New Advances in Water Heater Technology: What Homeowners Need to Know




As a homeowner, you want your home to be as efficient, convenient, and comfortable as possible. So it’s essential that you stay informed on the latest advancements in home technology.

In recent years, water heater technology has seen significant innovation. From improved energy efficiency to enhanced durability, today’s water heaters offer numerous benefits over older models. In this post, we’ll explore recent advances in water heater technology, specifically focusing on heat pump water heaters, tankless water heaters, connected (aka “smart”) water heaters, and advanced water heater linings.

Heat Pump Water Heaters: Efficiency at its Best

Heat pump water heaters are gaining popularity due to their superior energy efficiency compared to traditional electric water heaters. These systems transfer existing heat from the surrounding air into the water. This method uses up to 60% less electricity than a standard electric water heater.

Key Benefits:

  • Lower Energy Bills: By utilizing ambient heat, these systems significantly reduce electricity consumption, leading to lower utility bills.
  • Environmental Impact: Reduced energy use translates to a smaller carbon footprint, making heat pump water heaters a more eco-friendly choice.
  • Durability: Many models come with longer warranties, reflecting their reliability and long-term performance.

Bradford White’s AeroTherm® Series Heat Pump Water Heater delivers advanced technology, outstanding efficiency, remarkable flexibility with multiple operation modes, and high quality, Built to be the Best® features of Bradford White products.

Tankless Water Heaters: On-Demand Hot Water

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, provide hot water only when needed. Since there’s no need to keep water constantly hot and no heat loss from the tank, tankless water heaters can reduce energy consumption for water heating by 10% to 20%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. These units heat water directly as it flows through the device, ensuring a continuous supply of hot water whenever you need it.

Key Benefits:

  • Endless Hot Water: Tankless systems provide a constant supply of hot water for your household needs.
  • Space Savings: Compact design allows for installation in smaller spaces where traditional tanks might not fit.
  • Energy Efficiency: Since they only operate when hot water is needed, tankless water heaters can be more energy-efficient, particularly in homes with lower hot water demands.

Bradford White’s Infiniti® Series and KwickShot® Series offer you a variety of tankless options for your home.

Innovative Water Heaters: The Future of Home Water Heating

Today’s water heaters are taking a significant leap forward in integrating technology with home appliances. These advanced capabilities offer homeowners increased control and monitoring capabilities through a mobile app, allowing for real-time adjustments and diagnostics.

Key Benefits:

  • Remote Monitoring: Track your water heater’s performance and make adjustments from anywhere using your smartphone.
  • Energy Management: Optimize your water heater’s operation to reduce energy consumption during peak usage times.
  • Leak Detection: Get alerted immediately in the event of a leak. The water heater can even shut off the water supply automatically to minimize damage.
  • Proactive Maintenance: Receive alerts about potential issues before they become major problems, so you can notify your plumbing professional to help extend the lifespan of your water heater and avoid costly repairs.

For example, Bradford White Connect turns an AeroTherm® heat pump water heater into a smart, connected appliance that can easily be controlled through a mobile app.

Advanced Water Heater Linings for Enhanced Hygiene and Durability

Over time, water can corrode a water heater and significantly shorten its lifespan. As the water heater ages, bacteria, mold and mildew can grow which may pose health risks. Advancements in water heater linings now address these issues.

Key Benefits:

  • Improved Hygiene: Helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the tank lining.
  • Extended Lifespan: Reduces the risk of corrosion, which can lead to leaks and premature failure of the water heater.
  • Maintenance Reduction: Fewer issues related to bacterial growth and corrosion mean less frequent maintenance and potential cost savings.

Bradford White’s Vitraglas® is an exclusive, highly specialized enamel tank lining that protects the water heater from the corrosive effects of water. This advanced, proprietary lining has established itself as the industry standard for outstanding protection, and is offered on every Bradford White water heater at no extra cost to you.

Only Vitraglas® includes Microban® antimicrobial technology which helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface of the tank lining. The Microban® antimicrobial technology is infused into the lining. It becomes a permanent part of the coating and will not wash off or wear away for the lifetime of the water heater.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When considering a new water heater, it’s important to evaluate your household’s specific needs and priorities. Factors such as energy efficiency, space availability, and budget will influence your decision. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed choice:

  1. Assess Your Hot Water Needs: Consider the size of your household and your typical hot water usage patterns.
  2. Evaluate Installation Requirements: Some advanced water heaters, like heat pump models, may require specific installation conditions, such as adequate ventilation. Talk to your plumbing professional to ensure your home can accommodate the new system before making a purchase.
  3. Consider Long-Term Savings: While advanced water heaters often come with higher upfront costs, their increased energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time. Factor these long-term savings into your decision-making process. Even better, they are often eligible for utility rebates and tax credits which can help lower their upfront cost.
  4. Consult a Professional: A qualified plumbing professional can help you assess your home’s needs, recommend suitable options, and ensure proper installation for optimal performance. Click here to find a plumbing professional in your area.

Conclusion

The advancements in water heater technology offer homeowners exciting opportunities to improve energy efficiency, enhance convenience, and ensure a safe, reliable hot water supply. Whether you opt for a heat pump water heater, a tankless system, or a connected, “smart” water heater, upgrading to a newer water heater model can provide significant benefits for your home.

Ready to explore the best water heater options for your home? Bradford White’s team can help. They can help guide you through the process, help you find a plumbing professional in your area, and help you select the best water heater for your needs.