In the past decade, there has been a steady increase in fuel used for domestic water heating as homes are now better insulated than they once were. When you know the options available to you, it will be easier to choose the right water heater type for your home.
Take a look at the most common water heater types in Seattle at the moment:
Tankless
What sets this type apart is that it has no tank for storage. Essentially, it only heats water upon turning the shower or faucet on. While it is more common in Europe, it is gaining traction in the United States as well. You can get this product in electric and gas models, but the latter is more popular for use in whole-house applications. Many models now come with electric ignition. Expect to pay more for tankless models and ensure that you have the right size if you want your unit to function properly.
Tank Type
The Pacific Northwest market is ruled by this type of water heater, which can be either electric or gas-powered. It works by heating the water before it is needed and then storing it for future use. You can get it in various sizes, ranging between 6 gallons and 12 gallons. If you calculate the cost per gallon, the most practical choice is the 50-gallon size. This can typically be installed at the same price as something with a capacity of 40 gallons.
New models of gas water heaters come with more options and better designs, which is something to consider if you want to use the water heater in basements, garages, and workshops.
Indirect
This relies on a boiler to heat the water in the tank. A heat exchanger in the indirect tank circulates the hot water and heats the domestic water. This type has better longevity than normal storage heaters since the heat source does not lie below or inside the tank. It can have an efficiency of as much as 99 percent. It also produces way more hot water than a traditional water heater.
Heat Pump
While not particularly popular in Seattle, this is suitable for use when gas is unavailable since this type uses less electricity for water heating. It gets rid of the heat from the surrounding air and then adds it to the water. It is capable of cooling and dehumidifying the room where the heat pump is!
Combination
Lastly, this type combines domestic water heating and space heating. It is ultimately less costly than separate devices and can save you space in the house. Consider this option when you are on a budget and have limited space at home.