Determining the Right Size for Your Water Heater

When your water heater breaks down, it can be stressful and scary. Even worse, when your water heater seems to be having problems, such as working too hard or running your utility bills through the roof, it can be an indicator of several issues, among them the possibility that your heater is simply the wrong size for your home. Read a guide for water heater sizing, how to install a water heater and information on how ServiceWhale can save you time and money by connecting you with a contractor in your area.

How to Install a Water Heater: Sizing

Many people make the mistake of thinking “bigger is better” in all things. Unfortunately, when it comes to utilities in your home, this is rarely the case. From air conditioning systems to furnaces to water heaters, having one that is too big will lead not only to high utility bills, but to a system that doesn’t last as long as it should. Likewise, a small one will overwork itself and break down early. When it comes to water heater sizing, you, like Goldilocks, want one that’s not too big and not too small, but just right.

Different Types of Home Water Heater

First, understand there are different kinds of water heating units for your home. If you’re looking for a demand-type or tankless water heater, you’ll need to determine the required temperature and flow rate. For solar heated systems, you’ll need to determine the collector area and the volume of storage needed for the entire season. For tank-based systems, you’ll need to know the first hour rating for your home.

Methods of Water Heater Efficiency Calculation

Each of these requires a different method. For tankless systems, know the gallons per minute of all devices you’ll use simultaneously, then subtract the incoming temperature (usually 50 degrees) from desired temperature.

For solar systems, complex worksheets and computer programs are usually used to determine the requirements of your system. Tank systems are, in many ways, the easiest to determine, but still require calculations regarding peak hour demand and burner efficiency.

Qualified Plumbing Service

In the end, it’s generally best to call on the services of a qualified plumbing contractor like those available through the resources provided by ServiceWhale. While you might balk at the expense of a professional water heater installation, the money it saves in the long run more than makes up the difference. You want a water heater that’s going to be ideally sized for your home, heat efficiently and provide what you need for many years to come.

If you’re not sure how to install a water heater and require the help of a professional, use ServiceWhale to locate contractors in your area that fit your budget and project. Log in to get started on your next home renovation project today!