Most water heater manufacturers sell three different height models: Tall electric water heaters — 60 inches Medium electric water heaters — 48 inches
Full Answer
Which is better, a short water heater or tall?
To help you choose, here is a detailed differentiation between the two types of water heaters:
- Tall Water Heaters Are Costlier Than Short Water Heaters Since short water heaters have a lower water storage capacity and are smaller in size, the upfront cost of these ...
- Short Water Heaters Are Energy Efficient This is a significant benefit of buying a short water heater. ...
- Short Water Heaters Have A Higher GPM Flow Rate
How tall is a tall water heater?
What Is a Tall Water Heater? As its name says, tall water heaters are indeed tall. They are made to be around 50 to 76 inches in height and will be able to hold up to 100 gallons of water. Ideally, they’re installed in your basement or garage – wherever they can be close to your home’s plumbing system.
What is the standard height of a water heater?
They usually store between 30 and 50 gallons of water but can hold as low as 10 gallons. Taller water heaters can be exorbitantly different. They can have a height that ranges anywhere between 46 and 60 inches tall and a diameter between 18 and 21 inches wide. They are more cylindrical than the shorter variety, which has a more diverse shape range.
What size tankless water heater is best?
Top 6 Best tankless water heater for Condo
- SioGreen SIO 18 tankless water heater. The SioGreen SIO 18 is a tankless water heater perfect for condos that suffers from hard water. ...
- Rheem RETEX-24 tankless water heater. The Rheem RETEX-24 (Electric tankless water heater) is a noiseless, on-demand water heating system. ...
- Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 tankless water heater. ...
How tall is a medium water heater?
Tall water heaters range from 50 to 76 inches in height and can hold up to 100 gallons of water.
Is a larger water heater more efficient?
All other things being equal, the smaller the water heater tank, the higher the efficiency rating. Compared to small tanks, large tanks have a greater surface area, which increases heat loss from the tank and decreases the energy efficiency somewhat, as mentioned above.
What is the standard water heater height?
A 50-gallon American Standard water heater has a height of 57.75 inches and a diameter of 20.31 inches. American Standard water heaters are reliable and have a lot of value. What is this? This water heater is narrower than most but a bit taller.
Which is better a tall or short water heater?
In comparison to tall water heaters, the short ones are almost 40% more energy efficient. Opting for appliances with higher energy efficiency ratings is always a wise choice. Low energy consumption will result in low energy costs and help you save some money.
Is it better to have a short or tall water heater?
Short water heaters are generally more energy-efficient as they have a lower power rating. They also heat the cold water faster than the tall ones due to the lower water volume in the storage tank.
What size water tank do I need for a family of 4?
Start with Your Household Size So, for a family of 4–5 people, you will need to get a tank that is able to hold at least 50–60 gallons. For a family that is bigger than 5, you will need to look for tanks ranging up to 80 gallons.
What is the average height of a 40 gallon water heater?
20.25 in Product Height (in.) 58.875 in Product Width (in.) 20.25 in.
What size water heater do I need for a family of 4?
60 gallonWater Heater Sizes The answer to this question will vary depending on the total number of kids you have. For example, a family of 3 to 4 people should purchase a 50 – 60 gallon water heater. On the other hand, a household with 5 – 7 people may require a water heater with a 60 – 80 gallon water tank.
Is a short or tall water heater better?
Tall water heaters work better if you have higher hot water demands, and short water heaters work best if you have space constraints.
What is the difference between a tall and short hot water heater?
Tall water heaters usually provide more hot water for larger homes, when short water heaters work best for households of only 2 - 3 people.
How tall is a standard water heater?
Tall water heaters reach up to 76 inches, and short water heaters top out at 49 inches.
How do I know what size water heater I need?
Measure the space you plan to put the water heater, considering ventilation equipment on top and how easy it will be for you to change out the anod...
How tall is a water heater?
Tall water heaters are used in houses that have a garage or a basement because they’re 46 to 60 inches tall. You also have to consider the plumbing fixtures needed to make the heater work. Without the correct accommodations, you could be stuck with the same inefficient water heater issues.
How many gallons does a water heater hold?
This water heater works well for a household of 1-2 people, which is why they’re often seen in apartments. It only holds up to about 10 gallons, making it more energy-efficient. Another plus to a short water heater is that they give more GPM than most tall water heaters.
How much hot water does a tankless water heater provide?
It supplies hot water on-demand making it cost less because it doesn’t always keep water warm. Tankless heaters can provide up to 3.5 gallons of heated water per minute.
How many gallons of water does a point of use water heater hold?
Point-of-use water heaters are the least versatile. Like the name says, you hook it up near the faucet. It holds about 2 to 19 gallons of water, so you can purchase them big or small. These water heaters are usually used in outbuildings like garages, sheds, and shops. Small ones can fit comfortably in a cabinet.
What does it mean when your water heater is blue?
It’s usually on the side of the water heater. Remove the panel, and if you see a blue flame, then your water heater is gas/ propane powered. If you don’t see that, or any connected gas pipes, you have an electric powered water heater.
