Shopping Tips  -  Water Heaters

1. Decide on size and capacity your home will require. You can do this by estimating consumption during peak hour demand. Look for a water heater that has a first-hour rating (FHR) within 1-2 gallons of your peak hour demand.
   
   

   Calculation of Peak Hour Demand
   Use	Average gallons of hot water per usage		times used during 1 hour		gallons used in 1 hour
   Shower	20	x		=
   Bath	20	x		=
   Shaving	2	x		=
   Hands/Face washing	4	x		=
   Hair Shampoo	4	x		=
   Hand Dishwashing	4	x		=
   Automatic Dishwasher	14	x		=
   Food Preparation	5	x		=
   Wringer Clothes Dryer	26	x		=
   Automatic Clothes Washer	32	x		=
   			Total Peak Hour Demand	=

   
   Example:
   1 bath   20 x 1 =  20
   1 shower  20 x 1 =  20
   2 shampoo  4 x 2 =   8
   1 auto dishwasher 14 x 1 =  14
   Peak Hour Demand   62
   

2. Determine the best option for your household needs. Understand your options and the unique differences between traditional tank-style and tankless water heating units.
   
3. Determine the Energy Factor (EF) efficiency feature model. Remember that although a higher efficiency model may mean a higher initial cost, a more efficient water heater means lower operating costs over the life of the product.
   
4. Consider location and combustion venting options. Choices include common vertical vent pipes or chimneys, horizontal vents ideal for restricted vertical vent option areas, or power-assisted vents for homes without existing vertical pipes.
   
5. Comparison shop. Make sure to get several purchase and installation quotes.
6. Select a reliable contractor. Ask your contractor if he installs and services his products. Click here to locate an Alagasco Gas Advantage Contractor.