Water heaters are appliances facilitating the process of heating water through a thermodynamic process wherein an energy source is used to heat the water. Its commonly used for domestic purpose, and its uses includes but not limited to bathing, cleaning, cooking etc.

Types Of Water Heaters

• Conventional Storage Water Heaters

Conventional storage water heater is one of the bestselling water heating systems for home. This type of heaters possesses a ready reservoir with the capacity to hold 20-80 gallons of water.

It functions by expelling warm water from the top of tank as you turn on the tap. Cold water enters the tank’s bottom to replace the hot water, thus assuring that the tank is always full.

A conventional storage water heater usually uses natural gas, electricity or propane as fuel sources.

• On Demand (Tank-less or Instantaneous) Water Heaters

Also known as tank-less or instantaneous water heater, an on demand water heater provides you with hot water as and when necessary. Unlike tank-type water heater, this water heater does not store water.

Appropriate installation and maintenance of on demand water heater will optimize the energy efficiency of the device. Thus, it is always advisable to contact a certified technician or plumber to ensure the proper installation and maintenance of the appliance.

• Heat Pump Water Heaters

In the initial years of its introduction, a heat pump water heater was used for space conditioning purpose. But in recent times, the appliance is being used for the purpose of electric water heating. Heat pumps are considered to be more efficient than what is referred to as electric resistance heaters.

• Solar water heating Systems

A solar water heater utilizes sunlight for warming up water. It is used for both commercial and domestic purposes. Solar water heating systems are classified as active and passive type heaters.

The active systems possess controls and pumps while their passive counterparts do not. Passive solar water heating systems are cheaper than their active versions.

• Tankless Coil And Indirect Water Heating Systems

This type of heaters is part of what is referred to as integrated and space heaters.

Things To Consider Before Buying Water Heaters For Your Home

You need to consider specific factors before buying water heaters for your home. Some of these factors are discussed below:

1. Fuel Type And Cost

Check the energy source and fuel type you use for heating water. Choosing a pricey fuel or energy source will affect both the efficiency and annual cost incurred by the heater.

2. Size

First decide your requirement of hot water. Your choice of water heater should be based on the amount of hot water you need everyday. Choose the heater that you think will be able to satisfy your hot water requirements.

3. Energy Efficiency

To optimize your cost saving and energy efficiency, you should have a proper knowledge of how efficient the heater is before you buy that appliance.