Buying Guides

SELECT THE RIGHT WATER HEATER

Feel confident you're choosing the right hot water heater for your home. Understand the different types of water heaters and the features you should look for.

ELECTRIC OR GAS

Compare the advantages and features of these model types.

Electric Standard Features 1. Temperature & pressure relief valve 2. Energy saving heat traps 3. Corrosion resistant tank lining 4. Energy efficient foam insulation 5. EverKleen™ self-cleaning system Fights sediment build-up Reduces energy costs Extends the life of the tank

Gas Standard Features 1. Temperature & pressure relief valve 2. Porcelain enamel tank lining 3. Rigid foam insulation 4. EverKleen™ self-cleaning system Fights sediment build-up Reduces energy costs Extends the life of the tank Additional Features Automatically shuts down the water heater if flammable vapors are detected Maintenance-free protection No filters to clean Standard replacement parts Available on most models

STORAGE TANK OR TANKLESS

Compare the advantages and features of these model types.

	Storage Tank Constantly stores heated water	Economical Good for steady, high-use demands Capacity ranges from 20 to 60 gallons Efficiency varies between models, brands and fuel sources
	Tankless Heats cold water with a gas burner or electric element as it passes through the water heater LEARN MORE	Larger up-front investment Excellent option for residences occupied part-time Hangs on wall and frees up floor space Provides continuous hot water Reduces energy consumption by as much as 30% Gas heaters may require venting Can be one large unit (whole house) or individual units where hot water is used (point of use)

CAPACITY

It's important to select a hot water heater that provides enough hot water for your home. An undersized water heater will work harder and have a shorter lifespan.

Storage Tank

Determine the proper capacity for your household based on the number of bathrooms and bedrooms in your home. If you choose to purchase a unit with a tank, consult the table below for help in determining storage capacity.

Tankless

DIMENSIONS

Once you know the capacity for your water heater, remember to take the unit's dimensions into consideration.

• The unit should have ½" clearance on the sides, 12" on the front and 18" off the floor.
• For closets and close quarters: A new conventional storage replacement unit may be larger than the old one because more insulation is required to meet the latest strict federal energy standards.
• When upgrading to a larger unit: You may need to have plumbing run to it if it has to be relocated. One way to avoid relocating the unit is to select a model in a non-standard size, such as a unit that is shorter but larger around, known as a "low boy" hot water heater.
• When purchasing a tankless water heater: Ensure the location you choose for installation meets the unit's ventilation requirements. Does it require an exterior wall near a gas supply line, water supply line and/or an electrical power source? Placing your tankless heater near the correct supply lines and power sources can be the easiest and most cost-effective way to run the venting.

SPECIALTY MODELS

These models are available in-store, online, or by special order.

Power Vent Induced draft uses PVC venting Designed for installation flexibility, vent runs up to 100 ft	Direct Vent Uses outside air for combustion requiring no electrical power Adjustable vent allows for installation flexibility	Conventional Vent One of a kind air shut off device Maintenance free, no filter to clean	Point Of Use Features a space saving design for installation in locations with limited space

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

In addition to manufacturer warranties, The Home Depot offers additional options to suit your maintenance needs.

GE Standard Manufacturer's Warranty Includes:
12 year tank and functional parts Plus... 1 year in-home warranty Self-cleaning system maintains peak efficiency Gas models feature highest recovery rates Electric models feature stainless steel upper heating element	9 year tank and functional parts Plus... 1 year in-home warranty Self-cleaning system maintains peak efficiency	6 year tank and functional parts Plus... 1 year in-home warranty

The extended warranty plan options offered by The Home Depot can take over once the manufacturer's warranty has expired.

LEARN MORE

Energy efficiency

Whichever fuel source you use, a water heater can be the third largest energy user in your home, so select the system that ensures your needs are met without wasting energy.

Quick Tips

• Know the measurements of the area where the unit will go to be sure it will fit in that space
• You may need a venting kit if you're going to install a gas unit
• Setting your hot water heater to 60°C/140°F is usually hot enough for most needs
• Flush your water heater at least once per year to remove sediment

Additional Features to Consider

Self Cleaning

• Automatically fights lime and sediment buildup
• Lengthens tank life
• Extends peak efficiency

Recovery Speed

• Important if you use a lot of hot water
• The quicker the recovery speed, the less time it takes to heat a full tank of water

Automatic Shutoff Valve

• For fire-prevention measures
• Shuts off the flow of gas if there's movement in the ground or the gas flow experiences a sudden, sizeable increase