The type of fuel or energy source you use to heat the water will not only affect the annual operating costs of the water heater, but also its size and energy efficiency. Thank you for all this fantastic information on choosing a hot water system. We will definitely analyze the efficiency of the recovery. Since we have a big house, this would be important to us.
For volume, a good rule of thumb is 50 to 60 gallons capacity for two people, and then increase to 80 gallons for three or four people. To be sure of your needs, it is best to consult with an experienced solar contractor. They have the tools and local expertise to know what works best for you. The typical tank is made of glass-lined steel (actually porcelain enamel).
Contains magnesium or aluminum rods suspended in the tank to combat internal corrosion, which is the number one reason water heaters fail prematurely. Stainless steel tanks do not rust (and therefore do not need anodes), but are more expensive than glass-lined tanks. Its higher cost may pay off in areas where water is highly corrosive (acidic) or reactive (filled with minerals that encrust the walls of the tank, slowing heat transfer). Whether foam or fiberglass, the insulation surrounding a gas or oil-fueled tank must be R-16 or higher and R-22 or more for electric.
Insulation reduces heat losses in standby that escapes while the unit is idle. Wrapping the tank in a fiberglass blanket will not compensate for the insufficient insulation built into the tank. Gas tankless water heaters are available with an output capacity large enough to handle the hot water needs of most households as well as smaller models. Reducing hot water consumption will help you save money, and you may be able to switch to a hot water system that is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Geothermal heat pump water heaters are a great option to consider if you already have or are installing a geothermal system for heating and cooling your home. Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another, so they are so efficient. There are more variables to consider when installing a solar water heater than for the other water heaters we have discussed so far. Match this number to the maximum expected demand for your home's hot water usage, and you'll always have enough hot water on hand.
You can always choose a water heater that runs on electricity during off-peak hours, but it will require you to invest in a larger tank. As a result of newly updated efficiency standards, water heaters below 55 gallons now have a 4 percent increase in efficiency and water heaters 55 gallons or more have efficiency gains of 25 to 50 percent, depending on the heat pump or condensation technology used. The most important number to consider when sizing water heaters with storage tank is the “First Hour Rating”. In either case, you will probably need a larger gas line to power a gas tankless water heater or a high amperage cable and a circuit breaker to handle the increased load of an electric model.
If your water heater does not have a built-in one, a heat trap can be added during installation (or it can be retrofitted to existing heaters). Consumer Reports recently tested several electric and gas whole house tankless water heaters from brands such as Bosch, Navien, Noritz, Rheem, Rinnai, Tempra and Trutankless. .
