If your water heater is getting old and it is time for an upgrade you should do your shopping and research before there is an urgent or immediate need. If you are able to plan ahead you will be better able to make a wise, energy efficient and economically practical decision. An introduction to water heaters will be the first step in determining which type of water heater will meet your needs. Conventional tank water heater Conventional water heaters are the most common type of water heaters. They come in a variety of sizes up to about 80 gallon tanks. The water in the tank is kept at a consistent temperature by way of a thermostat that allows the heat source to switch on when the water temperature drops. When the water in the tank returns to the preset temperature the heat source turns off. Heat is lost through the walls of the water tank on a regular basis causing the heat source to come on throughout the day even when there is no actual hot water demand. Insulating blankets are often used to reduce the heat loss and save energy and money. When buying a conventional hot water heater you should look for the thermal resistance value of R-12 to R-25. These higher values will boost the energy efficiency of your hot water tank. Heat pump water heater Typical heat pump water heaters work on the same principle as your refrigerator only in reverse. They are effective in climates where the temperature range of 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They are energy efficient but limited for the most part to more moderate climates. Geothermal heat pumps work by drawing heat from the ground. The heat from the compressor is used to heat water. However you will still need a backup way to heat water in the colder months. The benefit of energy savings and operating cost is often offset by a higher installation cost and purchase price. Solar water heater Solar water heaters come in a variety of configurations and the climate in which you live will determine the kind that you choose. If you live in an area with severe cold you will likely be using a heat-transfer fluid in your solar collector as opposed to water. Solar water heaters can be used to pre-heat water before passing it on to a conventional water tank thereby reducing the amount of energy it takes to heat the water to the desirable temperature. In warmer climates a direct circulation into the home is possible. A backup water system is usually included in the solar hot water system. Demand tankless water heater Demand water Category:Home › Other • Pomegranates: A newly discovered superfood • Where did the joke why did the chicken cross the road come from and why is it funny? • Can mothers diagnosed with bipolar disorder make good parents? • Spiritual evolution of human consciousness • Tips for getting a college basketball scholarship • Living with Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) • Caring for the caregiver • Technologys impact on society