5 Things to Consider when Shopping for a Water Heater in Austin, TX

As the hot summer weather continues to ravage Austin, TX and its surrounding areas, keeping a dependable source of hot water is a necessity for any Texas home or business. But, not all water heaters are created equal, and a poorly selected system can cost you plenty in the long run. To help you avoid these mistakes, we've put together a list of the top five things you should consider before investing in a water heater.

1. Fuel Source

The most important factor to consider when shopping for a new water heater is the fuel source. Electric, natural gas, and propane are the three main types of fuel sources, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. Electric water heaters are typically the most cost-effective option, but may not be as efficient as some of the other fuel sources. Natural gas and propane water heaters are going to produce the most heat with the least energy input, but gas models typically cost a bit more upfront. In Austin, natural gas is the most common fuel source for water heaters.

2. Efficiency Rating

Once you've settled on a fuel source, you should look at the efficiency rating of the water heater. This rating gives you a good idea of how much energy the appliance will use compared to its competitors. The higher the rating, the less energy the appliance will use, so look for a water heater with a high efficiency rating to keep your utility bills low.

3. Size

The size of the water heater you need is just as important as selecting the right fuel source. Oversized heaters can waste energy as it costs more to continuously heat a large tank of water than it does to simply heat a smaller one. On the other hand, undersized heaters may not even be able to produce enough hot water for your needs. Many homes with multiple bathrooms will require larger water heaters than homes with fewer bathrooms. It's important to do your research and select the correct size for your home.

4. Warranty

Water heaters don't have a very long lifespan, especially if they're not maintained properly. Because of this, it's important to ensure that the water heater you purchase comes with a strong warranty. A good warranty will cover the cost of repairs or replacements if something goes wrong with the water heater. Be sure to check what types of coverage the warranty offers and for how long.

5. Price

Finally, price is always a factor when buying a water heater. As mentioned, electric models are usually the most affordable option, but some high-end natural gas water heaters can also be quite pricy. Decide on a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.

By following these five tips when shopping for a water heater in Austin, TX, you can ensure that you're able to find the perfect unit for your home or business. Remember to keep fuel source, efficiency rating, size, warranty, and cost in mind before making your purchase.

Water Heater

Austin

TX