When you consider all the water heater options on the market today, choosing one can seem daunting. You know you want to enjoy virtually endless hot water; however, you want to keep your utility bills low. Because heating water is usually the second largest energy expense for most families, you want to make a choice that won’t put too much strain on your wallet. Learning how to decode the labels on the sides of these appliances is a great place to start.
Decoding the Uniform Energy Factor
The most important number on a modern water heater is the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). This number tells you exactly how much of the water heater’s energy actually ends up as hot water coming out of your faucet. The higher the rating, the better the system is at using its resources. Heat pump water heaters have the best ratings, as they move heat rather than create it. This means you will get more warmth for every penny you spend on electricity.
The Secret of the First-Hour Rating
The first-hour rating tells you how much hot water the system will give you when it’s fully heated. It helps you size the unit perfectly so that you aren’t paying to heat a massive tank you never fully use, which is a major waste of energy. If your unit has a high UEF but a lower first-hour rating, you may be in for a cold surprise if all the members of your family try to get ready at the same time every morning.
Reading the Yellow EnergyGuide Label
That famous yellow sticker is your best friend when you’re comparing two different models. The most prominent part of the label is the estimated yearly operating cost. This gives you a ballpark figure of what you’ll have to spend to run that specific unit. This number is based on national average fuel prices. So, while your actual bill might vary, it gives you a perfect “apples-to-apples” comparison between a gas model and an electric one. Below the cost, you’ll see a scale that shows where that specific model falls compared to others in its class. If the arrow is pointing toward the left side of the scale, you’re looking at a budget-friendly option that might cost more to run over time. On the other hand, an arrow on the right means that you’re looking at a premium, efficient machine that pays for itself over time.
If you need a new unit but are unsure of which to choose, a plumber can help. Contact TNT for a consultation, and we will help you choose the perfect water heater installation for your Savannah, GA home.
