* There are mainly three kinds of water heating devices, namely storage water heater, tankless water heaters and solar water heater.

* Most homes use storage water heaters, which use either electricity or gas to heat water. They are more economical to purchase and install. They typically provide 40 to 50 gallons of hot water, are easy to use and generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

* Tankless water heaters provide unlimited supply of hot water and are energy efficient. They do not store hot water, but produce it on demand. They also come in compact designs and sizes ,so they can be easily fitted near fixtures that use most hot water. Some tankless water heaters can also be installed outdoors, leading to more space indoors. They usually have a lifespan of 20 years. Apart from this, in a few countries and states, there are energy tax credits or incentives available for purchasing energy efficient products.

* Going green is the latest trend and for those who wish to reduce their carbon footprint, solar water heater is the perfect choice. Based on which region you live in, solar heaters can produce more than half of your hot water requirements. The solar panels are attached to the roof and work along with the storage tank. Purchasing a solar water-heating unit is quite an investment, but it is negated by the huge tax credits, incentives, and local rebates that could be availed. Moreover, solar heaters may last much longer than other water heaters.



Tip

* Always read the product manual before working on operating a new water heater.