If you’re looking to install a new water heater, the importance of picking the right water heater size for your home cannot be overstated. The right water heater means you won’t run out of hot water and you’ll keep your heating costs low. Knowing how every type of water heater works and the advantages it offers can simplify the decision-making process. A local plumbing repair service can guide you through the selection and help you install the appliance. High Speed Plumbing has prepared this guide to help you select the right water heater size for your home.
- Consider Your Household Size and Habits
A good place to start is to consider your household size and hot water usage habits. A family of four will naturally need more hot water than a couple living alone. Think about your routine: Do you run multiple appliances at once? Do family members take long showers or baths? As a general rule of thumb, here's how tank sizes match up with household sizes:
- 1–2 people: 30–40 gallons
- 3–4 people: 40–50 gallons
- 5+ people: 50–80 gallons
These are starting points when it comes to selecting a water heater. Keep in mind that lifestyle, peak usage times, and specific appliance needs can shift those numbers. This is why we recommend you consult with professional plumbers specializing in water heater installation and repair.
- Understand First Hour Rating
The second consideration is the First Hour Rating. This number tells you how many gallons of hot water the unit can supply in an hour when starting with a full tank. The FHR should match your family’s peak usage—for example, during morning showers and breakfast cleanup. You can estimate your peak hour demand using online calculators or with the help of a plumber, who’ll account for all fixtures and appliances.
- Sizing a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are sized differently. Instead of storage capacity, you’ll look at flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). You’ll need to total the GPM requirements of appliances and fixtures that may be used at the same time. For instance, a shower may require 2.5 GPM, a dishwasher 1.5 GPM, and a washing machine another 2 GPM. A tankless unit for a household with simultaneous usage of these appliances would need to handle at least 6 GPM. Also, consider temperature rise—the difference between incoming cold water and your desired hot water temperature. In colder climates, the unit will work harder and may require a higher capacity.
- Consult With a Professional Plumbing Repair Service
Just like with other appliances in a home, sizing a water heater isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Factors like water pressure, pipe length, insulation, and energy efficiency ratings should also be considered. It’s a good idea to work with a professional plumber who will ensure all these elements are factored in. A proper assessment can help you avoid issues like insufficient hot water, increased energy bills, or premature system failure.
High Speed Plumbing Is Here To Help You with All Your Water Heater Service Needs
Looking for professional plumbers providing water heater installation services in Azusa, CA? Look no further than High Speed Plumbing. From traditional storage water heaters to tankless units and hybrid water heaters, we install them all. Our team of plumbers is highly skilled, experienced, and well-equipped to handle all kinds of water heater installations in homes and commercial properties. We also pride ourselves on providing water heater repair and maintenance services. Contact us today to book an appointment and learn more about our services.
