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Electrify your water heating: discover the unbeatable advantages of electric water heaters

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Electric water heaters work by using an electric heating element to heat the water in the tank.
  • When the heating element is turned on, it heats the water around it, which in turn heats the rest of the water in the tank.
  • If you use a lot of hot water at peak times, such as in the morning or evening, you will need a water heater with a larger capacity.

Electric water heaters are a popular choice for homeowners looking for an efficient and reliable way to heat their water. They are relatively easy to install and maintain, and they can provide years of trouble-free service.

How Do Electric Water Heaters Work?

Electric water heaters work by using an electric heating element to heat the water in the tank. The heating element is typically located at the bottom of the tank, and it is surrounded by water. When the heating element is turned on, it heats the water around it, which in turn heats the rest of the water in the tank.

The temperature of the water in the tank is controlled by a thermostat. The thermostat is usually located on the side of the tank, and it can be adjusted to set the desired water temperature.

Types of Electric Water Heaters

There are two main types of electric water heaters: tank-type and tankless.

  • Tank-type water heaters store hot water in a tank. The size of the tank determines how much hot water is available at any given time. Tank-type water heaters are typically less expensive to purchase and install than tankless water heaters, but they are also less efficient.
  • Tankless water heaters heat water on demand. They do not have a storage tank, so they can provide an endless supply of hot water. Tankless water heaters are more efficient than tank-type water heaters, but they are also more expensive to purchase and install.

Choosing the Right Electric Water Heater

When choosing an electric water heater, there are a few things to consider:

  • The size of your household. The size of your household will determine how much hot water you need. A larger household will need a larger water heater.
  • Your hot water usage patterns. If you use a lot of hot water at peak times, such as in the morning or evening, you will need a water heater with a larger capacity.
  • The efficiency of the water heater. The efficiency of a water heater is measured by its Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more efficient the water heater.
  • The cost of the water heater. The cost of a water heater will vary depending on the size, type, and efficiency of the unit.

Installing an Electric Water Heater

Installing an electric water heater is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

1. Choose a location for the water heater. The water heater should be located in a well-ventilated area, such as a basement or utility room.
2. Connect the water lines. The water lines should be connected to the water heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Connect the electrical wires. The electrical wires should be connected to the water heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Turn on the water heater. Once the water heater is connected, turn it on and set the desired water temperature.

Maintaining an Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters require very little maintenance. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your water heater running efficiently:

  • Drain the water heater once a year. Draining the water heater will remove sediment and scale that can build up over time.
  • Inspect the heating element. The heating element should be inspected periodically for signs of damage.
  • Check the thermostat. The thermostat should be checked periodically to ensure that it is working properly.

Troubleshooting Electric Water Heater Problems

If you are experiencing problems with your electric water heater, there are a few things you can check:

  • Is the water heater turned on? Make sure that the water heater is turned on at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
  • Is the thermostat set to the correct temperature? The thermostat should be set to the desired water temperature.
  • Is the heating element damaged? The heating element should be inspected for signs of damage.
  • Is the water heater leaking? If the water heater is leaking, it may need to be replaced.

Final Thoughts on Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are a reliable and efficient way to heat your water. They are relatively easy to install and maintain, and they can provide years of trouble-free service. If you are looking for a new water heater, an electric water heater is a great option to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do electric water heaters last?

Electric water heaters typically last for 10-15 years.

How much does it cost to operate an electric water heater?

The cost to operate an electric water heater will vary depending on the size of the unit, the efficiency of the unit, and the cost of electricity in your area. However, you can expect to pay around $30-$60 per month to operate an electric water heater.

Can I install an electric water heater myself?

Installing an electric water heater is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you are not comfortable installing the water heater yourself, you can hire a plumber to do it for you.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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