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What Is an Electric Water Heater? A Simple Guide for Homeowners

electric water heater

Sumit Patel |

An electric water heater is good for supplying hot water in homes. Daily showers, kitchen, and laundry is supported by an electric water heater, which provides hot water for all of these essential activities. Homeowners prefer them because electric water heaters come in different sizes, and fit all types of homes while performing consistently.

This guide provides an explanation of how an electric water heater functions, the different types available, and what homeowners need to account for before purchasing them.

Introduction to Electric Water Heaters

Particular electric water heaters work on using electrical energy to heat water. These are used by homes, apartments and townhomes. An electric hot water heater is put in utility spaces, basements, garages, or other types of utility spaces.

When it comes to water heaters, electric ones are highly customizable. They can come in different designs and sizes, which also helps them fit in with customers daily hot water consumption requirements.

How an Electric Water Heater Works

Electric water heaters heat water using one or multiple heating elements located inside an insulated tank. Cold water enters the unit through an inlet pipe, where it heats to a set temperature. The water stays in the tank until it's needed at a faucet or some other place. When you use hot water, the tank immediately fills up with cold water, and the heater heats it up again.

Key Components Inside an Electric Water Heater

  • Elements that heat the water with electricity.
  • A thermostat that regulates water temperature.
  • An insulated storage tank that helps retain heat.

Because they are so simple on the inside, electric hot water heaters are great for everyday use in homes.

Types of Electric Water Heaters Available

There are a few different types of electric water heaters available, each designed for different household sizes and usage patterns.

Storage Tank Electric Water Heaters

These are the most traditional types of water heaters. They heat water in advance and store it. In small to medium-sized households, a common choice is the 40 gallon electric water heater, whereas the 80 gallon electric water heater is the preferred option for larger families or homes with more than one bathroom.

Common Tank Sizes

If a home has daily moderate water usage, a 40-gallon electric water heater should be sufficient. This appliance works best for homes where there isn’t an excessive reliance on water usage. However, for homes where there is daily simultaneous water usage, an 80-gallon electric water heater would be best.

Tankless Electric Water Heaters

The best electric tankless water heater heats water on a needs basis. Instead of saving water in a tank, these water heaters allow for hot water access on demand. This feature makes them best suited for homeowners who prefer a more compact system, and want hot water without storage limitations.

Compact and Small Electric Water Heaters

Some locations where the home will be using a water heater may not require a full-size tank. Some small electric water heater  are made for these types of locations, using water heaters in an office, small guest bathrooms, or other areas. A small electric water heater helps prioritize hot water access in areas where full tank systems would be a limitation.

Choosing the Right Electric Water Heater Capacity

Choosing the size of the electric water heater is a critical step in the process. This is because the size of the unit determines the amount of hot water at times when demand is highest.

Capacity Selection Guidelines

  • A 40 gallon electric water heater is great for smaller households.
  • An 80 gallon electric water heater will be sufficient for larger families.
  • Small electric water heaters are great for point-of-use applications.

Knowing the usage habits of any given household will help ensure the electric water heater will assist in daily demands.

Benefits of Using an Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters have a lot of benefits for those looking for a reliable plan for hot water.

  • Consistent heating of the water
  • Tons of layouts and configurations
  • All different types of layouts

For those looking for a space saving solution, the best electric tankless water heater can be a great system.

Modern home solutions and well-informed product choices help with comfort and efficiency. That's why tools like Choices for Better Living at Home are useful for homeowners who want to make their daily lives better.

Final Considerations for Homeowners

Electric water heaters come in a plethora of variations, from a compact small electric water heater to a large 80 gallon electric water heater.

Homeowners can do a bit of research about the electric hot water heater in order to choose a model that best suits their needs.