What Size of Water Heater Tank Do I Need?

If it’s time to get a new water heater, you’ll need to determine the right size for your home. It’s common for a homeowner’s current water heater to not meet their family’s needs. Finding the perfect fit is easiest with our team at Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning. With over 50 years of experience in the industry, we have what it takes to help improve the comfort of your home. Here’s what you should know about sizing a water heater for your house. 

Determine if Your Current Heater is Undersized

If a heater is too small, you won’t get enough hot water. Conversely, the water might be far too hot, causing condensation and pilot flame issues when water drips off of the tank. If there’s significant condensation, rust chips, lukewarm water or premature tank failure, you likely have a heater that’s undersized. Other factors include the total BTU input, recovery rate, amperage and much more. After all, the water heater must provide the right kilowatts to heat the water, or else it can cause issues leading to early deterioration. 

Considering the possible issues, you’ll want a water heater that’s perfectly sized for your home. A water heater that’s the right size will need less power to run, which helps to avoid straining the internal components. As a result, the unit will last for longer, so making the right initial investment makes all the difference.  

Consider the Size of Your Household

Water heaters are sized according to how much hot water is consumed, which tends to increase if your household is more populated. Larger families will go through more cycles. Every household has unique needs, but in general, you can follow a few basic guidelines. A house with one or two people typically needs around 40 gallons, while those with three to four family members should have around 60 gallons. Of course, individual needs vary, so keep in mind the number of bathrooms and other appliances. 

Calculate Your Peak Hour Demand

General guidelines are helpful, but ultimately you’ll also want to determine your family’s specific hot-water usage. Consider how much water you go through during your busiest hour of using hot water. For most families, that’s in the morning or evenings, when individuals are taking showers or doing dishes after dinner. Next, you’ll need to estimate how much water is used during that hour-long period. 

Think About Water Heater Storage Capacity and Heat Input

Two very important components of a water heater include the tank’s storage capacity and heat input. Choosing the right appliance is essential, particularly for households that use lots of water within a short amount of time. Conversely, if you use hot water for longer durations, you’ll need a water heater that has a suitable recovery rate. Compare the amount of water used to duration, and talk to our team. We can help you select the right product based on your needs. 

Call Us Today for Water Heater Installation

There’s so much to consider when installing a water heater, so contact Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning for professional assistance.