My Water Heater: Everything You Need to Know
A water heater is an essential appliance in every home that provides hot water for household activities. It’s an integral part of our daily lives, yet very few of us know much about this important appliance. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at everything you need to know about your water heater.
Types of Water Heaters
There are two main types of water heaters: Tank and Tankless. A tank water heater stores hot water in a tank, while a tankless water heater only heats water on-demand. Tank water heaters are more common in households since they’re more affordable and can easily supply hot water to multiple outlets at once. In contrast, tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient, last longer, and take up less space. Choosing between the two will depend on your household’s hot water needs, budget, and location.
Water Heater Maintenance
Water heater maintenance is vital to ensure that it functions efficiently and lasts longer. Regular maintenance includes flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the pressure relief valve. It would be best to have a professional plumber inspect your water heater annually. Preventive maintenance will help avoid most problems you could encounter with the water heater, such as leaks, sediment build-up, and inadequate heating.
Replacement and Upgrades
A water heater’s average lifespan is between 8-12 years. However, some factors can shorten its lifespan, such as hard water, lack of maintenance, and high usage. Suppose you notice signs such as rusty water, leaks, or a decrease in hot water supply. In that case, it may be time to replace your water heater. Make sure that you get a new water heater that fits your household’s hot water needs, energy-efficient, and budget-friendly.
Energy Efficiency
Water heating is the second-largest expense in most homes’ energy bills, accounting for nearly 18% of the total cost. Upgrading to an energy-efficient water heater can save you a considerable amount of money in energy bills annually. It’s essential to consider the Energy Factor (EF) rating when choosing a water heater. The higher the EF rating, the more efficient the water heater, and the less energy it consumes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a water heater is an essential appliance that provides hot water for various household activities. We have covered the major aspects of water heaters, including types, maintenance, replacement/upgrades, and energy efficiency. With this knowledge, you can now make informed decisions regarding your water heater, and ensure that it works efficiently, lasts longer, and saves you money on energy bills.
