When choosing a propane water heater, there are several factors to consider. Read on to learn more about these important considerations!
Propane water heaters are an excellent choice for homes that need hot water quickly. They’re safe and use less energy than electric models.
Size Matters.
There are several sizes of propane water heaters. Typically, water heaters are sized by the number of people in the home along with the number of bathrooms. Any additional considerations (ie. Large amounts of laundry) for hot water should also be taken into consideration.
As a general rule of thumb, 1 – 2 people: 30 -40 gallons; 2-3 people: 40-50 gallons; 3-4 people: 50-60 gallons; and 5+ people: 60-80 gallons. At times it might be more practical to install an on-demand or tankless water heater in a location that has special hot water needs such as near a whirlpool tub or upstairs laundry room.
Energy Efficiency is key.
A propane water heater uses energy efficiently by heating water quickly and then maintaining a constant temperature. This means less energy consumption and lower utility bills. In addition, propane water heaters are easy to install and maintain. They also last longer than electric models.
Choose a Model That Fits Your Budget.
There are two main types of propane water heaters: tankless and storage tank. Tankless units use only as much gas as is needed at any given moment, while tank storage units cycle on periodically to maintain tank temperature.
Storage tank units also by nature have standby heat loss, where on-demand units do not. Tank units typically cost less but don’t last quite as long. The biggest deciding factor might come down to how much hot water you need at any given time. Tankless heaters may not be able to keep up with your family’s hot water demand.
Look For Features You Need.
A good propane water heater should meet certain requirements. First, it must be able to maintain a constant temperature throughout the house. Second, it should be easy to install and operate. Third, it should be safe and reliable. Finally, it should be energy efficient.
Check Out Warranties.
If you’re looking for a new propane water heater, make sure to check out warranties. This will help ensure that you’ll receive quality service when needed. Typical a water heater comes with a five or six year warranty. Higher end units often come with warranties up to ten years. Warranties usually don’t cover routine maintenance such as internal unit cleaning. This task is left up to the unit owner.
If you are considering replacing your water heater, please give us a call at 800-874-1975 to discuss your options.