Top 5 Things to Consider when Purchasing an on-Demand Water Heater

If you're a property owner in Cedar Park, Texas, considering upgrading to an on-demand water heater, there is much to consider. Not only are there many different types of on-demand water heaters – electric, gas-powered, and tankless – but research must be done to ensure that you're selecting the model that best fits your needs. To get the most out of your purchase, we'll go through the five most important things to think about before making the commitment.

1. System Size

Before you can purchase an on-demand water heater, you'll need to figure out what size unit your property needs and what type of fuel it should run off of. While bigger isn't always better when it comes to on-demand water heaters, you'll want to know the flow rate (which is measured in gallons per minute) so you buy the unit with the right capacity for your home. In addition to capacity, you'll need to decide whether a gas-powered or electric unit would better suit your property, as the fuel sources will affect the cost of installation and energy efficiency.

2. Energy Source

When it comes to blissful hot showers, energy efficiency is key. Tankless water heaters tend to be more energy efficient than traditional water heaters as they heat water on demand and don't require pre-heating the water in a tank. As such, many tankless water heater models come with an Energy Star rating; those with an Energy Star rating are up to 15% more efficient than their non-Energy Star counterparts. On the other hand, gas-powered water heaters are generally more affordable. Make sure to weigh up these factors when deciding on your energy source.

3. Location and Ventilation

If you're planning on getting a gas-powered unit, you should be aware of where it's going to be installed and the ventilation requirements that'll be needed to safely evacuate the combustion gases it's going to produce while in use. Electric units are much easier to install as they don't require a vent, so installation is even quicker. In either case, you will want to ensure the unit is installed by a professional as installing a water heater of any kind is outside the scope of a handyman and may require specialized knowledge.

4. Cost and Budget

As mentioned before, gas-powered units are generally more affordable. However, annual fuel cost, cost of installation, and replacement costs should all be taken into account when budgeting for an on-demand water heater, regardless of the type you're considering. Most on-demand water heaters come with a manufacturer's warranty but you should know that the warranty might not cover all the necessary parts and labor.

5. Maintenance

As with any appliance, on-demand water heaters require upkeep and regular maintenance to ensure they're running at peak effectiveness and efficiency. Regular checkups are especially important for units with gas components, as they emit gaseous combustion byproducts and require a longer, more intensive maintenance process. So be sure that you factor in costs for periodic maintenance and inspections of all parts of the system when budgeting for an on-demand unit.

It's important to remember that the wrong water heater can cause more than just disappointment; an improper installation could lead to unsafe water temperatures, short cycling or damage to other parts of the system. So when considering the installation of a new water heater, it's always best to call a professional. Abacus Plumbing is a local business in Cedar Park, Texas with certified, experienced plumbers who are able to install and repair on-demand water heaters, as well as take care of all other plumbing needs.

Whether you need help deciding which system is right for you or you need your current water heater serviced or replaced, Abacus Plumbing is here to help.

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