When it comes to energy saving appliances, a water heater is one of the best investments you can make for your home. Not only will it help reduce your utility bills, but it will also help reduce your carbon footprint. With so many options on the market, choosing the best energy saving water heater can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when selecting a water heater, as well as some of the top energy saving models available.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Fuel Type: There are different types of water heaters available on the market, each using different fuel sources. The most common types are electric, gas, propane, and solar. Electric water heaters are generally more energy efficient than gas or propane models, but they can be more expensive to operate. Solar water heaters are the most energy efficient option, as they harness the power of the sun to heat your water. However, they can be costly to install.
2. Energy Efficiency: When choosing a water heater, look for models that are Energy Star certified. These models are designed to be more energy efficient, which can lead to significant savings on your utility bills. Look for a high Energy Factor (EF) rating, which measures the efficiency of the heater. The higher the EF rating, the more energy efficient the water heater is.
3. Tank vs. Tankless: Another important factor to consider is whether you want a tank or tankless water heater. Tankless models are more energy efficient because they only heat water as it is needed, whereas tank models continuously heat a large tank of water. While tankless models are more expensive upfront, they can provide significant savings in the long run.
4. Size: It’s important to choose a water heater that is the right size for your household. A water heater that is too large will waste energy, while one that is too small will struggle to meet your hot water needs. Consider the size of your household, as well as your peak hot water usage, when determining the size of your water heater.
Top Energy Saving Water Heaters
1. Rheem Performance Platinum 50 Gal. Hybrid Water Heater: This Energy Star certified water heater combines the efficiency of a heat pump with the convenience of a traditional tank water heater. It features a high EF rating of 3.55, meaning it is highly energy efficient. The heat pump technology can save you up to $480 per year on your energy bills.
2. AO Smith Signature Premier 50 Gal. High Efficiency Water Heater: This gas water heater is Energy Star certified and boasts a high EF rating of 0.64. It features advanced technology that maximizes energy efficiency while providing ample hot water for your household. Its self-cleaning feature helps maintain efficiency over time.
3. Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Tankless Water Heater: This tankless water heater is highly energy efficient, with an EF rating of 0.96. It provides endless hot water on demand, making it ideal for households with high hot water usage. It also has a compact design, saving space in your home.
4. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW Tankless Water Heater: This tankless water heater is another top energy saving option, with an EF rating of 0.99. It features advanced flow control technology that ensures a constant temperature output, even when demand fluctuates. It is also easy to install and maintain.
Conclusion
Choosing the best energy saving water heater for your home involves considering factors such as fuel type, energy efficiency, tank vs. tankless, and size. By selecting a high-efficiency model that meets your hot water needs, you can save money on your utility bills while reducing your environmental impact. Some of the top energy saving water heaters on the market include the Rheem Performance Platinum Hybrid, AO Smith Signature Premier, Rinnai Ultra Series, and Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus. Invest in a quality water heater today and start reaping the benefits of energy savings.