# Size A Water Heater For Your Home

> If your hot water heater is getting on in years, it's best to determine the type of replacement you will need before it fails. Conventional storage systems are available today with features that incre...

If your hot water heater is getting on in years, it's best to determine the type of replacement you will need before it fails. Conventional storage systems are available today with features that increase efficiency. Tankless systems produce hot water on demand, making them a highly efficient system of choice. Getting the right size system for your household will balance needs and costs.

**Equipment Type**

- **Storage Water Heater:** This type of water heater is sized via its First Hour Rating (FHR). This is simply an estimation of the peak demand for heated water when a family uses it most. The [Energy Star website](http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12990) has a chart for storage needs that you can use for estimating your FHR needs.

- **Tankless Water Heaters:** Tankless heaters only heat water as it is used, or on demand. If choosing tankless, you will need to assess the flow rate, or GPM (Gallons Per Minute), that needs to be supplied at peak times. When using simultaneous access, such as a shower, clothes washer and dishwasher, the GPM needed will have to be determined to adequately produce sufficient heated water. You can find information on sizing a tankless water heater on [Energy Star's site](http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12830).

With the storage, or tanked heater, peak usage, capacity size (gallons) and heating type (gas or electric) must also be configured. For tankless, the difference between the incoming water temperature and desired outgoing hot water temperature, called temperature rise, should also be included in the determination for proper sizing.

**Other Factors to Consider**

- **Fuel Type**: Determine the most energy-efficient fuel for your home. If you have been using electricity, you may find that propane or natural gas is less expensive. Fuel availability and competition in your area should also be considered.
- **Installation**. Changing from one type of unit to another may be worth higher installation costs if energy savings will significantly impact future energy bills.

Getting the right size water heater keeps your costs low, while meeting all of your hot water demands. If you need help sizing your equipment, contact our [expert plumbers at Rodenhiser](http://www.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). When you have plumbing questions, we're always ready to help.

***Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about* *sizing a new water heater **and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).*****

***Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning* *serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts.* *[Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today](http://rodenhiser.com/)!***

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## About Rodenhiser Home Services

**Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services.

Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more.

The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions.

Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service.

**Nice People…Great Service**

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