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Try to picture all your family members taking back to back showers and then suddenly, you hear screams. Users from separate bathrooms hurriedly ask for your help – they run out of hot water all at the same time. Is it time for new hot water system installation?

If you’re planning to replace your old hot water storage tank or upgrade your water heater because the current system fails to meet your needs, then you’ve got to have some standards.

With so many hot water systems to choose from, narrowing your options to one that exactly meets your needs can be tough – but it’s possible. This post is a good starting point if you’re considering getting a new and cost-efficient hot water system.

Which Type of Hot Water System is best for Your Home?

While there are many renowned water heater brands around, they all fall conveniently into four types: storage tank, tankless, hybrid electric, and solar water heaters.

Sources: Rinnai, Energy.gov, Consumer Reports

Looking at the table above, the differences among the types of water heaters seem clear. But this oversimplification should not stop you from doing further research on other essential features.

Which hot water system features matter?

When deciding which type of water heater best suits your daily household needs, remember to look into these features:

1.   Fuel source availability and cost

If you live in an old house or building, there is a high chance that you have a gas or electric storage-tank water heating system installed. It could really use an upgrade as this conventional type of water heater is inefficient, e.g. standby heat losses and constant heating even when there’s no demand for hot water. You may opt for hybrid or tank less types with cost-effective fuel options available in your area.

2.   Warranty on the system, parts, and labor

Save on regular maintenance and emergency repairs by checking the warranties offered for each model and type of water heater. Most suppliers will provide you with warranty sheets (when you ask for them) so you can make a good comparison of each option.

3.   Life expectancy of the model

According to Consumer Reports, tankless or instantaneous types of water heaters can last for 20 years – the longest among all types. Storage-tank types can last for about 10-15 years so the smart choice seems obvious.

4.   Available space in your home

In the old times, most homes allot enough space for storage-tank water heaters. Now you have the option to get rid of tanks. Or you can go for a less space-greedy hybrid electric hot water system.  When renovating, keep in mind how you will fit the new water heating equipment and fixtures.

5.   Safety hazards

Some models can pose fire and contamination hazards. Be sure to discuss the potential risks and safety precautions you must take for every model and make of water heater.

Popular brands of water heaters have websites that provide complete specifications of each type and model of hot water system. For instance, you may browse the product pages of GE, Kenmore, Rheem, Whirlpool, or Rinnai prior to hitting the nearest trusted suppliers in your area. Or you can do the reverse: visit the nearest reputable local dealers of water heating equipment and ask for the pros and cons of each hot water system type and model.

If you’ve read this post until the very end, you have a pretty good idea of questions you should ask to find the best deal. For any questions or concerns, please let us know in the comment section.