Whether you are building your dream home or upgrading your present home, having an efficient, affordable water heater is key. From taking baths and showers to washing dishes or clothes, your water heater is probably the most-used appliance in your home, and hot water usage is the second largest use of energy in your home. In fact, hot water usage accounts for 4 percent of America's entire energy consumption. That's why it's so important to find the best water heater deals in your area, whether you're buying a new model or repairing your current unit. We've evaluated several of the most highly rated water heaters by consumers and industry specialists to bring you our top three; they are Rheem water heaters, Bradford White water heaters, and Ecosmart tankless water heaters. Learn more about these great options.
Rheem offers a lifetime warranty on their Marathon water heater, which is easily one of the best new water heaters available. This heater ranges from 15 gallons to 105 gallons and has a blow-molded, seamless polybutene inner tank that is rust-proof and features several inches of foam insulation giving it an energy factor of up to 0.94. Once purchased, the lifetime warranty extends to the original owner in residential installations.
While your needs may vary depending on how many showers/tubs you have, and how often you use your dishwasher and clothes washer, generally, if you have less than four people in your household you will need a 40-50 gallon tank. For over five people you’ll need a 50-80 gallon tank.
Look for a manufacturer’s ID plate on the side of your water heater. Don’t confuse this with the yellow sticker that details the water heater’s energy efficiency. This information is on a smaller plate that also shows the tank’s gallon capacity, BTUs and serial number. Don't ever replace an older water heater with a newer model that has less BTUs.
That depends on the quality of the water heater and your water. Typically, a water heater should last between 10 to 12 years, but quality models can last up to 20 years. If your water heater’s warranty has expired, it’s time for a new water heater. More efficient water heaters are constantly being developed, so it’s smart to upgrade for energy savings.
On-demand water heaters, like the Ecosmart, are generally recognized as being the most energy efficient models, depending on use and family size. Most new water heaters are far more energy-efficient than those from 10 to 20 years ago. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), a two-person household could save up to 34 percent of water heating costs compared to storage water heaters. A larger household that uses 86 gallons per day could see a savings of 8 to 14 percent in energy costs.
For many people, buying products made in the USA is important. Bradford White has manufacturing operations in Rochester, NH, and Middleville and Niles, Michigan. Ecosmart is a private company that manufactures green energy products out of Waterury, CT. While Rheem is headquartered in Altlanta, GA, their products are made in Mexico.
While you can find great seasonal prices and sales on gas, electric and tankless water heaters at Lowe’s, The Home Depot and Sears ranging from $250 to $1,500 or more, remember that you will need to install them yourself. If you are not a DIY type, your best bet is to have one professionally installed by a local contractor. You might also save lots of money with a water heater repair service. All water heaters must eventually be replaced, but most problems are easily fixed by certified technicians.
Depending on the state you live in, the availability of programs, and the product you buy, you may be eligible for a tax credit or rebate on new water heaters. Check out Energy Star’s rebate finder site or their Federal Tax Credits page for more information.