What to do if your water heater isn't working?
The rule is, “if it isn’t broken, then don’t fix it,” and that means if you have a tall water heater that isn’t working, then replace it with another tall water heater. The same can be said about short heaters. The rule can also be true about the energy source that you’re using for your home.
Why do you need a blanket for a water heater?
This would make it so your water heater would retain heat more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill. While it may seem ridiculous use of money to buy a blanket for your water heater, it will save you on costs in the long run.
How tall is a water heater?
Tall. Tall water heaters installed in homes range in height from 46 to about 60 inches. They have cylinder shapes that range in diameter from 18 to around 21 inches, and typically store anywhere from 30 to 100 gallons of water. The nickname for tall water heaters is "tall boy.".
How wide is a water heater tank?
They have wide and round tanks that range in diameter from 20 to 26 inches. The nickname for short water heaters is "low boy.". They often installed in homes that have a crawlspace instead of a basement or inside of a closet inside the home or the garage or attic.
What kind of water heaters work with propane?
Short and tall water heaters work with natural gas, propane or electricity and can also store water for solar water heating systems or work with a heat pump system that works in conjunction with the heating and cooling system for a home. While the plumbing height can be adjusted for either a short or tall water heater, ...
How much water does a short water heater store?
Most short water heaters used for "whole home" water heating store anywhere from 30 to 50 gallons of water. However, there are short water heaters that store as little as 10 gallons of water. Advertisement.
What is the third place water heater?
Next to heating, cooling and refrigeration, your water heater comes in third place in terms of energy use and costs. As a general rule, you should take an "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach in selecting a tall or short water heater.
Can you adjust the height of a water heater?
While the plumbing height can be adjusted for either a short or tall water heater, it is a best practice to install the pipes vertically for faster delivery of hot water through the plumbing system and into the faucets of rooms. Advertisement.
How to determine water heater flow rate?
To determine the water heater flow rate needed, you'll want to add up the flow rates of all the appliances you plan to use at the same time ( showers, washing machines, etc.). You'll then determine the necessary temperature rise by subtracting the incoming temperature from the desired outgoing water temperature.
What are the two types of water heaters?
There are two primary types of water heaters: storage tank water heaters and tankless. Before finding the right size water heater, you must determine which type you’re going to purchase
What temperature should a tankless water heater be?
In this case, you would want a tankless water heater with a temperature rise of 50 degrees. Based on average ground water around 50 degrees, here are the sizes you would need for a tankless unit based on your ...
How many gallons of water should I use for a 10 minute shower?
If you have 4 people each take a 10 minute shower all within a one hour period, you will use about 40 gallons of hot water. This can quickly empty the tank and it may not reheat quickly enough for other uses. All it takes is one person taking a longer shower for the tank to empty.
How many GPMs do I need for a tankless water heater?
Based on average ground water around 50 degrees, here are the sizes you would need for a tankless unit based on your usage: 1 - 2 fixtures at once, you’ll need at least 3.5 GPM. 2 - 3 fixtures at once, you’ll need at least 5 GPM. 3 - 4 fixtures at once, you’ll need at least 7 GPM.
Do I need a water heater for multiple people?
You’ll most likely need a higher capacity water heater to accommodate a household where multiple people shower , run the dishwasher, wash dishes with the faucet and do laundry at the same time, compared to a small condo where you just need hot water for one task at a time.
Is a water heater an investment?
A water heater is an essential investment for any home. That being said, it's important to make sure you buy one that’s correctly sized in order to meet your family’s needs. Otherwise, you may be left without warm water for your morning shower more often than you'd like.
How many gallons of water can a tall water heater hold?
A tall water heater will provide more than enough since its large tank can store up to 100 gallons. However, you’ll need a lot of power for your tall water heater to work efficiently. Suppose an electric-powered water heater has you worrying about your monthly electricity bills.
How much space do tall water heaters need?
Tall water heaters are aptly nicknamed “tall boys.”. Because they’re so tall, they need an extra 30 to 40 inches of space for their respective plumbing fixtures to work correctly. If you’re planning on getting a tall water heater, make sure first to measure how much space you have in your garage or basement.
Why is a water heater important?
It won’t matter if a heater is tall or short as long as it gives you that much-needed heat and warmth at the comfort of your home.
What is the function of a thermostat on a water heater?
A thermostat acts as a thermometer and temperature controller of the water heater’s heating mechanism.
How much hot water does a tank water heater deliver?
First, see the capacity of your water heater. Tank water heaters usually only deliver 2/3 of hot water, as the remaining 1/3 is cold water that enters the tank.
How long does it take to heat a 50 gallon water heater?
It would be best if you also got used to estimating when to refill your water heater and for how long you need to fill it. It takes about 20 minutes to refill a 50-gallon tank and another 20-60 minutes to heat it.
What is the most prominent part of a water heater?
The most prominent part of a water heater is its tank , usually covered with insulating polyurethane foam outside.
