Choosing a new water heater is a big decision. The right system helps keep your showers hot, your dishes clean, and your energy bills under control. But with so many types and features to consider, it’s no surprise that many homeowners find themselves asking, “What water heater should I buy?”
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of water heaters, their pros and cons, and how to pick the right size. Whether you're replacing an old unit or installing one in a new home, this guide will help you make a confident choice.
Types of Water Heaters
There are several types of water heaters. From traditional tanks to newer energy-saving models, each type operates differently and comes with its own pros and cons.
Below, we’ll explain the most common options and what makes each one a good (or poor) fit for your home.
- Traditional Storage Tank
- How it works: These systems heat water and store it in a large tank, keeping it ready for use throughout the day.
- Pros: They have a lower upfront cost and always provide a steady supply of hot water.
- Cons: They use more energy since they constantly keep water hot, even when not in use.
- Best for: Ideal for larger families or homes with high daily hot water use.
- Tankless Water Heaters
- How it works: These heaters warm water on demand without using a storage tank.
- Pros: They are energy-efficient, take up less space, and deliver endless hot water.
- Cons: They have a higher installation cost and may have trouble keeping up when several hot water fixtures are used simultaneously.
- Best for: A great fit for smaller households or anyone looking to reduce energy use.
- Hybrid (Heat Pump) Water Heaters
- How it works: These units pull heat from the surrounding air to warm the water.
- Pros: They help lower utility bills, are environmentally friendly, and offer strong long-term savings.
- Cons: They require more space and are less effective in cold climates.
- Best for: Best suited for homes with electric appliances and good airflow around the unit.
- Solar Water Heaters
- How it works: These systems use rooftop solar panels to collect energy from the sun and heat your water.
- Pros: They are extremely energy-efficient and can lead to major savings over time.
- Cons: They have a higher upfront cost and depend on consistent sunlight to work effectively.
- Best for: Perfect for eco-conscious homeowners in sunny areas.
- Condensing Water Heaters
- How it works: These heaters recycle heat from exhaust gases to warm water more efficiently.
- Pros: They offer excellent energy efficiency and are great for homes with high hot water demand.
- Cons: They are more expensive to install and need special venting.
- Best for: A good choice for homes that use natural gas and need a high-efficiency system.
How to Determine the Right Size Water Heater
Picking the right size water heater is just as important as choosing the type. If it’s too small, you might run out of hot water. If it’s too big, you could waste energy and money.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right size based on your household:
For Tank Water Heaters
These water heaters are measured by how many gallons they hold.
- 1–2 people: 30–40 gallon tank
- 3–4 people 40–75 gallon tank
- 5 or more people 75–100 gallon tank
For Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless units are measured by how many gallons of hot water they can produce each minute, also called gallons per minute (GPM).
For example, if you want to run a shower and the dishwasher at the same time, your system needs to handle that flow. A shower uses about 2 GPM, and a dishwasher around 1.5 GPM, so you'd want a unit that can handle at least 3.5 GPM.
The experts at WyattWorks can help determine your household’s hot water needs and recommend the perfect system.
Other Factors to Consider
Besides type and size, here are a few more things to think about:
- Installation Space: Think about how much room you have for your water heater. Traditional tank-style units are larger and work best in homes with extra room to spare. If you're working with limited square footage, a tankless model might be a better choice because it's compact and can be mounted to save floor space.
- Maintenance: Some water heaters need more upkeep than others. Traditional tank models should be flushed once a year to remove sediment. Tankless models also need cleaning, but less often than tank models.
- Lifespan: Water heaters don’t last forever. Tank water heaters usually last about 8 to 12 years, while tankless units can last over 20 years if well cared for.
- Energy Costs: The cost to run your water heater depends on where you live and whether it uses gas or electricity. In some areas, gas costs less than electricity, while electricity is the more affordable option in others. Checking your local energy rates can help you choose the most cost-effective option for your home.
Get Expert Help Choosing Your Water Heater
Choosing the right water heater depends on your home’s size, your budget, and how energy-efficient you want to be. With so many options, it can be hard to know which is best.
Instead of guessing, let the team at WyattWorks help you find the perfect fit. We take the time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and recommend a system that makes sense for your home and budget. Once you’re ready, we’ll handle the installation with care and precision.
If you're replacing an outdated water heater or choosing one for a new home, our team is here to guide you. Call, text, or book online to get started today.
