Buying a water heater? Here’s a guide

If you lived in a country where even if it is summer, it is still cold, the thought of buying something that can heat you up will cross your mind. In which case, water heaters can be a good choice. Ever thought of buying a water heater? Check out this guide, so you can be aware of what water heater you should buy: 1. The Capacity. Water heaters come in a lot of sizes and you will have to check how much water they can hold, especially if hot water is needed by a lot of people. This can be a tad difficult, though, since water usage varies from person to person. FHR or first-hour rating may help you determine the water usage and the water heater size your family needs. FHR works like this: Count the number of the people in your house and multiply the number by twelve. The number would mean the number of gallons you will need. Still not sure about the FHR, this rule may help: • If your house has two to three people, 40 gallons are enough. • Three to four people may need larger amounts, and should go for 40 to 50 gallons. • More than five people would need 55 gallons. • Eight or more people can need two water heaters. 2. The type. Water heaters also come in different types, mainly four: Conventional, Tankless, Solar and Heat Pump or Hybrid Water Heaters. • If your place is quite cold, do not go for heat pump water heaters since they need hot air to work. • If your place is not that sunny, do not go for solar water heaters since these rely on solar energy or the sun’s rays. • If you want a water heater that can be relied on to spew hot water in an instant, choose a tankless water heater. • If you want a simple and easy to control water heater, opt for the conventional water heater. 3. The Warranty. Water heater warranties usually have a range of 2 up to 12 years. They can differ greatly in terms of cost and length. Your water heater will become a part of your everyday life, that is why you need to also consider the warranty terms before choosing. So, if the water heater became damaged, you would not have to worry about taking out thousands of dollars just because of repairs. Water heaters can have a lot of issues so it would be better if you get the longest warranty. 4. The type of drain valves. Drain valves are those responsible for draining your water heater before maintenance so it would be easier to lift when you move it. They are near the bottom and, typically, it can be made of brass or plastic. While this is not too important to consider, you still have to make this decision. Brass drain valves are prone to damage since they are malleable, however they are more durable and can handle temperature changes. Plastic drain valves are less reactive and are flexible. 5. Energy Efficiency. Since all four types of water heaters have their own specialty, they vary on their energy usage. Conventional water heaters rely heavily one electricity or natural gas. Tankless water heaters also rely on electricity which can spike a bit on your utility bills. Solar water heaters rely on the sun so they would be more energy efficient compared to conventional and tankless. Heat pump water heaters used hot air, to which can save energy. Comfort Plus Chicago 115 E Ogden Ave Ste 105 Naperville, IL 60563 312-471-0588 Visit http://www.chicagocomfortplus.com/