When making a buying decision on a water heater, one of the most important factors that affect this is water heater prices. There are many water heaters available nowadays which offer a wide price range. They could go as cheap or as expensive, depending on the brand. When choosing a water heater, it is best to choose not only those that fit within your budget, but also those that give superior quality and efficiency. By choosing the right water heater, you could be saving a lot of money in the long run.
What is the first step in buying a water heater?
Before anything else, you should determine what type of water heater you want to have. You can choose between an electric or gas-fueled water heater. There are also water heaters that burn oil, kerosene and propane to heat water. Some use solar panels and wood heat.
Which type of water heater is less costly?
If you compare the different water heater prices of electric and gas-fueled water heaters, you will see that gas-fueled water heaters are more expensive. A 40 gallon electric water heater can cost you about $319.99 while a 40 gallon gas-fueled water heater can amount up to $419.99.
Do I get an electric water heater then?
If you base your purchase simply on the price tag, then yes you can buy an electric water heater. But if you really want to make a significant difference in your investments in the long run, you will have to look beyond the price and reconsider your decision.
What does that mean?
The Department of Energy performed a study last 2005, and results show that for every million Btus of heat produced, the average dollar cost of natural gas was found to be at $15.13. On the other hand, electricity was found to be a t $27.26. This clearly shows how natural gas is by far the cheapest, most convenient fuel used for water heaters.
Although gas-fueled water heaters can cost you about $100 more than electric water heaters, just think about how much money you will be saving in the long run by using natural gas fuel.
What can I do if I still prefer having an electric water heater?
There is a way for you to enjoy the economic advantages of using a gas-fueled water heater even if you’re using an electric water heater. You can remove the electric heating element in your water heater, thereby converting it into a mere storage tank. Afterwards, you can attach a gas-fired heating unit to your existing water tank using two inch water lines. With this type of system, you can be experiencing three times the heating capacity of a regular electric water heater.
As a whole, before taking the plunge in buying a new water heater, look beyond water heater prices. Find out what type of water heater is fit for your needs and budget. Although there are several water heaters that are inexpensive, always keep in mind that quality, efficiency, and energy consumption rate are equally important factors to consider too.
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