Which Water Heater Has the Fastest Recovery Rate?
Here in the Chattanooga, Tennessee, area, when we shower, we want hot water—the faster, the better. For homes where the hot water is slow to reach the desired faucet or parts of the home, like the bath, shower, or washing machine, it may be time to upgrade to a high-recovery water heater.
Most people aren’t familiar with high-recovery water heaters, so they likely have questions and concerns about upgrading. Here, we’ll address those concerns and answer questions so you can better understand what a high-recovery water heater can do and why you should upgrade to one.
What is a high-recovery water heater?
Water heater manufacturers offer several types of water heaters. First, they have electric-powered or gas-powered, standard tank-style water heaters, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters. Standard water heaters recover 40 gallons per hour, while high-recovery water heaters recover 55 gallons per hour.
What makes a water heater a “high-recovery” water heater?
High-recovery water heaters are ideal for households with large families, though they may be overkill for a single-person home or a small family. A household with six or more occupants is an ideal home for an upgrade to a high-recovery water heater.
For example, an electric-powered 80-gallon water heater set at 62 degrees takes over 100 minutes for the water to heat up in the tank. However, a gas-powered unit of the same size at the same temperature setting will have a higher recovery rate with water heated within 70 minutes or less.
Why is the gas-powered water faster? They use burners to heat the water instead of elements, so it reaches a higher temperature faster. Some other key factors that can lead to a higher recovery rate include:
- Tank size: The larger the tank on a water heater, the longer it takes to recover the hot water. The recovery time is longer as the water level in the tank gets lower.
- First hour: A water heater tank constantly replenishes the water supply, and recovery counts within that first hour. The larger the tank and the power type will determine the high-recovery water heater rating.
- Fuel type: As described above, an electric-powered water heater takes twice as long to recover hot water as a gas-powered water heater. The downside to a gas-powered water heater is the initial installation expense and the purchase of the water heater. So, is a high-recovery water heater worth that extra expense? That is a personal decision based on your budget and the number of occupants in your home.
What are the disadvantages of high-recovery water heaters?
Yes, high-recovery water heaters have disadvantages, such as expense. The gas-powered option is more expensive than the electric-powered one. Additionally, because the smaller tank gives you a higher recovery rate, you’ll need more frequent professional maintenance, such as flushing the tank.
But, for a home with a high occupancy level or need for hot water, a high-recovery water heater will outweigh those disadvantages. It will save you money in the long run because you won’t need to run the water longer to get hot water, and that will save you time, too.
What is the life expectancy of a high-recovery water heater?
A high-recovery water heater that is professionally installed and properly maintained after installation can last ten for up to ten years. Depending on your water quality, it may last up to 12 years.
What is the best water heater option?
The water heater is the unsung hero in every home. It is always there and reliably ready to provide hot water, even with today’s appliances and technologies.
So, when it’s time for a water heater replacement, it can be overwhelming with the many different options on the market. Before you choose one, review these basics to help you find the best choice for your family:
- Fuel Source: Confirm your current power source before shopping for a standard or high-recovery water heater.
- Tank Size: Water heaters come in various sizes. The number of occupants in your home should be the determining factor in choosing the best size. Remember – the smaller the tank, the faster the recovery.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is essential for your utility bills. Choosing a high-recovery water heater will likely give you the best energy efficiency, but research others to get the best for your budget.
- The Cost: Whether you choose a standard or a high-recovery water heater, affordability will be a significant factor in your decision. Shop around at different places and consider the factors we have listed here.
Watering It All Down
When making a final decision, remember that while you may choose a higher-priced water heater, energy savings, and a high recovery rate can significantly affect what a water heater can do for your home. If you’re shopping for a high-recovery water heater in Chattanooga, TN or nearby cities, we invite you to contact us to learn more about your options. Call us at 423-718-7342 and speak to our professionals about what’s available today.
