After a long day on the ski slopes or a day of hiking, you probably look forward to stepping into a warm, steamy shower or bathtub to heat up and decompress from the busy day. While you may not necessarily think of it in your reprieve, have you ever thought about your specific residential water heater and how it provides hot water? Water heaters are the most common plumbing fixture in Calgary homes, but not just because it gets freezing cold. Having access to a reliable supply of hot water year-round is essential for comfort, tasks, and peace of mind.
There are several water heater options available, and if yours is nearing its lifespan, you're probably wondering which hot water heater to purchase. Our Calgary plumbers have years of experience working with all different types of water heaters, so who better to inform you on the various types of water heaters available?
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary, we pride ourselves on providing expert advice tailored to the specific needs of Calgarians. Whether you prefer a traditional storage tank model or modern tankless systems, we can help guide you to the perfect choice for your home.
What to Consider When Choosing Among the Types of Water Heaters
Before we get into the specifics of different types of water heaters, it's important to learn what to consider before selecting a new water heater. Unlike other places in North America, Calgary experiences extremely cold temperatures, so homeowners must be selective about their choices. Not only does your model have to fulfill your hot water needs, but you also need to consider energy efficiency and the cost of its operation.
Every household is different. Some households are large with high hot water demands, and some households are for a single person, each requiring tailored solutions for their water heating needs. Our goal in this article is to provide valuable insights into the various types of water heaters, ensuring that every home can find the best option to fit their lifestyle and usage patterns.
So, whether your storage tank water heater is ready for replacement or you're considering installing a tankless water heater, here's what you need to evaluate before having one installed:
- Cold weather: As an Albertan, you know that not having access to hot water on demand is not sustainable. During extreme temperatures, you need a reliable hot water supply no matter what. Choose an option that is known for long-lasting durability and efficient performance when the temperatures begin to drop.
- Household size: The size of your household plays a major factor in determining the best option for your needs. On average, most homes use 40- to 50-gallon tanks, but a larger household will benefit from 60-gallon tanks.
- Energy source: Natural gas is king in our neck of the woods, so most homes in Calgary use natural gas water heaters because it is cost-effective and offers efficient water heating. However, electric water heaters are still found in homes for those who prefer electric solutions for their heating needs.
- Durability: We have hard water in Calgary, which unfortunately causes scale buildup. Buildup can affect all functions of the water heater, from the heating elements to the overall efficiency of the unit. Many water heater repairs performed by our team are a result of this scale accumulation, which can lead to premature replacement. It's important to flush out the tank regularly to avoid this problem.
- Size of your space: Different types of water heaters have different sizes, so you will want to evaluate the size of your space and determine how much room you can allocate for the installation.
Now that you have learned about what you need to consider before choosing a new water heater, we can explore the different types of water heaters available.
Conventional Tank Water Heaters
Conventional storage tank water heaters are the most common type of water heaters found in Calgary homes. Traditional water heaters are available as both gas and electric models, so you will want to evaluate your specific energy source before purchasing one. Tank models are large, and the water storage tank is insulated, storing water to have it ready for use whenever it is needed. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by a gas burner or an electric element. When water is drawn, cold water refills the heating process will continue.
Tank water heaters are designed to provide an endless supply of hot water, making them suitable for households that have high water heating needs. Tank water heating systems are common because they are reliable and generally less expensive than other types of water heaters; however, they take up a lot of space and experience standby heat loss.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, but only when you need it. When you turn your hot water tap on, cold water flows through the unit and gets heated instantly by a gas burner or heating element. This process completely eliminates the need for a storage tank, so if you're short on space, this type of water heater may be your best bet. Tankless water heaters don't leak as often as their tank counterparts because they don't have a high volume of stored water that can spill in case of an issue.
Tankless water heaters provide exceptional energy efficiency, using 30% less energy than conventional tanks. They can last up to 20 years or more with proper care, saving you time and money in the long run. However, they are more costly than other options and may require upgrading your electrical system or gas lines to accommodate their power needs.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters collect energy from the sun to heat water for your home. The solar collector is installed on top of your roof and absorbs sunlight, converting it into heat. The circulation system transfers the heat from the collector into an insulated storage tank. Solar water heaters are generally more cost-effective for your water bills, reducing them by 50 to 80%, depending on the size of the system and sunlight exposure. Calgary is considered the sunniest city in Canada, making it an ideal place for solar water heating systems. One thing to note, however, is that while solar water heating systems can greatly reduce energy costs, their efficiency can vary based on seasonal changes and weather fluctuations.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Our last unit regarding different types of water heaters is the heat pump or hybrid water heater. These systems use air to heat the water rather than generating heat directly. Compared to conventional electric or gas heaters, these systems are exceptionally more energy-efficient. Calgary homeowners who have purchased these systems have noted a significant drop in their gas usage, especially in the summer when furnaces aren't in use. Heat pump water heaters are more expensive than other options, but their long-term savings and environmental benefits make them a worthwhile investment.
Let Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary Handle Your Water Heating Needs
Now that you know the basics of the different types of water heaters, you should be able to choose the best one for your home. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Calgary is your one-stop solution for exceptional water heater services, so whether you need repair, replacement, or installation, our licensed professionals are one phone call away.
Contact our exceptional customer service team today if you want to learn more or schedule a water heater appointment.
