New Guidelines for Water Heaters

On April 16, 2015 there will be significant changes to water heater energy factor requirements. The Department of Energy has increased its minimum energy efficiency standards for new water heaters which will affect virtually all residential gas, electric, oil and tankless gas water heaters.

Product manufacturing changes will vary, with more radical changes occurring in larger volume units. Homeowners may have to deal with increased costs based on how the new requirements will affect the design of water heaters. In some cases, the water heater will have to be re-located to operate properly or mitigate noise. While the operating cost of the new water heaters will be less because of their increased energy efficiency, it is likely that product, installation and maintenance costs will increase because of more complex designs and the integration of electronics, blowers, fans, condensers, etc.

If you are considering replacing your current water heater and don’t want to incur the extra expense that will likely come with these new regulations, Haldeman Mechanical can replace your unit now. Larger capacity models (over 55 gallons) will be especially problematic with the new regulations. For more information and to get a free quote on a new unit, please give us a call today at 717-665-6910.