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Community and Q&A

Water Heater selection help – Gas or Electric, Tank, Hybrid, Tankless?

[email protected] | Posted in Mechanicals on

I am in the process of needing to update my hot water tank (Currently a 40 Gallon gas water heater). I live in Michigan and have been trying to figure out what makes the most sense (Environmentally and economically). I am considering adding solar panels to my roof next year, so I was thinking of changing to electric but I have not found much information about electric tankless systems being used in Michigan other than I would need a large unit to provide for the entire house. I have 3 full sized bathrooms, a dishwasher a kitchen sink, laundry room sink and a wet bar sink. I have aerators and low flow shower heads. My plumber and electrician will install whatever I’d like, but are not helpful in providing sensible options.

Any guidance is greatly appreciated.

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Replies

  1. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #1

    Roger,
    There is no simple answer to this question. I suggest you read the following article, which includes a "decision tree" to help you through the water heater thicket:

    The Water Heater Payoff

    Another article that you might want to read on this issue is All About Water Heaters.

  2. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #2

    Roger,
    Here is the decision tree. Click on the image to enlarge it.

    .

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