Best Gas Water Heater

Gas water heaters are one of the most convenient and energy saving appliances. This article is aimed at helping you to choose the best gas water heater from all the available options.
Best Gas Water Heater
If you are a hot water lover like me, when it comes to having a bath, then this article will help you in choosing the best gas water heater for you by reviewing all the available ones on the market. Nothing can be comparable to a hot water shower or a hot water bath tub, after a hard day's work!

Rising fuel costs are dictating people's decisions now. Traditionally, electric heaters and coils were used to heat water. Not only do electric heaters consume a lot of power, they also have low efficiency. All thanks to the invention of gas water heaters. They are very energy efficient devices. If you don't believe me, just replace your electric heater with the best gas water heater, which I recommend. The electricity bill will show you the difference.

How to Choose the Best Gas Water Heater?

There are certain things you need to look out for, which will separate the best gas water heater from average ones. It also won't hurt you if you know how to install a gas water heater, in case you have to do it yourself. However, gas water heater problems are best left for professionals to solve, as there is a much complicated machinery involved.

Here is a list of things you must check out before you buy.
  • Gas Source: Decide what kind of gas source you want for your heater. There are two options, either natural gas or butane. The natural gas based one is better, as it burns completely causing very less pollution.
  • Gas Capacity and Flow Rate: Choose what amount of gas capacity you want depending on the hot water usage. Also check for flow rate. Higher the flow rate, the better it is. Look for an optimized combination of the two.
  • Safety Features: This is the most important thing to look out for. The water heater must have adequate safety features which give indicators of leakage and prevent accidents. Look for safety certification.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for a high R-rating, which indicates high energy efficiency. The best gas water heater will be marked by a high energy efficiency.
Best Gas Water Heater Reviews

Here are reviews of some of the best gas water heaters available in the market for your perusal.

Whirlpool 40g Gas Water Heater
Pros: With top rating on most counts, this one is a very popular choice. This gas water heater has a very high first hour rating. Its R-value of 9 indicates a high energy efficiency. It is a self cleaning device with a peizo electric igniter.

Cons: There are reported problems with the thermostat of the device.

Price: $335

Kenmore33159 HydroSense
Pros: This one is from the higher price range, but is top rated for its energy efficiency. What makes it stand out is the 2 inch thick layer of insulation! Tank warranty is for 12 years and it is a self cleaning system.

Cons: Problems related to its electronic controls have been reported in some cases.

Price: $600

Bradford White 40-Gallon
Pros: It has a 6 year warranty and fully automatic controls. Its unique feature is the 'ScreenLok Flame Arrestor'. It also has a resettable thermal switch. This gas water heater is mostly maintenance free and has a piezo igniter.

Cons: Repair service is usually delayed.

Price: $398

Kenmore Power Miser Tank
Pros: It has a capacity of 71 gallons, which is more than sufficient for a family of four. It has a limited warranty of 9 years.

Cons: Ranks low on the first hour rating!

Price: $330

These are the best gas water heater choices for you in the market. Choose the one, which best suits your needs and saves you money through high energy efficiency. Do not compromise on quality and opt for a low priced gas heater. Look at the first hour rating, R-value and other details. Last but not the least, check out safety features of the device. The best gas water heater is one which gives you an optimum output at a reasonable price.

By Omkar Phatak
Published: 9/4/2009
 
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