If you’re not experienced with the operating principles of water heaters, it may be difficult for you to choose the system that’s right for your home. Many homes rely on large storage tank water heaters to provide hot water to the home. However, other homeowners praise the efficiency of tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand instead. Yet another option that can save you even more is the addition of a geothermal heat pump. So how do these systems work? Which one is better for my home? To help you answer these questions, we’ve laid out each system here.

Types of Water Heaters Available in Cary, NC

Storage Tank Water Heater: These units keep water heated in a large tank so that it is always available for use. Water is heated at the bottom of the tank via a gas burner or electric heating element. As hot water rises to the top of the tank, a small tube carries it into your pipes, and the tank refills. While this is perhaps the most common system, it is often critiqued as water may not be heated quickly enough to meet a home’s needs.
Tankless Water Heater: Tankless heaters do not need to store water because it is heated instantaneously, saving on gas or energy bills. When a hot water tap is turned on, a censor signals the system to activate and an electric heating element or propane gas allows for heat exchange to take place immediately.
Geothermal Water Heater: A geothermal heat pump may be installed with your existing tank or tankless water heater. Geothermal heat pumps, which can be installed in the ground near your home to provide efficient heating and air conditioning, may also be connected to your water heater with the help of a desuperheater. This device allows your water heater to pull in hot gases from the compressor to heat the water.

Which System is Right for Me?

So which unit is right for your home? Of course, your specific needs should be taken into account. The initial cost is a big factor for many homeowners, and a storage tank heater may be the least expensive unit. However, operating cost should also be taken into account, and running a tankless geothermal system can eventually offset the price. Another consideration may be saving space, for which a tankless heater may be the best option. When you need a water heater in Cary, NC , you should talk to an expert at Ideal Services Heating & Cooling, who can help you find the right system for your home. Give us a call today !