When you buy a new water heater for your home, it is important to choose a unit that is the right size. One that is too large may use unnecessary energy, and a unit that is too small can leave you with showers that turn cold. This guide will cover common types of water heaters and teach you how to determine the right size for your specific needs.
Storage Tank Water Heater
This is the most common type of water heater. Its size is measured in its gallon capacity for the tank. If your household size is one or two people, a tank that holds 30 to 40 gallons is likely suitable. For two or three people, it is better to have a tank that holds 40 to 50 gallons. A tank that holds 50 to 60 gallons is ideal for a household with three or four people. If you have five or more people, choose a tank with a capacity of 60 gallons or more. For tank-based water heaters, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends choosing a capacity based on peak-hour demand. For instance, families may use more water during the morning hours to take showers and wash dishes.
Tankless Water Heater
As its name suggests, a tankless water heater does not hold and heat water in a large tank. This type heats water as it flows through the system, and the measurement system is a flow rate that indicates gallons per minute. The design of this type of water heater makes it use less energy than a tank-based model. Although it works differently, it is still crucial to pick one with the right flow rate for your needs. Consider the number of bathrooms in your home to choose the right one. If you have one or two bathrooms, a flow rate of 3 GPM to 5 GPM is good. A rate of 7 GPM to 9 GPM is better if you have three or four bathrooms. For five or more bathrooms, consider a unit with a higher flow rate or multiple tankless water heaters. Most typical household activities demand about 1 GPM to 3 GPM. Some examples of common household activities include taking a shower, washing dishes and using a washing machine.
Prioritizing Energy Efficiency
If you want to maximize energy efficiency, there is more to picking a water heater than choosing an ideal size for your needs. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends looking for ENERGY STAR units. Water heaters that have this label meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency attributes. Although some ENERGY STAR units may have a higher price tag, they typically offer better long-term savings on utility costs. As a rule, tankless water heaters are considered more efficient than tank models. This is especially true in warmer climates like Lakeland. In colder climates, they must work harder to heat incoming water and may not be as efficient. If you choose a water heater with a tank, consider the first-hour rating as well. It measures how much water your unit can deliver during its first hour of use. Look for one that exceeds your peak-hour demand if your household uses a high volume of water during peak hours.
Find the Right Water Heater in Lakeland
Picking the right size and type of water heater takes some time and effort. Be sure to observe water usage for your household and consider peak times. Use the guidelines provided earlier for picking a tankless or tank-based water heater with the right capacity. If you need help choosing the right water heater, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing can help. Our professionals can recommend ideal products for your needs. We can also remove old water heaters and install new ones. Please contact us to learn more about choosing a water heater in Lakeland, Florida.