Water Heaters: Frequently Asked Questions

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters can simply be referred to as providing hot water instantaneously. Rather than maintaining a constant supply of hot water, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. Cold water enters the system and instantly exits, fully heated by either a gas burner or electric resistance heating coils. Not only can tankless water heaters be up to 30% more energy efficient, but also space efficient being significantly smaller than a traditional storage tank. Certainly a lot of upside with operation and performance, the only downside being that all this comes at a premium price. The product itself could be double, sometimes triple the cost of a traditional storage tank, not to mention the installation costs being significantly higher as well. The installer will have to adapt your existing plumbing system to meet the requirements of the tankless system and the installation cost will be predicated on how many modifications have to be made. Tankless water heaters have different requirements for venting, water intake, water output, condensation and electrical connections.

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters store hot water in a tank, while tankless models heat water on demand. Tankless systems are more energy-efficient but may have higher upfront costs.

Storage tank water heaters are the most commonly used, reliable, simple and familiar to installers. They can be powered by natural gas, propane, oil, electric, and hybrid models are now available. When a fixture calls for it, hot water exits from the top of the tank, while cold water enters the bottom for replenishment.

Storage tank water heaters typically operate around the clock due to reheating water when the temperature falls below a certain threshold. While that may sound inefficient, technology has improved along with better insulation to avoid standby heat loss. Check manufacturer labels for Energy Star rating to select the most energy efficient storage tank water heater.

Installation and purchase costs will be significantly lower than a tankless. Little to no modifications will have to be made to the existing plumbing system, product and material costs would also be minimal. As far as performance, the downside is that the water heating process is not instantaneous and the supply of hot water can temporarily run out. If your household seems to frequently run out of hot water, your unit may be undersized and you may want to consider going with a larger storage tank option to meet the demands of your hot water usage.

Gas water heaters are fast and reliable, electric models are affordable and easy to install, and heat pump water heaters are highly energy-efficient but require more space.

Hybrid water heaters combine heat pump technology with traditional heating elements for optimal efficiency and performance.

Common signs include leaks, rusty water, strange noises, or a lack of hot water.

Consider energy efficiency, household size, fuel type, and budget when selecting a new unit.

A professional installation typically takes a few hours to complete safely and efficiently.

A permit is required for most water heater installations in San Francisco to ensure compliance with local codes.

Flush the tank annually, inspect the anode rod, and check for leaks to prolong your water heater's lifespan.

Lower the thermostat to 120°F, insulate the tank and pipes, and regularly flush out sediment buildup.

Look for ENERGY STAR-rated models with smart controls and high-efficiency ratings.

This may be due to a faulty thermostat, broken heating element, or issues with the pilot light.

This can result from sediment buildup, an undersized unit, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Noise may be due to sediment buildup or pressure issues within the tank.

Leaks can be caused by corrosion, a faulty valve, or damage to the tank. Immediate attention is recommended.

Rusty water is often a sign of corrosion within the tank or water pipes.

Costs can vary widely depending on the type of water heater, its efficiency, and installation fees.

Energy efficiency plays a significant role in long-term operating expenses.

Some local incentives and rebates may be available for energy-efficient models.

Consider the energy efficiency ratings when choosing water heaters; higher ratings indicate better performance.

Options include water heaters with high efficiency and sustainability certifications.

Some water heaters are designed to reduce water waste while maintaining performance.

Proper ventilation and regular maintenance minimize carbon monoxide risks associated with gas water heaters.

Adjusting the thermostat to recommended temperatures can help prevent scalding accidents.

Securing water heaters to walls and ensuring proper installation can mitigate risks during seismic activity.

The ideal size depends on occupant count, usage patterns, and energy demands.

Consider peak usage times, home size, and unit efficiency when determining capacity.

Depending on the model and maintenance, lifespans can range from 10 to 15 years or more.

Warranties vary by manufacturer and model; reviewing terms carefully is recommended.

These models allow for remote monitoring and control via smartphone applications.

Integration with smart home systems enhances convenience and energy monitoring capabilities.