Recently I was asked to write a review on gas water heaters. With over 40 years in the plumbing and Radiant Heating profession, I have removed and replaced hundreds of tank type gas water heaters. Most storage-tank water heaters look alike on the outside. But a cross-section of gas and electric storage-tank models confirmed that paying a little more typically buys a better water heater. Those with longer warranties tend to have larger heating elements, thicker insulation, and thicker or longer corrosion-fighting metal anodes.
Experts at ConsumerReports.org say gas models cost about half as much to run compared to electric, although they do cost a bit more upfront. If you can install a gas line at a decent cost or already have gas service in your home, gas water heaters are easy to install and provide significant savings over time. Gas units also heat water faster than electric models; you’ll have more hot water available during peak usage. This also means users can get by with a smaller (storage) tank. Add a gas water heater timer and your savings will increase even further.
Gas hot water heaters come in a few styles; hybrids, tank-less, and solar supplemental. Some of the criteria used for grading them include their Energy Star rating; the length of their warranty; their insulating and noise factors; and mostly their energy efficiency. Most all of the manufacturers have all of these features and more to offer.
Most water heaters are sold on the basis of how many gallons they hold. For example, two to four people might use 80 to 85 gallons per day–enough for about three showers, one laundry load, running the dishwasher once, and turning on the faucet nine times. But the first-hour rating (FHR) for storage-tank water is most important, because it tells you how much hot water the heater can deliver during a set period. A pro can calculate how much you’ll need.
Bottom line, you can drown in literature filled with claims about this water heater and that water heater. Certain brands of water heaters are sold in certain geographic areas. Here is a list of things to consider when purchasing your gas water heater:
1) Which water heater is most commonly sold in my area?
2) What water heater does my plumber recommend?
3) What size water heater do I need?
4) How much do I have to spend?