When choosing a new unit for water heater installation, Kamloops homeowners have two main options: gas or electric. But you also have to decide whether to choose a traditional tank water heater or a tankless water heater. Here are the commercially available options.
Gas Water Heater
When it comes to a hot water tank, you probably picture a traditional gas-powered water heater that's equipped with a large tank and a gas pilot that ignites the burner. Although gas-powered water heaters aren't as energy-efficient as modern electric models, they offer benefits that make them a popular choice for installations.
Kamloops residents should be aware that propane or gas-powered units are less expensive to install and can last up to 15 years. You typically find a gas-powered unit in many homes. What a gas-powered unit lacks in being energy efficient, it makes up for in its affordable upfront cost, and comes with the bonus of still having hot water if the power goes out. It's a great option when you're looking at a Kamloops water heater replacement or installation.
Electric Hot Water Heater
Electric-powered water heaters work like gas ones, but without the flame or need for gas. You can use them whenever you need hot water—unless the power is out.
Given that electricity tends to be more expensive than gas, electric-powered water heaters tend to be more expensive to operate. However, they're relatively inexpensive and can be easily installed by a professional plumber. You do have to keep a careful eye on your utility bills, however, given the costs associated with them in the long run. They're more energy-efficient but cost more to operate over the long term.
Although an electric-powered unit is more energy efficient than its gas-powered alternative, it's also important to note that a gas-powered unit is likely to be less expensive in the long run simply due to the price of gas. However, if you opt for solar power for your home, then it also makes a lot of sense for your next water heater installation. Kamloops residents: the solar PV system generates enough power to offset your usage after your water heater installation or replacement.
High-Efficiency Hot Water Tank Heaters
When it comes to advancements in technology, the humble water heater has come a long way. Newer, high-efficiency models demonstrate that you can save if you upgrade to a more energy-efficient water heater. If you're upgrading your unit during a water heater replacement in Kamloops, an energy-efficient model may be the right choice.
Most energy-efficient models are gas-powered, but more efficient electric-powered options are available. Upfront, you'll pay a higher price for a traditional water tank installation or a hot water tank replacement, but the long-term savings with these models come after your water heater replacement or installation.
Tankless Water Heater Units
There are a couple of different names for tankless water heaters. You might also hear them referred to as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters. They're a great option because they conserve energy by heating only the water needed at a given time, rather than maintaining a heated tank that must be kept at a set temperature throughout the day. This helps to reduce energy consumption and makes them popular choices for water heater installation or water heater replacement.
Kamloops locals will find that tankless models are available in both gas- and electric-powered options. Tankless heaters work by heating the water as it passes through either a gas burner or an electric coil element on its way to your faucet.
However, it's important to note that there's a major downside to tankless water heaters. If your household is large and you're running a shower and the dishwasher at the same time, your tankless unit simply won't keep up. They work best for small households with limited hot water demands. That said, you can install them at the point of demand, so for larger households, you may want to install at least one on every floor. However, this will be pricier, and you will need to take care of maintaining each unit regardless of its location.
Additionally, tankless units typically require a more expensive upfront investment and higher costs for the associated Kamloops water heater installation services compared to traditional tanks. However, tankless units also have a longer lifespan; they can last twice as long as a traditional water heater and are relatively easy to repair, making them a great option for water heater repair.
No matter your decision, our professionals are here to help with replacement, installation, and water heater repair. Kamloops locals can count on us to provide them with plumbing and heating services they need to make their home safe and comfortable.
