Heating and cooling: Hot water heaters

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Save up to 30% on energy costs

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Upgrade to a high efficiency water heater

Heating water accounts for approximately 20% of your home's energy bill.

Water heaters (storage tank)

Water heaters with storage tanks are the most common in Canadian homes, but they are not the most energy-efficient. Electricity, gas or oil is used to heat water stored in the tank and supply it, as needed, to household fixtures and appliances. Storage tanks typically hold between 113 and 378 litres of water in their tanks, and this water is continuously reheated and kept hot 24 hours a day.

What to look for

  • ENERGY STAR® certified models use 14% less energy, on average than other storage tank models.
  • Choose a water heater with the right capacity for your home and family.

Things to consider

  • To improve efficiency, insulate the hot and cold water pipes within 2 to 3 metres of the water heater, and reduce the water temperature on your thermostat. Most water heaters are set to 60° C, consider 48°C instead.

Average cost

$800 to $1,500, plus installation.

Source: Natural Resources Canada

Water heaters (tankless)

Tankless water heaters heat water as it flows, and only when required, using an electric element or gas burner. They provide endless hot water and the heat-on-demand feature means you only pay to heat water as you use it, instead of paying to keep a tank of water heated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

What to look for

  • ENERGY STAR® certified tankless water heaters uses 30% less energy, on average than heaters with storage tanks.
  • Consider models with an efficiency rate of 80% or higher.
  • Buy the right size for your needs. Consult an experienced plumber to estimate the hot water demands in your home.

Things to consider

  • Tankless units are more efficient than heaters with storage tanks, but the cost to purchase and install is higher.
  • Hire a certified HVAC technician to install the unit so that you are eligible for all warranties.
  • Tankless units save space. Wall-mounted units can be hung on almost any wall, including a wall close to the point of use.
  • Have your unit serviced every year or two by a qualified professional. Consult your owner's manual for details.

Average cost

$1,000 to $2,800

Source: Natural Resources Canada

You may also want to consider a solar water heater

Financial help available for water heaters

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