The New Type of Hot Water Heater
We take our hot water for granted here in the states until our hot water heater stops working. Have you ever taken a cold shower in the middle of winter? That is not a fun situation to be in. Hot water has not always been the luxury that it is today. Up until recently hot water heaters required a lot of energy and therefore made utility bills much higher.
The Differences
When shopping around for a new hot water system you may be overwhelmed by the number of choices out there. It is important to find a professional installer that you trustΒ and can help you through the purchasing process. The different types of hot water heaters on the market today are:
Conventional Storage Tank:
The conventional storage systems are the most common type of water heater. The system consists of an insulated tank where water is heated and stored until needed. You may find this type of hot water tank in many homes. In an effort to keep the life of this system at its max of 12 years it is best to drain and clean it out a few times a year to remove sediment.
Tankless
Tankless water heaters are becoming more and more common as consumers are switching over to energy efficient models. The tankless water heater has a system of coils that heat water by using a flash heating method rather than storing hot water in a large tank. This system is also great for space restrictive living situations.
Heat Pump
Another great system for energy efficiency savings is the heat pump water heater. The heat pump water heater has a method to use heat from the ground or air to heat water in a very efficient and cost-effective manner. This system is sometimes a little more expensive than traditional systems, but you will notice the savings on your energy bill.
Solar
Solar systems use the ever-popular technique of solar power to heat water. These systems are much more common in year-round sunny regions but can be used anywhere with the technology they have to store energy.
Condensing
Condensing Systems are great for gas heating residences and the need for a 55 gallon + tank. The system has a unique coil-controlled technology that lets the heat come into the system much more efficiently.
New Regulations
In 2015, the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act created new minimum standards for the efficiency of residential water heaters set by the United States Department of Energy. All new gas storage tank water heaters with capacities smaller than 55 US gallons sold in the United States in 2015 or later must have an energy factor of at least 60% (for 50-US-gallon units, higher for smaller units), increased from the pre-2015 minimum standard of 58% energy factor for 50-US-gallon gas units. Electric storage tank water heaters with capacities less than 55 US gallons sold in the United States must have an energy factor of at least 95%, increased from the pre-2015 minimum standard of 90% for 50-US-gallon electric units.
This new act has required companies to recreate some top selling products. Fortunately, there is one type of hot water heater that meets these standards and is energy efficient. Your average hot water heater lasts between 8 to 12 years (slightly longer for electric heaters). If you are in the market to purchase a new hot water heater then check out Bradford White Hot Water Heaters. Bradford White has been in the hot water heating business for many years and has quite a few innovative techniques that make them energy efficient. Their exclusive ICON System has a gas-controlled technology that offers energy and time-saving benefits. The Advanced Temperature Control is consistent and provides accurate water temperature levels. The ICON System can be installed by a professional.
References: rotorooter, Bradford white water heaters, NAECA, nortiz.com