Purchasing a water heating system can be difficult, particularly as you have a wide range of factors to take into consideration. Generally, most people choose a gas or electric heater, depending on the fuel source prevalent in their area. It is a personal choice, and one that should be based on whichever system is best suited to your needs. The financial costs should also be weighed against the over-all benefits. The type of fuel you will be using will be an important factor when deciding what unit to choose. For example, purchasing an electric heater will be more suitable if you are used to using this type of fuel. It will all be dependant on your personal needs and wishes.
There will be other factors you will need to consider, such as family circumstances before you make your decision. You will need to consider your future at the property, and whether or not your family size is likely to increase. You should consider the following:
What are your long term plans for the property?
Do you intend to use it as a family home or will it simply be used as an investment property?
Will hot water be used quite frequently?
You will also need to think about preserving energy. Selecting the appropriate size of the water heater will be important for energy efficiency. Energy will be wasted if it is continuously heating more water than is required. An alternative would be to purchase a space-saving gas or electric on-demand system in which cold water is heated as and when required. This could potentially be a good way to preserve energy, as no energy is wasted keeping the water hot, the unit itself will not take up much space as it has no storage tank, and you will never run out of hot water. However, if you wish to use various appliances at the same time, it may be better to purchase more than one.
Solar water heater - good option?
Some people are attracted to purchasing a solar water heater. If you decide to purchase one, it is likely that your installation and purchase costs will be high, however this might still work in your favour in the long run as you may save on operations costs.
The worth of your property is likely to increase with a full central heating system. However, it is important to take into account the suitability of the heater you purchase and the type of property you have. For example, if you have a small one bedroom apartment, installing an instantaneous heater will be more practical and appropriate. Therefore, the following points should be considered before making your decision:
initial installation costs
the costs involved in connecting the fuel type to the water heater
annual supply and maintenance costs
Generally there are a wide range of heating systems available to suit different needs. It will all depend on your own personal preference, and how much you are willing to spend.
Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about boilers, central heating, London plumber, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.
