If you’re like most Canadians, you probably don’t think much about your water heater until something goes wrong with it. But did you know that your water heater is one of the most important and energy-consuming appliances in your home? It accounts for nearly 20% of your household energy use and provides you with hot water for all your daily needs. That’s why it’s crucial to choose the right type of water heater for your home and keep it in good shape.
But how do you know which type of water heater is best for you? And what are some of the common problems that can affect your water heater’s performance and lifespan? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll explain the different types of water heaters available in Canada, their pros and cons, and how to fix some of the most common issues. By the end of this post, you’ll be a water heater expert and be able to make an informed decision for your home.
Types of Water Heaters
There are four main types of water heaters that you can choose from: storage tank water heaters, solar water heaters, heat pump water heaters and tankless water heaters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors such as your household size, hot water demand, climate and budget. Let’s take a closer look at each type and see what they have to offer.
Storage Tank Water Heaters
Storage tank water heaters are the most common and familiar type of water heater. They consist of a large tank that holds a certain amount of water (usually between 40 to 60 gallons) and keeps it hot using a gas burner or an electric heating element. When you turn on a hot water tap or appliance, the hot water flows out of the tank through a pipe and is replaced by cold water that enters the tank through another pipe. The heating mechanism then turns on to heat up the new water and maintain the temperature.
Storage tank water heaters are relatively simple and inexpensive to install and operate. They also provide a steady supply of hot water that is always ready when you need it. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as:
– They waste energy by keeping the water hot even when you’re not using it, resulting in standby heat loss and higher energy bills.
– They have a limited capacity and may run out of hot water during periods of high demand or consecutive use.
– They take up more space than other types of water heaters and may require venting for gas models.
– They have a shorter lifespan than other types of water heaters (usually around 10 to 15 years) and may be prone to corrosion and leaks.
An ENERGY STAR certified gas storage tank water heater can save 9% more energy compared to standard gas storage water heater models. You can also reduce heat loss by insulating the tank and pipes, lowering the thermostat setting, installing a timer or using less hot water.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water for your home. They consist of solar collectors that are installed on your roof or in your yard, where they absorb solar radiation and transfer it to a heat-transfer fluid (usually antifreeze). The fluid then circulates through pipes to a storage tank that holds the heated water. The storage tank may be integrated with the solar collectors or located separately inside your home. Most solar water heaters also have a backup conventional water heater (electric or gas) that kicks in when there is not enough solar energy available.
Solar water heaters are very energy efficient and environmentally friendly, as they can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. They can also lower your energy bills significantly over time, especially if you live in a sunny area with high hot water demand. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as:
– They have a high upfront cost and installation complexity compared to other types of water heaters.
– They require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance and prevent freezing or overheating.
– They may not be suitable for all climates or locations, as they depend on the availability and intensity of sunlight.
– They may not provide enough hot water during cloudy days or winter months, requiring more use of the backup system.
ENERGY STAR certified solar water heaters can be up to 60% more energy efficient than standard storage Tank water Heater.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. They work like a refrigerator in reverse: they extract heat from the surrounding air (indoor or outdoor) and transfer it to the water in a storage tank. The cooled air is then released back into the environment or used for space cooling. Heat pump water heaters have a backup electric heating element that activates when there is not enough heat available from the air source.
Heat pump water heaters are very energy efficient, as they use much less electricity than conventional electric water heaters. They can also help you save on cooling costs in the summer, as they remove heat from the air. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as:
– They have a higher upfront cost than other types of water heaters.
– They may not work well in cold climates or areas with low humidity, as they rely on the availability and quality of the air source.
– They may produce noise and vibration during operation, which could be annoying or disruptive.
– They may require additional space and ventilation for installation and operation.
ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters can save up to 50% more energy than standard electric water heater models. You can also maximize their efficiency by choosing the right size and location for your system, setting the thermostat properly and cleaning the air filter regularly.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters, do not store hot water in a tank. Instead, they heat water directly as it flows through a series of coils or heat exchangers when you turn on a hot water faucet or appliance. They use gas burners or electric heating elements to heat the water quickly and continuously, providing an endless supply of hot water.
Tankless water heaters are very energy efficient, as they eliminate standby heat loss and only use energy when you need hot water. They also have a longer lifespan than other types of water heaters (usually around 20 years) and are less likely to leak or burst. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as:
– They have a higher upfront cost and installation complexity than other types of water heaters.
– They may not be able to provide enough hot water for multiple simultaneous uses or large appliances, such as bathtubs or washing machines.
– They may require additional upgrades or modifications to your plumbing, gas lines or electrical system to accommodate their high power demand.
– They may be affected by mineral buildup or hard water, which could reduce their efficiency and performance.
ENERGY STAR certified tankless water heaters can save up to 30% more energy than standard storage water heater models. You can also improve their efficiency by choosing the right size and type of system for your home, installing it close to the point of use and using low-flow fixtures and appliances.
