A water heater is a device that is installed in your home to store and heat water. These generally run on either electricity or gas, depending on what type of fuel source is prevalent in your area. Both versions run similarly and come in sizes from twenty to over one hundred gallons. Before purchasing a new water heater, there are a few things that should be considered.

The type of fuel to be used is a determining factor in which unit to choose. If you already have gas hook ups, a gas generated water heater will be your best bet. These generally save on energy costs. However, electric units can be run anywhere and if this is your primary fuel source, an electric water heater should be purchased. Costs to convert the fuel source from electric to gas may be prohibitive so it is best to use whichever fuel source is already installed.

Before determining the capacity of the water heater, look at your family's needs. Also, think about the future and whether your family will increase. Purchasing a water heater is an investment and future growth should be looked at to get one that will suit you for many years. Determine how often hot water is used in your home to decide whether you have high or regular demand for hot water. For a family of two, choose a water heater that has at least a thirty gallon capacity or up to a fifty gallon capacity if hot water is used often. Families of up to four should consider a fifty to eighty gallon tank, and families with five or more should start at fifty gallons and may go to one hundred twenty if there is a high demand.

The number of gallons the water heater can heat per hour is called the recovery rate. This is also a consideration in buying a water heater. If you have several people in your home who use hot water at the same time, a higher recovery will be beneficial. However, if you have a more typical hot water use pattern, a lower recover rate can be chosen. Water heaters with lower capacities and lower recovery rates will be less expensive.

Water heaters come in a variety of dimensions. Ensure you have the proper space available to physically install it in the designated area. You will not usually have to sacrifice capacity to get a water heater with smaller dimensions. Every water heater is tagged with an energy efficiency rating. Choose the most efficient rating you can afford as this will help save on energy costs.

Water heaters are not difficult to purchase but there are a few things that need to be considered. Determine the capacity, size, fuel source, and energy efficiency needed for your home. Compare prices to determine the model that will best suit you and your family for years to come.