Understanding Hot Water Heater Systems

Water heaters come in three different ways, that is either electric, gas or solar powered water heaters. However, gas-powered water heaters are slower than electric ones. Electric water heaters are much common in many homes. Before calling for water heater repair, you'll need to know what kind you have.

Following are the main types of water heaters available in the market today.

1. Tankless Water Heater

This kind of water heater does not hold water but provides it on demand. Since it heats the water on demand, you will never lack hot water, and since there is no storage tank, these tankless units take up little space. Further, simply because they are not heating up water to sit in a big tank, they are more energy efficient.

2. Solar water heater

A solar heater works in the same way as a tank-style water heater. Both have tanks and have gallons of water readily available. The only difference between the two is the energy source. As the name suggests, solar-type uses solar energy to heat the water. It may be very efficient in the long run as it uses a renewable energy source. However, installation is costly.

3. Electric water heater

These are water heaters that heat water instantly so that there is no gap in-between hot and cold water. These heaters can be used for:

1. Washing dishes

2. Bathing/showering

3. Laundry (washer)

Signs that your water heater needs maintenance

If the water coming out of your hot water heater has a bad odor, strange color or sediments, it's a clear indication that cleaning is required.

A decrease in the efficiency of the heater is also a sign that it is time for the maintenance. Your water heater can cause your energy bills to soar, if not maintained properly.

Anode rod is one of the most important parts of a heater. The presence of orange-colored water beneath the rod is a clear signal that it needs to be replaced.

It is best not to wait for your water heater to give out rust colored water or fall to the floor because of rusting before you call the plumber. Similar to performing proper furnace maintenance, proper water heater maintenance will help to you save money in the long run.

Signs that your water heater needs to be replaced

If the heater is so rusted that it is giving out rusty water, it may be time to replace it. In spite of proper maintenance, if your heater is unable to provide the same amount of hot water as before, it may need to be replaced.

You may wait for the heater to stop working completely before buying a new one, only if you don't mind taking cold showers. A decrease in efficiency is the best indicator that a water heater needs to be replaced.

Once you have made the decision, the next step is to choose a new one, which is most suitable for your needs.

Today so many types of water heater systems are available in the market that selecting the best among them can be confusing. Your choice should be based on the amount of hot water your family needs and your power source.

Solar, electric and gas are the main options for power. Using what is already there will help you save time and money.

Photo by Kirsten Marie Ebbesen on Unsplash