Considerations When Choosing a Water Heater
Now that you know the different types of water heaters and their pros and cons, how do you decide which one is best for you? There are several factors that you should consider before buying a new water heater, such as:
– Your household size and hot water demand: How many people live in your home and how much hot water do they use on a daily basis? Do you have peak periods of high demand or frequent simultaneous uses? Do you have large appliances that require a lot of hot water? These questions will help you determine the capacity and flow rate of your water heater.
– Your energy source and availability: What kind of fuel source do you have access to in your home? Natural gas, propane, electricity or solar? How reliable and affordable is it? These questions will help you determine the type and efficiency of your water heater.
– Your climate and location: What is the average temperature and humidity level in your area? How much sunlight do you get throughout the year? These questions will help you determine the suitability and performance of your water heater.
– Your budget and preferences: How much are you willing to spend on a new water heater? How much do you care about energy efficiency and environmental impact? How much space do you have for installation and operation? These questions will help you determine the cost and features of your water heater.
To help you compare different types of water heaters based on these factors, you can use online tools such as Natural Resources Canada’s Water Heater Guide or ENERGY STAR’s Product Finder. You can also consult with a professional contractor or plumber who can assess your specific needs and recommend the best option for you.
How Much Water Heaters Cost
The cost of a new water heater depends on several factors, such as the type, size, efficiency and features of the water heater, as well as the installation and maintenance costs. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a new water heater in Canada ranges from $800 to $2,500, depending on the type of water heater. Here is a breakdown of the typical costs for each type of water heater:
– Storage tank water heaters: These are the cheapest type of water heater to buy and install, costing between $500 and $1,500 for the unit and between $300 and $600 for the installation. However, they also have higher operating costs due to their lower efficiency and standby heat loss. The average annual energy cost for a storage tank water heater is around $400 for gas models and around $600 for electric models.
– Solar water heaters: These are the most expensive type of water heater to buy and install, costing between $2,000 and $6,000 for the unit and between $1,000 and $4,000 for the installation. However, they also have the lowest operating costs due to their high efficiency and use of free solar energy. The average annual energy cost for a solar water heater is around $50 for gas backup models and around $100 for electric backup models.
– Heat pump water heaters: These are moderately priced type of water heater to buy and install, costing between $1,000 and $3,000 for the unit and between $300 and $800 for the installation. However, they also have low operating costs due to their high efficiency and use of ambient heat. The average annual energy cost for a heat pump water heater is around $200 for electric models.
– Tankless water heaters: These are also moderately priced type of water heater to buy and install, costing between $800 and $2,500 for the unit and between $300 and $1,000 for the installation. However, they also have low operating costs due to their high efficiency and elimination of standby heat loss. The average annual energy cost for a tankless water heater is around $200 for gas models and around $300 for electric models.
In addition to the initial purchase and installation costs, you should also consider the maintenance and repair costs of your water heater. Depending on the type and quality of your water heater, you may need to perform regular maintenance tasks such as flushing the tank, replacing the anode rod, cleaning the filter or descaling the heat exchanger. You may also need to hire a professional service technician or plumber to fix any problems that may arise with your water heater. The average cost of repairing a water heater in Canada ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the type and extent of the problem.
To save money on your water heater costs, you can look for rebates or incentives offered by various programs such as ENERGY STAR, Natural Resources Canada or your local utility company. You can also compare different models based on their energy factor (EF) or uniform energy factor (UEF), which indicate how efficiently they use energy to heat water. The higher the EF or UEF, the more energy efficient the water heater is.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Like any other appliance in your home, your water heater may develop some common problems that can affect its functionality and lifespan. Some of these problems can be easily fixed by yourself or with minimal professional help, while others may require more extensive repairs or replacement. Here are some of the most common problems that you may encounter with your water heater and how to troubleshoot and fix them:
No Hot Water
If your water heater is not producing any hot water at all, there could be several possible causes depending on the type of water heater you have.
– For gas water heaters: Check if the gas supply valve is open and if there is any gas leak. Check if the pilot light is on and if it is not, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check if the thermocouple is working properly and if it is not, replace it with a new one. Check if the gas control valve is functioning correctly and if it is not, replace it with a new one.
– For electric water heaters: Check if the power supply cord is plugged in and if there is any power outage. Check if the circuit breaker or fuse is tripped or blown and if it is, reset or replace it. Check if the high-temperature limit switch is tripped and if it is, press the reset button. Check if the heating elements are working properly and if they are not, replace them with new ones. Check if the thermostat is set correctly and if it is not, adjust it to the desired temperature.
– For solar water heaters: Check if the solar collectors are exposed to enough sunlight and if they are not, remove any obstructions or debris. Check if the backup system is working properly and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the pump and controller are functioning correctly and if they are not, replace them with new ones.
– For heat pump water heaters: Check if the air filter is clean and if it is not, wash or replace it. Check if the air source is adequate and if it is not, relocate the water heater to a warmer or more humid area. Check if the backup system is working properly and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for electric water heaters. Check if the compressor and fan are operating correctly and if they are not, replace them with new ones.
– For tankless water heaters: Check if the water flow rate is sufficient and if it is not, increase the water pressure or use fewer faucets or appliances at the same time. Check if the gas or electric supply is adequate and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the heat exchanger is clean and free of scale and if it is not, descale it with a vinegar solution or a commercial cleaner.
