Hot Water Heater Replacement Considerations

If your home's hot water heater isn't performing the way that it should, you might be thinking about replacing it. When you start thinking about a new water heater installation, there are a couple of things that you should think about before making a final decision. 

1. Should You Get The Same Type of Water Heater Again?

One of the first things that you need to think about is whether or not you want to get the same kind of water heater that you already have. If your existing water heater has worked out fine for your family up to now, you may decide that a similar model is sufficient for your new water heater installation.

However, if you were struggling with issues such as not having enough hot water, you might be thinking about investing in a different water heater. Before you choose a different hot water heater for your home, you need to be sure that it can be successfully installed. Think about the size of the tank and the amount of room your installation contractor will need for the new unit. Ensure that there's sufficient clearance before you choose a larger tank.

2. Is Your Hot Water Demand Different?

When it's time to buy a new water heater, this is the perfect time to evaluate your household hot water needs. Chances are that your existing water heater was installed a long time ago, and your family dynamics and needs have probably changed quite a bit since then.

If there are more people in your household, you've likely got a higher demand for hot water. Not only will more people in your house mean more showers, but it also means more dishes, more laundry, and other increased hot water demands. As a result, you may find that you need a larger hot water tank than you currently have.

Alternatively, if you've had children move out since your last hot water heater investment, you may be able to choose a smaller tank this time. With fewer people in your household now, a smaller tank should prove more than sufficient.

The other thing you should think about in terms of changing hot water demand is whether a tankless water heater would be a better option. It saves energy costs because you won't have a tank maintaining water temperature even when the water isn't being used. Instead, you can be confident that there's always hot water when you need it without the excess energy demand placed by a storage tank.

3. How Will the System Be Installed?

Another important thing to consider is how you plan to have the new hot water system installed. Many homeowners figure that since it's a seemingly simple process, they can handle the installation on their own. The truth is that installing a hot water tank requires some expertise and experience that many homeowners don't have.

If you want to be sure that your hot water tank is level, properly connected to prevent leaks, assembled correctly to manage mineral buildups, and otherwise functioning as it should, you should reach out to a plumbing contractor near you for professional installation. This ensures that your water lines are properly hooked up, secure to prevent leaks, and the system is stable. Professional installation is particularly important when switching from a standard water tank to a tankless system.

These are some of the most important things to consider when you're thinking about investing in a new water heater. Work with a plumber to make sure that you get the unit that you need and the system functions as it should.