When deciding if a water heater upgrade is right for your Arlington home, you will first need to compare the different types of energy-saving water heaters. Hybrid and solar water heaters are some of the most efficient water heaters on the market; however, there are many factors to consider before purchasing one of these new models.
It’s always a good idea to call a water heating expert for professional advice. To help you get started, here are some basic features and considerations for each type of water heater.
Hybrid Water Heaters
Instead of using a direct heating source like gas or oil, a hybrid water heater has a built-in heat pump, which uses a compressor and evaporator to draw in the heat from the indoor air surrounding the water heating unit. With dual variable fan speeds, the heat pump can generate enough energy to heat your water with up to 60% less of the costs per year.
In addition to using less energy and drawing heat directly from the ambient energy inside your home, some hybrid models have multiple settings and a digital interface to make changing temperatures and adjusting the operating mode much easier. On the lower setting, the water heater only uses the heat pump, but on a high demand setting, you can tap into the direct heating elements for a greater supply of hot water during times of more hot water usage.
You can also lower the standing temperature on most hybrid water heaters to save money, and some even have a vacation setting that will turn the hot water heater off when you are not home. The control that you have over the basic operation of the hybrid water heater makes it incredibly easy to save energy and ensure you have reliable hot water throughout the year.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar technology is one of the most sustainable methods for homeowners to help protect the environment and save money. Given the right conditions, installing a solar water heater could decrease your heating bills up to 80%. Because solar water heating systems are one of the most efficient ways to meet your the hot water needs in your home, you pay less in utilities, produce fewer emissions, and decrease the overall maintenance costs.
Taking full advantage of the savings from installing a solar water heating system involves various factors that every Arlington homeowner should consider. Solar water heaters will save money for homes located in areas where there’s a high amount of daily sunlight, and where certain fuel sources are not available or the cost of fuel is high. The need for reliable and consistent hot water, typically in larger homes, is another cost-ratio variable to consider.
While there’s the initial investment to consider, installing a solar water heating system could pay for itself within 10 to 15 years in energy savings. In addition to these savings, you can reduce your emissions and help preserve the environment by switching to solar power for your hot water needs. Call G & S Heating Cooling and Electric today to get started.
