While you might want to have a nice, warm shower at the end of a long day, it can be frustrating if other people in the household want to use hot water too. We have all had that moment of a sudden cold-water surprise when we just want to relax. Are there ways to solve this without breaking the bank?
Below, we elaborate on some of the benefits and drawbacks of different electric water heaters on the market.
Storage Tank Water Heating
Of all the types of water heaters that exist on the market, this hot water tank system might be one you are more acquainted with. This system stores water in a tank and heats it until needed by the household.
Pros
Having a large storage tank means you can have the assurance of hot water whenever you need it, even at peak times or colder Canadian months. A storage tank also comes with very low up-front costs.
Cons
While they keep a lot of hot water on tap, these heaters need energy all the time to maintain the heat. This can be much less efficient and cost more in the long term.
Tankless Hot Water
Tankless systems provide on-demand water when you need it. They heat up the water as it comes through the system, offering piping-hot faucets at any time of the day.
Pros
As these systems only heat up water when needed, they are much more efficient and can provide an unlimited supply of hot water. Compared to storage tanks, they are also much smaller, allowing more options for installation.
Compared to other options, tankless water heaters often have a much longer lifespan. Over time, this will pay out in larger savings for you and the rest of your home. Should you ever wish to sell your property, a tankless water heater can improve your return on investment and increase your home’s resale value.
Cons
As the system needs to heat up the hot water in a pipe, it may reduce the flow of water. However, you can mitigate this by selecting a system with a higher capacity.
Solar-Electric Hybrid Systems
These use both solar panels and electricity to heat your water. This is a sustainable solution compared to many other options.
Pros
These use renewable energy, reducing your carbon footprint. Depending on where you live, you may even get tax credits or other incentives for this.
Solar power can also reduce your energy bill, as your heater is running off heat stored from the sun's energy.
Cons
While you will pay much less over time, installing solar panels tends to have a very high up-front cost. You can also expect it not to gather as much energy when the weather is overcast. They are also much more complex, making repairs more difficult to source.
Experts in Installing Electric Water Heaters in Calgary
Your choice between different electric water heaters can make or break your relationship with hot water in your house. While the choice might seem overwhelming, you do not need to go it alone.
We can guide you through the water heater installation process. When you hire us to update your system to modern standards, you can relax with the assurance of hot water from that day forward.
Speak to an expert from Harmony Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. today for a personal consultation, and you will never need to worry about cold showers again.