Water Heater Cost: What to Consider Before Replacing Your Home’s System

If you live in Austin, Texas (zip code 78744) and you need to replace your water heater, there are a few factors to consider when selecting a new unit. Replacing a water heater can be expensive, so you should consider the installation costs, as well as the type of fuel used to heat the water. Additionally, since water heating is a major contributor to a household’s energy expenditure, you should be aware of all the different options available.

Before getting started, it is important to note that the US Department of Energy (DOE) recommends having a professional contractor inspect your current water heater at least once every two years. A professional contractor will know if your current water heater is efficiently heating water and if there are any other safety concerns that need to be addressed.

Types of Water Heaters

There are generally three types of water heaters you can choose from: fuel-fired, electric resistance, and heat pump. While each type has its advantages and limitations, it is important to select the one that best meets your family’s hot water needs.

Fuel Fired: Fuel-fired water heaters are the most common type and they are usually more cost-effective to operate than electric-resistance heaters. They run on either natural gas or propane and provide water at a higher temperature.

Electric Resistance: Electric resistance water heaters use electric heating elements to heat the water. This type of water heater is cheaper to install, but more expensive to operate than a fuel-fired unit.

Heat Pump: Heat pump water heaters use a system of coils, fans, and compressors to move heat from one place to another. They are the most energy efficient of all the water heater types, but they require more space than other units.

Size and Efficiency

Once you decide on the type of water heater, the next step is to determine the size of the unit. This depends on the size of your household and the amount of hot water required. The tank size should also be large enough to store the hot water for your family’s needs.

An important factor to consider when selecting a water heater is its energy efficiency. The US Department of Energy has established standards for energy efficiency, and certain water heater models must meet these standards. The more efficient models can typically save you money in the long run.

Costs

The cost of a water heater depends on the type and size of the unit you select, as well as the installation costs. Fuel-fired water heaters tend to be the most affordable, while electric-resistance and heat pump water heaters are more expensive. The installation costs can range from $500 to $800, depending on the complexity of the job.

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