When it comes to hot water, having a reliable and efficient water heater in your Calgary home is essential. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Understanding the different types of water heaters can help you make an informed decision. So, let’s explore the options and find out which one suits you best.

Conventional storage tank water heater

The conventional storage tank water heater is the most common type found in households. It consists of a large tank that stores and heats water. These tanks are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. Cold water enters the tank, is heated by gas or electricity, and remains stored until needed. When hot water is used, cold water enters the tank to be heated again.

• Pros: Affordable initial cost, wide availability, suitable for moderate to high hot water demand
• Cons: Limited hot water supply, standby heat loss, larger physical footprint

Tankless water heater

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, provide hot water instantly without the need for a storage tank. They heat the water directly as it passes through the unit using gas or electricity. Tankless water heaters are compact, wall-mounted systems that heat water on demand, offering an endless supply of hot water.

• Pros: Energy-efficient, endless hot water supply, space-saving design, longer lifespan
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, limited flow rate for simultaneous use, may require additional units for large households

Heat pump water heater

Heat pump water heaters use electricity to transfer heat from the air or ground to heat the water. They work like a refrigerator in reverse, extracting heat from the surrounding environment and using it to heat the water. These systems are highly energy-efficient and can significantly reduce water heating costs.

• Pros: Energy-efficient, low operating costs, environmentally friendly
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, require a suitable location with enough surrounding air or ground temperature, may not perform well in cold climates

Solar water heater

Solar water heaters utilize the sun’s energy to heat the water. They consist of solar collectors that capture the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water in a storage tank. Solar water heaters can be active (using pumps or fans to circulate water) or passive (relying on natural convection).

• Pros: Renewable energy source, reduces energy bills, environmentally friendly
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, dependent on sunlight availability, may require a backup system for cloudy days or high hot water demand

Condensing water heater

Condensing water heaters are a type of tankless water heater that utilizes advanced technology to maximize energy efficiency. They extract heat from exhaust gases and use it to preheat the incoming cold water, reducing energy waste and improving efficiency.

• Pros: Energy-efficient, lower operating costs, reduced environmental impact
• Cons: Higher upfront cost, may require additional venting modifications

Choosing the right water heater

To select the right water heater for your home, consider factors such as your hot water needs, available energy sources, budget, and space limitations. Consulting with a professional plumber can provide valuable guidance based on your specific requirements.

Remember, understanding the different types of water heaters empowers you to make an informed decision. Whether you opt for a conventional storage tank, tankless, heat pump, solar, or condensing water heater, selecting the right system will ensure you have a reliable supply of hot water while optimizing energy efficiency and cost savings.

If you’d like help sorting through the choices, call the Son-Rise Plumbing crew at 403.873.2597.
We are plumbing professionals with years of experience and we are always available to help you. And remember, we’re not happy until YOU are happy!