The Ultimate Water Heater Buying & Installation Guide
Hot water. You don’t think about it much—until you step into a cold shower, or the laundry grinds to a halt. Picking the right water heater is a big deal for your home comfort, efficiency, and wallet. At McIntosh Plumbing, we help homeowners make sense of the options, navigate safety, and avoid those “uh-oh” moments that can turn into emergency plumbing calls.
Ready to turn confusion into confidence? Here’s everything you need to know about buying and installing a water heater, from quick tips to what really matters behind the scenes.
Types of Water Heaters 🔥
Choosing the right water heater isn’t just about brand or price. It’s about matching your home, habits, and budget to the right system. Here’s a breakdown—think of it like picking the right tool for the job.
Tank Water Heaters
- How it works: Stores 20–80 gallons of hot water in a tank, keeps it hot around the clock.
- Pros: Lower upfront cost, familiar technology, easy to maintain.
- Cons: Takes up space, “runs out” of hot water, higher standby energy loss.
Tankless Water Heaters
- How it works: Heats water instantly as you need it; no storage tank.
- Pros: Endless hot water, smaller footprint, energy savings over time.
- Cons: Higher installation cost, may need upgrades to gas/electric lines, can struggle with simultaneous high demand.
Hybrid (Heat Pump) Water Heaters
- How it works: Moves heat from the air into the water, like a refrigerator in reverse.
- Pros: Super energy efficient, can cut utility bills in half, eco-friendly.
- Cons: More expensive upfront, needs more installation space, works best in warm areas.
Specialty Options
- Point-of-use heaters: Small, for one sink or appliance.
- Solar heaters: Use the sun’s power—great for reducing bills, but need backup for cloudy days.
Tip: Ask about rebates for energy-efficient models from your utility or ENERGY STAR®.
How to Size Your Water Heater
Sizing isn’t guesswork—it’s like picking shoes that fit. Too small, and you’re left in the cold. Too big, and you waste energy.
For Tank Water Heaters
- Rule of thumb: 1–2 people: 30–40 gallons. 3–4 people: 40–50 gallons. 5+: 50–80 gallons.
- Think about: Morning rush hours, back-to-back showers, laundry, and dishwasher use.
For Tankless Water Heaters
- Key number: Gallons per minute (GPM). Add up the flow rates of simultaneous uses (shower + dishwasher + washing machine).
- Example: Shower (2 GPM) + Dishwasher (1.5 GPM) = 3.5 GPM minimum.
Hybrid/Heat Pump Water Heaters
- Sizing is similar to tanks, but consider ambient air temperature and space for the unit.
Pro tip: Factor in climate—colder incoming water needs more power to heat.
Energy Efficiency: What Matters
Water heaters are energy guzzlers—second only to heating and cooling in many homes. Here’s how to keep your bills in check:
- Look for the ENERGY STAR® label.
- Compare EF/UEF ratings (higher is better).
- Insulate pipes and tanks to reduce heat loss.
- Set your thermostat to 120°F for safety and savings.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to a high-efficiency water heater can cut water heating costs by 10–50%. That’s money in your pocket.
Installation Process
Buying the right heater is just the start. Proper installation keeps your system safe and efficient. Here’s a step-by-step look at what’s involved.
1. Site Assessment
- Check gas/electric supply, venting, and space requirements.
- Inspect for code or permit needs (see local building department).
2. Removal of Old Unit
- Turn off gas/electric and water.
- Drain and safely disconnect.
3. New Heater Placement
- Position and secure the new heater.
- Install venting, pressure relief valve, expansion tank (if required).
4. Connections
- Attach water, gas, or electrical lines according to manufacturer instructions and local code.
- Test all connections for leaks.
5. System Start-Up
- Fill tank, purge air, check for leaks.
- Test safety devices, thermostat, and temperature.
Safety note: Water heaters involve gas lines, high voltage, and pressurized water. Local codes matter—always check with your city or county for permits and inspections.
Professional vs. DIY Installation 🛠️
Thinking of tackling installation yourself? Some homeowners do. But weigh the risks—like changing your own brakes, it’s possible but not always wise.
DIY Pros
- Potential cost savings.
- Satisfaction of hands-on work.
DIY Cons
- Voided warranties if not installed by a licensed pro.
- Risk of gas leaks, electrical hazards, water damage.
- Building code violations can mean fines or insurance issues.
When to Call a Professional
- Gas or electrical work is required.
- Code compliance or permit is needed.
- You aren’t 100% confident in plumbing or safety steps.
Licensed plumbers, like our team at McIntosh Plumbing, handle all the technical, safety, and permit details—keeping you, your family, and your home safe.
Cost Factors to Consider
Water heater prices are like an iceberg—what you see is only part of the story. Here’s what to budget for:
- Unit cost: $500–$3,000+ depending on type/size.
- Installation: $600–$2,500+, more for complex jobs.
- Permits/inspection: Varies by location.
- Extra materials: Venting, expansion tank, new lines.
- Disposal: Removing the old unit.
Warranty Considerations
- Standard warranties: 6–12 years (tank), 10–20 years (tankless).
- Longer warranties usually mean better components.
- Read the fine print: DIY installs may void coverage.
Local Code and Permit Considerations
Every city or county has its own rules. Most require permits for water heater replacement or installation. Inspections help catch leaks, backdrafting, and code issues before they become emergencies.
- Gas water heaters: Must meet venting, seismic, and gas code standards.
- Electric water heaters: Electrical panel capacity, GFCI/AFCI requirements.
- Backflow prevention: Required in many places.
Check your local building department or refer to the International Plumbing Code (IPC) for details.
Practical Tips for Homeowners 📝
- Replace before failure: Don’t wait until your tank bursts—plan ahead at 10–12 years old.
- Flush tanks annually: Removes sediment, improves efficiency.
- Install leak detection alarms: Catch small leaks before they grow.
- Test pressure relief valve: Once a year for safety.
Safety Notes
- Gas smell? Leave your home and call your gas utility right away.
- Water on the floor? Shut off water and power, then call for emergency plumbing help.
- Don’t ignore strange noises: Rumbling, popping, or scorching smells spell trouble.
When It’s an Emergency
If your water heater is leaking, has failed, or is causing water damage, act fast. Shut off the water supply and power or gas supply. Then contact a licensed emergency plumbing service—like McIntosh Plumbing—to prevent further damage and restore hot water quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical water heater last?
Most tank-style heaters last 8–12 years. Tankless units can run 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
Can I switch from a tank to tankless?
Yes, but it may require upgrades to gas lines or electrical service. A professional can assess your home’s needs.
How do I know if my water heater is failing?
Watch for rusty water, rumbling noises, leaking, or inconsistent temperatures.
Are water filtration systems needed for my heater?
Hard water can shorten water heater life. Consider Water Filtration Systems near you if you notice buildup or mineral deposits.
Seasonal and Local Considerations 🌦️
- Cold climates: Heaters work harder; insulate pipes and tanks.
- Earthquake regions: Strapping/seismic bracing often required by code.
- Water quality: Hard or corrosive water? Adds wear—ask about filtration or maintenance plans.
Authoritative Resources
- U.S. Department of Energy: Water heating efficiency tips.
- ENERGY STAR®: Certified water heater models.
- International Plumbing Code (IPC): Safety and installation standards.
- Local building department: Permitting and inspection rules.
Ready to upgrade your hot water or need emergency plumbing help?
Call McIntosh Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at 888-835-0389 .