Tank Water Heaters in Winter Haven, FL

What are Tank Water Heaters?

Tank water heaters are powered by electricity or gas and are available in five sizes: 20, 40, 50, 55, and 80 gallons. A
heating element at the bottom of the tank keeps the water hot. As hot water is depleted, cold water enters the tank
and activates the heating element. Once the water tank is full and reaches a preset temperature, the heating element
turns off.
Features of standard tank water heaters include:

  • Pressure and temperature relief valves that prevent overheating and pressure buildup inside the tank.
  • LED light indicating the pilot’s status on gas-powered tank water heaters.
  • Automatic shut off if the tank overheats.

Tank Water Heaters vs. Tankless Water Heaters

Like tank water heaters, tankless water heaters also run on gas. Although smaller and more energy efficient, they are
more expensive than tank water heaters. Since they provide hot water on demand, tankless water heaters do not
need a storage tank to hold gallons of water.
Tankless water heaters usually last longer than tank water heaters because of reduced wear and tear due to heating
water only when hot water faucets are open and running.

Types of Tank Water Heaters

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters
A conventional storage tank water heater is a large, insulated tank that heats and stores water for use when needed.
Advantages:

  • Lower purchase and installation costs compared to other water heaters.
  • Gas tank water heaters provide hot water during power outages.
  • Heats large amounts of water quickly.
  • Compatible with most home types (no major modifications necessary for installation purposes).
  • It can be installed in garages and basements connected to a home’s plumbing system.
  • Easy to repair or replace worn-out parts.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited supply of hot water during high-demand times.
  • The area must be able to accommodate a large tank.
  • The average lifespan of eight to 12 years.
  • Tank interiors will likely develop sediment and rust buildup (requires regular flushing to avoid premature
    corrosion).
  • Gas-powered hot water tanks need adequate ventilation, which may increase installation costs.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters, also known as hybrid water heaters, heat water by extracting heat from the air outside the
tank and transferring it to the water inside. This air-source heat exchange process uses less electricity than electric
tank water heaters, making them a cost-effective, energy-efficient option for Florida residents.
A fan pulls in surrounding air across an evaporator containing refrigerant-filled tubes. This evaporator and its
corresponding tubes absorb heat energy as warm air passes over them. The heated refrigerant is pumped through a
compressor before passing through a coil wrapped around the tank that transfers heat to the water inside the tank.
The year-round warmer temperatures make operating efficiently easier for these water heaters. Relying on electricity
to move heat further contributes to significant savings on energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s