My spouse and I are building a new home. The standard hot water heater size is 50 gallons (gas). The builder gives the option to upgrade to a 75 gal for $450. I know that a HWH is a pretty permanent thing. The house is going to be about 2500 sq ft and for now it is just the two of us. (No kids yet). We both love long showers, and will probably have guests often. It is only a 4 br house, though, so we're not talking about hosting an army. Is it worth it to upgrade to the bigger hot water heater, and why or why not?
2006-06-27 12:21:26 · 5 answers · asked by e.estlinz 3 in Home & Garden ➔ Other - Home & Garden
I just bought an 80 gallon for $375. A Whirlpool warrantied for seven years.
If he wants $450 to upgrade something is wrong.
Stop by Lowe's or Home Depot & check prices.
Also, I really think a 50 gallon would work for you. I got an 80 because we have a huge whirlpool. Also, a gas water heater has a rapid recovery.
2006-06-27 15:16:19 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Other then the additional cost you will have a high engery bill ....takes more to heat more...But if you are going to upgrade I would also have your Supply lines covered with insulation for pipes....helps keep water hot....I figure you have 2 1/2 baths and the normal fixture but if as you say you like the Long showers then your supply of Hot water would last longer....One other thing ...there isn't such a thing as a Hot Water Heater....why would you need to heat hot water...hmmmmm LOL.....
2006-06-27 12:30:41 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you buy a conventional hot water tank you will never actually use more than 50% of the gas you put into it to heat up the water; more of it will just go up the flue. I suggest looking into more energy efficient options. Also, you say a WH is a pretty permanent thing, I say that if you get ten years out of a conventional WH; you are doing pretty good.
2006-06-27 15:58:28 · answer #3 · answered by lx 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
for $450.00 more go with the instant hot water heater. cost, about $750.00. gas unit, u'll have hot water and never run out. i have one and have installed abut 10 in house i built this year. all Love them. i have 3 teens and wife and me, can take 2 baths at once, wash clothes and dishwasher all at once and never run out or cool off. PLUS.......saves money, lol. only runs when u turn on the hot water valve.
lic. gen. contractor
2006-06-27 12:35:40 · answer #4 · answered by bigg_dogg44 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should invest in one of those solar powered water heaters, and not have to pay a penny for fuel, this should be an option at least if not mandatory in newly constructed homes. they only cost 150 in china, several hundred in europe, probably not much more here if you can get them.
2006-06-27 12:29:23 · answer #5 · answered by thale138 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