Choosing a gas water heater is perhaps the best choice when installing or replacing a hot water heater in your home because they are much more economical than electric water heaters. In fact, most gas water heaters operate more efficiently than electric water heaters. Considering that hot water heaters are the second largest user of energy in the home, finding a more economical solution is very wise decision.
Natural gas hot water heaters are also very popular among homeowners because they reheat water more than twice as fast as an electric water heater does. That means that you could probably run the dishwasher after your morning shower and still have hot water, not lukewarm water.
While gas water heaters heat water faster than electric heaters, it is still very important to purchase the right size tank for your household needs. A gas water heater that is too small can still leave you showering in lukewarm water. Most homes will require a 50 gallon gas hot water heater. This heater will take care of a moderate sized home with 3 to 4 occupants, two bathrooms, and a washing machine. Of course, if you live alone and only have one bathroom, you can get by with a 40 gallon water heater. On the other hand, you may need a larger heater if there are more family members, especially teenagers, in the home and whirlpool baths.
Even once you have figured out which gas water heater is the right size for your home, you may want to purchase a size larger for a few reasons. Most of these reasons will center on your family’s lifestyle. For example: If you have a family member who is notorious for taking long, extremely hot showers, or if you have to run the dishwasher, washing machine and take a shower at the same time, you may want to purchase a larger gas water heater than is recommended for your family size. No matter what size gas water heater you choose, you can rest assured that you are heating water more efficiently with gas water heaters rather than electric water heaters.
If you need help choosing or installing a gas water heater, Absolute Plumbing and Boiler is here to help.