Home Water Heater? Here’s What You Should Consider
When it’s time to replace your water heater, the process can feel overwhelming. With so many options and factors to consider, it’s easy to put off making a decision. But the good news is, with a little knowledge, choosing the right water heater doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide will walk you through the basics, so you can feel confident you’ve gotten the right size water heater—and remember, Lanz Inc. is always here to help you make the best decision for your home!
Understanding Your Household’s Hot Water Needs
The first step is to assess your home’s daily hot water demand. Consider the number of people in your household and the number of bathrooms and appliances that use hot water (e.g., dishwashers, washing machines).
- Small households (1-2 people): Typically, these homes use less hot water, requiring smaller water heaters.
- Medium households (3-4 people): As more people use hot water, you’ll need a unit with a higher capacity.
- Large households (5+ people): Larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms will need a bigger water heater to ensure there’s enough hot water to go around.
✱ Tip: Keep track of when you run out of hot water to see if your current system is undersized for your needs!
Consider Peak Hour Demand
To determine your water heater size, calculate your household’s peak hour demand. This refers to the hour of the day when you typically use the most hot water. For example, if your family takes showers, runs the dishwasher, and does laundry around the same time, that would be your peak hour demand.
- A typical shower uses about 10 gallons of water
- Dishwashers and washing machines can use anywhere from 5 to 20 gallons per cycle.
✱ Tip: Add up the hot water needs during your busiest hour, and that total will give you a better idea of the size you need.
Choosing the Right Type of Water Heater: Tank vs. Tankless
Next, decide between a traditional tank water heater and a tankless model.
- Tank Water Heaters: These traditional water heaters store water in a tank, and their size is measured in gallons. For a household of 1-2 people, a 30-40 gallon tank may be sufficient. For 3-4 people, look for a 40-50 gallon tank. For larger households, you may need a 50-80 gallon tank.
- Tankless Water Heaters: These heat water on demand, so there’s no need for a storage tank. Instead, you’ll need to assess the flow rate (gallons per minute, or GPM) to determine the right size. For example, if your peak hour demand is 6-8 GPM, choose a tankless heater that can meet that flow rate.
✱ Tip: Consider your household’s usage patterns and budget to decide which option suits your long-term needs.
Factoring in Energy Efficiency
Choosing the right size water heater isn’t just about making sure you have enough hot water—it’s also about efficiency. A water heater that’s too large for your needs will use more energy than necessary, raising your utility bills. A unit that’s too small will be overworked, leading to higher maintenance costs and a shorter lifespan. Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings, which measure how efficiently the unit converts energy into hot water.
- Tankless models tend to be more efficient since they heat water only as needed.
- Tank models can still be efficient, especially newer versions designed to reduce standby heat loss.
✱ Tip: Be sure to consider the fuel source—electric, gas, or propane—as this affects both the upfront and long-term costs.
Consulting a Professional for Accurate Sizing
Even with all this knowledge, consulting a professional ensures you choose the right water heater for your home’s unique requirements.
A plumber can help you:
- Accurately size your unit based on your household’s usage
- Navigate the latest brands and models to find the best match
- Address installation requirements and energy efficiency concerns
✱ Tip: Relying on a professional not only makes the process smoother but ensures your new water heater performs efficiently for years to come.
Ready to Upgrade Your Water Heater?
Choosing a new water heater doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear understanding of your home’s needs, awareness of the options, and help from a professional, you can make the right choice with confidence. And remember, Lanz Inc. in Champaign, IL, is here to guide you through every step—why call anyone else?
Call 217-394-1380 anytime or get in touch with us online to discuss getting the right size water heater and your installation options!
