Facts About Water Heaters

A water heater is vital to your total home comfort, so it's important to understand the basics of how it works. There are a lot of myths and untruths out there about water heaters, so protect yourself and get to know your water heater!

Conventional Storage Water Heater

First, let's learn a little more about a conventional storage water heater. Basically, a water heater keeps a reservoir of hot water available at all times so that when you turn on the tap, it's ready to meet your needs. It is steel coated with a protective layer of glass.

In order to heat up the water, you need energy. Your water heater gets its supply of energy from either natural gas or electricity. Whenever you use energy to heat something, some energy is lost in the process.

Sediment

Over time, small amounts of sediment or lime can accumulate at the bottom of the tank. The hot water that you use is drawn from the top of the tank, which is why your tank is largely unaffected by small sediment deposits. If you notice a rust-coloured tinge to your hot water, or feel it’s taking longer to heat the water than normal, call your local service provider.

Gas Water Heaters

Depending on its size and age, a natural gas water heater can be anywhere from 45% (75 gal pre-1990) to 61% energy efficient.  Newer Energy Star models are 62% energy efficient or above.  Natural gas water heaters need to be vented, either to a brick-lined or metal chimney, or out the side wall with a plastic pipe.

Electric Water Heaters

You could also have an electric water heater in your home. These tanks are in the 93% energy efficient range, although the cost of the energy they use is typically more expensive.  They operate differently from natural gas water heater tanks, in that recovery time is longer, and heating capacity is lower but they do not require an external vent.

Tankless Water Heaters

A tankless water heater is an option that some homeowners are interested in. These units provide continuous hot water by rapidly heating it when you turn on your tap. Consequently, hot water is available for a longer time, but it may at times be at a lower rate of flow. The energy efficiency is in the 82%+ range.