Replacing appliances and fixtures, such as water heaters, is unfortunate and costly but remains a routine part of home ownership. There’s no escaping the fact that household necessities will eventually break down to the point where a repair is no longer economical or possible. At this point, you’ll have to replace them.
The typical water heater lasts between eight and 12 years, and a replacement could become necessary once yours reaches an advanced age. Issues like rust, leaks, and failing to heat water are common symptoms of a bad water heater, and it’s in your best interests to identify these problems early, so you don’t end up with water damage inside your home or business.
Looking at energy-efficient models makes a lot of sense when searching for a replacement unit. These products can save you money on your monthly energy bills, and you can also rest easy knowing you’re doing your part to protect the environment.
You’ll have a few options when purchasing an environmentally-friendly water heater. Here’s a look at some of the best products available for your residential or commercial property in Tacoma, Seattle or Olympia, WA.
Energy Star Water Heaters
If you want to stick with a traditional tank water heater, going with an energy-efficient model is your best bet. Water heaters with Energy Star certification use less energy than older units, saving you money.
The precise amount you’ll save depends on how much you use hot water in your home, but Energy Star water heaters utilize about 10% less energy than standard models. This reduction in energy consumption could lower your gas or electric bills by hundreds of dollars over the unit’s lifetime while keeping dangerous greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere.
Tankless Water Heaters
Of course, tank water heaters aren’t the only option because you could always install a tankless water heater in your home or business. These products are even more efficient than Energy Star units because they heat the water on demand, reducing waste.
The amount you can save depends on how much hot water your household utilizes. Families that use less than 41 gallons per day could use 24-34% less energy to heat their water. Even homes that use a ton of water will experience savings, although the amount is between 8% and 14%.
Tankless water heaters are also easier to repair and maintain than conventional tank water heaters, primarily because you don’t have to worry about the tank rusting or leaking. The result is a longer lifespan and even more cost savings.
Homeowners that are serious about protecting the environment will find they’re using less energy and less water when investing in a tankless option. The result is an eco-friendly solution for your residence.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
The heat pump water heater is a new addition to the water heater field. These units are the most energy efficient of the bunch and can use 70% less energy than traditional water heaters. You’ll have to pay more upfront, but there are all kinds of rebates and tax credits you could find yourself eligible for, and you’ll save money every month once you have your unit installed.
These products have zero emissions and will offset the cost quickly because you could save over $4,500 according to Energy Star during the unit’s lifetime compared to a traditional water heater. They also last a bit longer, with the typical product running for 15 years without many problems.
Heat pump technology is becoming more prevalent, so applying it to heating water makes a lot of sense as more households look for ways to save money and become more eco-friendly for the benefit of the planet.
The Installation Process
No matter the heat pump option you go with, booking a professional installer from Hunt’s Services is essential. You don’t want to take any chances regarding your installation, so seeking a contractor with significant industry experience is worth your time.
The installation of an Energy Star water heater is the most straightforward because the infrastructure is always in place. Your contractor can quickly remove your old unit and install a new one with the existing connections, minimizing your disruption.
A tankless water heater installation will likely require access to your basement or crawlspace and will take a bit more time. However, since you won’t need a water tank anymore, it’ll free up space in your closet or basement. Your contractor will identify the best spot to install a tankless water heater, and the process won’t take too long once they begin.
Heat pump water heaters store water in a tank but don’t use gas or electricity to heat the water directly. Instead, they pull warm air from the room or outside your building and use it to warm the water in the tank. You’ll want to install your heat pump water heater in a warm space to maximize its efficiency. In addition, investing in a hybrid unit with supplemental gas or electric capabilities ensures you’ll still have hot water on the coldest days in the winter.
Book Your Appointment
When the time to replace your water heater comes, Hunt’s Services can assist. A team member will visit your home and speak to you about your energy-saving goals, ensuring you end up with the right product to meet your needs.
From there, we’ll install your new water heater and provide all the maintenance and repair support you require in the future. Contact Us here or Call Hunt’s Services at 253-533-7500 to book your water heater installation in Seattle, Tacoma, and many other locations in King, Pierce and Thurston Counties.
