Top 5 Things to Consider Before Installing a Water Heater in Austin, TX

If you're new to Austin, TX and need to install a water heater at your residential property, you have some important decisions to make. Choosing the right water heater can be daunting — there are a lot of lifestyle-, budget-, and safety-related factors to consider when selecting the system that best meets your needs.

At Abacus Plumbing, we're experienced at installing and repairing all types of water heaters, so we understand how to help property owners like you pick the right system for their applications. Here are the top 5 things you should consider before choosing and installing a water heater in Austin, TX.

1. Type of Water Heater

The two main types of water heaters are gas and electric water heaters. Both types have advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to measure the cost, efficiency, and other performance characteristics to make sure you get the most value.

Gas units tend to be more powerful, efficient, and cost-effective. They can also last for longer periods without needing repairs. However, they also require more maintenance and use natural gas, which has environmental implications that you should consider before selecting the type of system.

If you are concerned about energy efficiency, you may want to look into electric water heaters. Electric water heaters can cost more upfront but are usually more energy-efficient and have lower operating costs than gas systems. They may also be better for people who rent or who otherwise lack access to a natural gas line.

2. Capacity and Size

When selecting a water heater, it's important to consider the size and capacity of the system. Generally, the larger the tank, the more efficient the system will be. However, you don't want to spend money on additional capacity that you don't need or won't use.

To ensure you're selecting the right size water heater for your home, consider your family size. That includes pets that may require multiple or larger baths. You should also assess the size of your current household and consider any changes you may make in the future, such as adding more family members.

3. Efficiency Level

When selecting a water heater, you should consider the efficiency level. The higher the efficiency level, the less energy you need to use and the less money you'll have to spend on operating costs. Of course, higher-efficiency units are typically more expensive than their standard counterparts, so you'll need to weigh the cost vs. benefits when making your decision.

When researching water heaters, look for the Energy Star Single-Family label, which indicates that the system is more energy-efficient than typical models.

4. Installation Cost

Before selecting and installing a water heater, consider the total cost of the project. This includes not only the cost of the unit itself but also any installation or repair fees. Furthermore, most water heaters come with warranties that last from one to ten years, so you should factor this into the cost equation as well.

As a general rule, gas water heaters tend to be more expensive to install than electric water heaters, but the operating costs of electric water heaters are usually higher. To ensure you're choosing the most cost-effective option, consider the cost of both the unit and installation, as well as the estimated operation expenses.

5. Maintenance

Before you purchase and install a water heater, consider the potential maintenance costs and related procedures. All water heaters require some maintenance, such as periodic flushing and refilling, and some require more ongoing maintenance than others.

When researching specific water heaters, look into the manufacturer's website or contact customer service to learn about any maintenance requirements and costs. You should also consider the availability of local repair services and read online reviews to assess the costs and quality of their services.

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