Not Enough Hot Water
If your water heater is producing some hot water but not enough to meet your needs, there could be several possible causes depending on the type of water heater you have.
– For storage tank water heaters: Check if the tank capacity is adequate for your household size and hot water demand and if it is not, consider upgrading to a larger tank or a different type of water heater. Check if the thermostat is set correctly and if it is not, adjust it to a higher temperature (but not higher than 60°C to prevent scalding and bacterial growth). Check if the dip tube is intact and if it is not, replace it with a new one.
– For solar water heaters: Check if the solar collectors are exposed to enough sunlight and if they are not, remove any obstructions or debris. Check if the backup system is working properly and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the storage tank size is adequate for your household size and hot water demand and if it is not, consider upgrading to a larger tank or a different type of water heater.
– For heat pump water heaters: Check if the air source is adequate and if it is not, relocate the water heater to a warmer or more humid area. Check if the thermostat is set correctly and if it is not, adjust it to a higher temperature (but not higher than 60°C to prevent scalding and bacterial growth). Check if the storage tank size is adequate for your household size and hot water demand and if it is not, consider upgrading to a larger tank or a different type of water heater.
– For tankless water heaters: Check if the water flow rate is sufficient and if it is not, increase the water pressure or use fewer faucets or appliances at the same time. Check if the gas or electric supply is adequate and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the heat exchanger is clean and free of scale and if it is not, descale it with a vinegar solution or a commercial cleaner.
Water Too Hot
If your water heater is producing water that is too hot for your comfort or safety, there could be several possible causes depending on the type of water heater you have.
– For storage tank water heaters: Check if the thermostat is set correctly and if it is not, adjust it to a lower temperature (but not lower than 49°C to prevent bacterial growth). Check if the thermostat is working properly and if it is not, replace it with a new one. Check if the heating elements are working properly and if they are not, replace them with new ones.
– For solar water heaters: Check if the solar collectors are exposed to too much sunlight and if they are, install a shade or cover to reduce the solar radiation. Check if the backup system is working properly and if it is not, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the temperature and pressure relief valve is functioning correctly and if it is not, replace it with a new one.
– For heat pump water heaters: Check if the thermostat is set correctly and if it is not, adjust it to a lower temperature (but not lower than 49°C to prevent bacterial growth). Check if the thermostat is working properly and if it is not, replace it with a new one. Check if the compressor and fan are operating correctly and if they are not, replace them with new ones.
– For tankless water heaters: Check if the water flow rate is too low and if it is, decrease the water pressure or use more faucets or appliances at the same time. Check if the gas or electric supply is too high and if it is, follow the troubleshooting steps for gas or electric water heaters. Check if the heat exchanger is clean and free of scale and if it is not, descale it with a vinegar solution or a commercial cleaner.
Water Heater Leaks
If your water heater is leaking water from any part of the unit, there could be several possible causes depending on the type of water heater you have.
– For storage tank water heaters: Check if the temperature and pressure relief valve is leaking and if it is, test its operation by lifting its lever and releasing some water. If it does not stop leaking after closing the lever, replace it with a new one. Check if the drain valve is leaking and if it is, tighten it or replace it with a new one. Check if the tank is leaking and if it is, turn off the power and water supply to the water heater and drain the tank completely. A leaking tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a new one.
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For solar water heaters: Check if the solar collectors are leaking and if they are, turn off the power and water supply to the water heater and drain the system completely. A leaking solar collector cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a new one. Check if the pipes or fittings are leaking and if they are, tighten them or replace them with new ones. Check if the storage tank is leaking and if it is, turn off the power and water supply to the water heater and drain the tank completely. A leaking tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a new one.
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For heat pump water heaters: Check if the condensate drain line is clogged or disconnected and if it is, clear it or reconnect it. Check if the pipes or fittings are leaking and if they are, tighten them or replace them with new ones. Check if the storage tank is leaking and if it is, turn off the power and water supply to the water heater and drain the tank completely. A leaking tank cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a new one.
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For tankless water heaters: Check if the pipes or fittings are leaking and if they are, tighten them or replace them with new ones. Check if the heat exchanger is leaking and if it is, turn off the power and water supply to the water heater. A leaking heat exchanger cannot be repaired and must be replaced with a new one.
Conclusion
Water heaters are essential appliances that provide hot water for various household needs. However, choosing and maintaining a water heater can be challenging, as there are many types, factors and problems to consider. In this blog post, we have discussed the different types of water heaters available in Canada, their pros and cons, their costs, and how to troubleshoot and fix some of the common problems they may encounter. We hope this guide has helped you learn more about water heaters and make an informed decision for your home.
If you need more help or advice on choosing or maintaining your water heater, you can contact us at pluspect.ca. We are a professional home inspection company that offers quality services for all your home improvement needs. Whether you need to inspect, upgrade or replace your water heater, we have the knowledge and skills to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today for a free quote or consultation and get ready to enjoy the benefits of a safe and efficient water heater.