Did You Know Water Heater Efficiency Standards Were Changing?

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If you’re planning to replace your water heater this year, you should be aware of new water heater  efficiency standards going into effect April 16, 2015. Designed to improve the efficiency factor (EF) of water heaters and mandated by the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act, the standards will mean a costlier price tag and higher installation costs for residential electric, gas and oil water heaters manufactured after this date. However, it’s expected that over the course of the water heater’s lifetime, homeowners will more than make up for these costs through increased energy efficiency.

Water Heaters Under 55 Gallons

The new, more efficient water heaters will have more insulation, and this means most will be bigger. For instance most water heaters under 55-gallon capacity will be at least 2 inches taller and 2 inches wider in diameter than models manufactured before 2015. This could mean the water heater will have to be relocated to a larger space to accommodate the larger size. Otherwise, a water heater of a smaller size must be chosen to fit the space.

Water Heaters Over 55 Gallons

Water heaters over 55 gallons in capacity will require the biggest changes. Residential electric models of more than 55-gallon capacity will now be of hybrid electric heat pump water heater design. Residential gas models bigger than 55 gallons will have to be condensing water heater types after the deadline. If a homeowner wants an electric water heater bigger than 55 gallons in capacity, a hybrid heat pump type must be chosen, or else two conventional electric water heaters with less than 55-gallon capacity could be installed.

Water heaters manufactured prior to the above date will be sold by dealers until the inventory is depleted. If you prefer one of these less efficient, older water heaters, now’s the time to buy one before they are all gone,

Learn more about the new water heater efficiency standards from the pros at Carefree Comfort, Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning, or give us a call to schedule an appointment!

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