5 Factors to Consider When Buying a Water Heater in Austin, TX

Whether you own a business or a home in Austin, TX, you'll need a reliable water heater to ensure your family or employees have hot water for showers, washing dishes, and laundry. Choosing the right water heater is essential for ensuring not just reliability but also safety and cost savings.

The team of experienced plumbers at Abacus Residential and Commercial Plumbers have put together this top 5 list to help you when shopping for a water heater in Austin, TX.

1. Choose Wisely - Different Types of Water Heaters

The type of water heater chosen will depend on the size of your home, your water usage needs, and your budget. In general, smaller homes will require smaller water heaters and larger homes will require larger ones.

The two main types of water heaters are conventional storage-tank and tankless. Storage-tank water heaters are available in electric or gas models, while tankless water heaters usually require only a gas connection.

Conventional storage-tank water heaters preheat and store water in a reservoir until it is needed. They're relatively simple, inexpensive to operate, and last an average 8-12 years.

Tankless water heaters provide virtually endless hot water and are up to 24 percent more energy efficient than traditional storage-tank models. However, they generally cost more upfront and require more space.

2. Estimate Size - Water Heater Capacity

The size of the water heater you choose is based on the number and type of fixtures in the space, the flow rate, and the estimated peak usage. Knowing this information in advance can help avoid having to replace a water heater prematurely due to an inadequate size.

You'll need to measure your water heater's first hour rating (FHR) and energy factor (EF). FHR is the amount of hot water the heater can deliver in the first hour of use, and EF is a measure of how efficient it is.

Generally, larger households will require a higher FHR and EF. It's important to choose the right-sized water heater based on your household's needs to avoid running out of hot water and incurring additional costs.

3. Set Your Budget - Cost of Installing a New Water Heater

The cost of a water heater in Austin, TX will depend on the type, size, and features you choose. However, installation costs are usually a set fee, depending on the plumber you use, the complexity of the installation, and the type of unit.

In general, electric water heaters are cheaper to install and much more energy efficient than their gas counterparts. If you opt for a tankless water heater, the cost of installation may be higher, but the water heater itself may be cheaper.

4. Learn the Lingo - Parts and Safety Features of Water Heaters

There are certain components, parts, safety features, and definitions you should understand before purchasing a water heater to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

One of the main components is the water heater's thermostat, which is used to control the temperature. Normally, storage-tank water heaters have two thermostats known as upper and lower, while the higher-end models have an adjustable thermostat.

The safety features help reduce the risk of scalding and fires. All electric storage-tank water heaters come with two dedicated circuits, as well as an overheat cutoff switch. Most gas storage-tank water heaters come with a thermocouple, while many higher-end models offer additional features such as flue-damper and electronics.

Finally, when researching water heater models, you'll see EnergyGuide labels. This label includes energy-efficiency information like estimated annual energy consumption, estimated yearly costs, and more.

5. Understand Warranties and Service Plans

Water heater warranties are there to protect you in the event of a failure. The standard water heater warranty lasts up to six years, depending on the manufacturer. Be sure to understand the details of the warranty, such as what is covered, any labor costs, and if the coverage is transferable to a new homeowner.

In addition to a warranty, many manufacturers offer service plans to keep the water heater running smoothly and efficiently. These plans can help you save money in the long run by covering repairs, maintenance, and other costs associated with running a water heater.

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