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10 Best Gas Water Heaters 2025 in the United States
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Buying Guide for the Best Gas Water Heaters
Choosing the right gas water heater for your home is essential to ensure you have a reliable and efficient supply of hot water. There are several key specifications to consider when selecting a gas water heater, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision that best fits your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of water the heater can store and heat at one time, usually measured in gallons. This is important because it determines how much hot water is available for use at any given moment. For smaller households (1-2 people), a 30-40 gallon tank may be sufficient. Medium-sized households (3-4 people) might need a 40-50 gallon tank, while larger households (5 or more people) may require a 50+ gallon tank. Consider your household size and hot water usage patterns when choosing the capacity.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how effectively the water heater converts gas into hot water, often represented by the Energy Factor (EF) rating. A higher EF rating means better efficiency and lower energy costs. Standard models typically have an EF rating around 0.6-0.7, while high-efficiency models can have ratings of 0.8 or higher. If you are looking to save on energy bills and reduce your environmental impact, opt for a model with a higher EF rating.
Recovery RateThe recovery rate measures how quickly the water heater can heat a new batch of water after the initial supply has been depleted, usually in gallons per hour (GPH). This is crucial for households with high hot water demand. A higher recovery rate means the heater can provide more hot water in a shorter period. For homes with frequent hot water usage, such as multiple showers or laundry loads, a higher recovery rate (50-60 GPH) is beneficial. For less frequent use, a lower recovery rate (30-40 GPH) may suffice.
Venting TypeGas water heaters require proper venting to expel combustion gases safely. There are two main types: atmospheric venting and power venting. Atmospheric venting uses the natural rise of hot air to expel gases through a vertical vent, while power venting uses a fan to push gases out through a horizontal or vertical vent. Atmospheric venting is simpler and less expensive but requires a vertical vent path. Power venting offers more installation flexibility and is suitable for homes without a vertical vent path. Choose based on your home's venting setup and installation preferences.
First Hour Rating (FHR)The First Hour Rating (FHR) indicates the amount of hot water the heater can supply in the first hour of use, combining the tank capacity and recovery rate. This is important for understanding the heater's performance during peak usage times. For example, if your household uses a lot of hot water in the morning, a higher FHR (70-100 gallons) ensures you won't run out. For moderate usage, an FHR of 50-70 gallons may be adequate. Assess your peak hot water needs to determine the appropriate FHR.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the water heater and the installation requirements are important to ensure it fits in the designated space and can be installed properly. Measure the space where you plan to install the heater and compare it with the dimensions of the models you are considering. Additionally, consider the installation complexity and whether you need professional help. Compact models are ideal for smaller spaces, while larger models may require more room and professional installation.