A water heater is a significant investment that requires a smart, informed decision to be made by homeowners. With the wrong water heater, you might spend more on utilities and have less efficient heating than you would with the right unit.

With that in mind, the team at Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Service is here with this quick guide on what to consider when buying a water heater.

Send us a message today to receive a free quote!

Fuel Source

The majority of modern homes use electric or gas water heaters.

• Most electric units use 220 volts and connect to your existing electrical outlets. Electric units have a heating element that conducts a current to heat water.
• Gas heaters use either natural gas or propane. Gas heaters have an electrical ignition that ignites gas to heat water.

For best results, ensure you choose a type of unit that is compatible with your existing infrastructure. Example: a gas heater might require the installation of a separate gas line, which will affect installation costs. 

Tank or Tankless

Tank water heaters have a large reservoir tank that holds heater water to distribute when necessary.

Tankless water heaters continuously heat water as needed by the system.

While tank heaters are more common and less expensive, tankless heaters offer greater efficiency and are less likely to leak.

Water Heater Size

The typical water heater needs to be able to provide around 40 to 50 gallons for every one to two people, depending on average hot water usage.

Water heaters that are too large or too small are inefficient and will cost more to run than properly sized ones. A qualified water heater replacement expert can help you size your unit correctly to achieve maximum efficiency.

Water Heater FAQ

Below are some common questions we receive about water heater replacement in Boise, ID:

Are Electric or Gas Water Heaters Cheaper?

Electric water heaters are cheaper to install because they mostly use existing electrical hookups, while gas heaters require a separate gas line. However, gas heaters are more affordable to run month to month due to the lower costs of natural gas.

Can I Install a Water Heater on My Own?

You can, but we do not recommend it. Water heater parts connect to both your plumbing and electrical systems, so it’s important to have a qualified expert to ensure proper installation. Improper installation can damage your system and lead to other problems, such as leaks.

How Long Does It Take To Replace a Water Heater?

It depends on the size of your system and your home’s plumbing layout, but the typical replacement and installation job takes about two to three hours.

Plumbing & Heating Services in the South Shore

Don’t let your plumbing and heating in the hands of amateurs – hire us instead. Contact Blue Harbor Plumbing, Heating & Cooling online or give us a call today at (781) 421-7377 to schedule your water heater repair or installation in the South Shore!