Installing the right size water heater for your home is crucial for ensuring a consistent supply of hot water while optimizing energy efficiency. A water heater that’s too small won’t meet your household’s needs, while one that’s too large can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher utility bills.
Plumbers 911 is here to help you determine the right size water heater for your home. Once you have the right size, get a licensed plumbing contractor to install the unit by calling Plumbers 911 for a referral to one of our affiliated contractors.
Understanding Water Heater Sizing
Water heaters come in various sizes, and selecting the appropriate one depends on your household’s hot water demands.
The two main types of water heaters are tank and tankless. Tank water heaters store a certain amount of hot water ready for use, while tankless models heat water on demand. The sizing process varies slightly for each type.
Tank Water Heaters: The size of a tank water heater is measured in gallons, indicating how much hot water it can store. To determine the right size, consider the number of people in your household and your peak hot water usage. For example, a family of four typically requires a 50- or 60-gallon tank, while a smaller household might only need a 30- or 40-gallon tank.
Tankless Water Heaters: For tankless models, size is determined by flow rate, which is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Calculate the total GPM based on peak usage times by considering the number of fixtures and appliances that could be used simultaneously. For instance, a shower, two bathroom sinks, a kitchen sink, dishwasher and washing machine. This calculation can be tricky. By speaking to an affiliated Plumbers 911 contractor, you can be assured you will get a unit that will meet your needs.
Benefits Of Choosing The Right Size
Energy Efficiency: A correctly sized water heater operates more efficiently, reduces energy consumption and lowers utility bills. It ensures you have enough hot water without wasting energy heating excess water.
Consistent Hot Water Supply: With the right size, you’ll have a steady supply of hot water, even during peak usage times. This consistency improves comfort and convenience for your household.
Extended Equipment Lifespan: Properly sized water heaters experience less strain, leading to fewer repairs and a longer lifespan. This saves money on maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Why Hire A Licensed Plumber?
Choosing and installing the right size water heater is not a DIY task.
Licensed plumbers have the expertise to accurately assess your household’s hot water needs. They consider factors like the number of bathrooms, appliances and typical usage patterns to recommend the best size and model.
They also ensure the water heater is installed correctly, adhering to all safety standards and building codes. This prevents leaks, inefficiencies and potential hazards and water damage.
Handling water heaters involves dealing with natural gas lines, electrical connections and plumbing systems. A licensed plumber is trained to manage these safely, reducing the risk of accidents or code violations.
Call Plumbers 911 Today
Installing the right size water heater is essential for meeting your household’s hot water needs. When you are ready to replace your hot water heater, call Plumbers 911 for expert installation and guidance on finding the right unit.
Our network of local, affiliated plumbing contractors are licensed, bonded and insured. They employ highly qualified plumbers who receive over 10,000 hours of training and undergo rigorous background checks.