WaterHeaterBuyingGuide · Gas Advantage

Water Heater Buying Guide

If your tank-type water heater is approximately 8-10 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Piedmont’s natural gas experts can help you select the right natural gas water heater and have it properly installed.

What type of water heater do I want?

There are two main types of natural gas water heaters: tank and tankless. Each type has its pros and cons.

Storage Tank Water Heaters
Pros
- Lower initial cost
- Can be installed inside or outside (if properly covered)
- Some models continue to function during a power outage
Cons
- Amount of available hot water is limited by tank size
- Continuously heats and reheats the water in the tank, even when not needed
- Average life expectancy is about 8-10 years
- Installation options are limited
Tankless Water Heaters
Pros
- Heats water on demand to save energy and money
- Limitless hot water supply
- Average life expectancy is 20 years or more
- All parts are replaceable
- About the size of a suitcase
- Can be installed inside or outside
- Precise temperature controls
- Optional recirculating pump allows for quick hot water from all faucets
- No pilot light
Cons
- Powered electrically (battery backup is available)
- Higher initial cost

What is the proper size?

To avoid a family member or guest having to take a cold shower, consider these questions:

How many full and half bathrooms do you have?
How many people live in your house?
Do you frequently wash clothes or dishes when people are taking showers?
Do you have a large soaker or jacuzzi tub?
Do you have any unique hot water needs?

Locating the new water heater

You can install the new water heater in the same location as your old one to save time and money. However, if you need to relocate it, discuss these issues with your sales representative:

Venting Requirements

If installed inside, how will the water heater be vented?
Inside vs. Outside

What are the differences between installing the unit inside and outside?
Electrical Wiring

If needed, is there an electrical outlet near the installation site?
Gas Line

Will the installer need to run a gas line for the new water heater?
Bathrooms & Kitchens

All things considered, where would be the best location for the new water heater?

What other factors should I consider?

It isn’t just the size of the storage tank that matters when selecting a new water heater; its efficiency and First-Hour Rating are equally important.

Weighing the costs

When deciding which model is right for you, read each unit’s UEF. Less expensive models tend to be less efficient. Consider the old expression, “You can pay me now or pay me later.”
A water heater’s Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) is an indication of its efficiency

The higher the UEF, the more efficient the unit. Mid-range efficiency natural gas tank water heaters have a UEF of between .58 and .62. Tankless units usually have a UEF of .81 or higher. Effective Jan. 15, 2018, the Department of Energy changed testing standards from using an Energy Factor (EF) to a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF).
It’s not just about the tank’s size

First-Hour Rating (FHR) actually determines how much hot water the tank can supply in an hour. This number is printed on the tank’s yellow “Energy Guide” label.
Tankless water heaters are different

Tankless water heaters have different gas requirements than tank models and may require a different size gas meter or regulator to handle the extra load. They also have other unique installation requirements, including water pressure, cold water pipe size, electrical requirements, etc. Piedmont’s experts can guide you through these issues.

Selecting an installer

Installers should be licensed, bonded and insured to protect you and your home if something is damaged or someone is injured during the installation. In most cases, using an unlicensed installer will void the warranty. In the case of Rinnai tankless water heaters, the installer must also be a certified Rinnai installer or the warranty will be voided.

Codes and permits

You’re at risk if your installer does not follow building codes or fails to pull the proper permits.
Experience

Make sure the installer is experienced by checking his or her references. Also, demand a written estimate for the work.
Disposal of old equipment

Some installers will not dispose of the old unit, while others will charge an extra disposal fee. Make sure you know what to expect up front to avoid an additional expense.

Piedmont Natural Gas offers installation and maintenance for most types of natural gas water heaters

When it’s time to buy a new water heater, look to the experts at Piedmont Natural Gas and be assured you’re getting the best model for your needs. It will be installed by a licensed, bonded and insured professional who will follow all building codes and obtain the necessary permits. Our installers are also Rinnai-certified. And don’t worry about the old water heater. We’ll dispose of it at no additional charge.