Tall Water Heaters
Tall water heaters range from 18 to 21 inches in diameter and are about 46 to 60 inches tall. When it comes to storage tank capacity, tall electric water heaters can store up to 100 gallons of water. However, installing a tall water heater will require a room with sufficient space to accommodate it.
Short Water Heaters
As the name suggests, short water heaters are small and compact. They are about 20 to 26 inches in diameter and about 30 to 49 inches high, depending on the model. Short water heaters can typically store up to 50 gallons of water.
Differences Between a Tall Water Heater and Short Water Heater
Physical differences are not the only factors that form the basis of the tall vs short water heater debate. While tall heaters are physically larger with high storage capacities, short water heaters have their own benefits as well.
How to Choose the Best Water Heater
Choosing the perfect water heater is not just about selecting the brand and model with the best features. While the features of a given model are undoubtedly important, it’s equally crucial to check the model’s compatibility with your requirements.
Conclusion
Both tall and short water heaters are equally efficient in warming cold water and providing a premium performance. However, they fulfill different needs. If you want to make the most of your investment, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two types of appliances.
How to size demand water heater?
Therefore, to size a demand water heater, you need to determine the flow rate and the temperature rise you'll need for its application (whole house or a remote application, such as just a bathroom) in your home. First, list the number of hot water devices you expect to use at any one time. Then, add up their flow rates (gallons per minute).
How hot is water in a water heater?
Typically, a 70ºF (39ºC) water temperature rise is possible at a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute through gas-fired demand water heaters and 2 gallons per minute through electric ones. Faster flow rates or cooler inlet temperatures can sometimes reduce the water temperature at the most distant faucet.
What is the first hour rating on a water heater?
The first hour rating is the number of gallons of hot water the heater can supply per hour (starting with a tank full of hot water). It depends on the tank capacity, source of heat (burner or element), and the size of the burner or element. The EnergyGuide label lists the first hour rating in the top left corner as "Capacity (first hour rating).". ...
What temperature should a dishwasher be?
For dishwashers without internal heaters and other such applications, you might want your water heated at 140ºF (60ºC). In that case, you'll need a temperature rise of 90ºF (50ºC). Most demand water heaters are rated for a variety of inlet temperatures. Typically, a 70ºF (39ºC) water temperature rise is possible at a flow rate ...
How many people can fit in a 50 gallon tank?
A small (50- to 60-gallon) storage tank is usually sufficient for one to two three people. A medium (80-gallon) storage tank works well for three to four people. A large tank is appropriate for four to six people.
How to determine temperature rise?
To determine temperature rise, subtract the incoming water temperature from the desired output temperature. Unless you know otherwise, assume that the incoming water temperature is 50ºF (10ºC). For most uses, you'll want your water heated to 120ºF (49ºC).
Do you need an energy guide for a water heater?
The Federal Trade Commission requires an EnergyGuide label on all new conventional storage water heaters but not on heat pump water heaters. Product literature from a manufacturer may also provide the first hour rating.
How big is a 50 gallon water heater?
For example, a 50-gallon tank water heater can be as much as six feet high and 22 inches in diameter . But a tankless option with comparable output—for instance, the Takagi Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater (available from SupplyHouse )—is just 20 inches high, 14 inches wide, and less than 10 inches deep.
How many gallons of water does a tank heater need?
You can estimate the necessary tank capacity (in gallons) based on the number of people in the house: 1 or 2 people—23 to 36 gallons. 2 to 4 people—36 to 46 gallons. 3 to 5 people—46 to 56 gallons.
How much flow rate does a Takagi water heater have?
In a warm climate where a temperature rise of only 20 degrees is necessary, the Takagi has an efficient flow rate of 10 gpm. If you need the water heater to raise the water’s temperature by 45 degrees Fahrenheit, however, the flow rate falls to about 7 gpm, as indicated on the manufacturer-provided flow rate chart.
How cold should water be for a water heater?
For instance, if the cold water temperature is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, the water heater will need to heat the water 45 degrees Fahrenheit in order to reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit, so 45 degrees Fahrenheit is the required temperature rise. Adjust the flow rate by the required temperature rise.
How many gpm does a sink faucet have?
Sink faucet—1 gpm. Bathtub—3 gpm. Shower—2.5 gpm. Dishwasher—3 gpm. Clothes washer—3 gpm. For example, if your peak usage occurs after dinner when you’re running the dishwasher and taking a shower at the same time (3 gpm + 2.5 gpm), you’ll need a tankless water heater with a minimum 5.5 gpm flow rate.
What is the FHR rating for a water heater?
In addition to tank capacity, consider a water heater’s first hour rating. The first hour rating (FHR) describes how much hot water a given tank can produce in a single hour when it’s fully heated. This figure reflects the appliance’s efficiency (how quickly the water heater can reheat the water) and gives an idea of what it can handle ...
Can a 50 gallon water heater fit in a wall?
For example, a 50-gallon tank water heater can be as much as six feet high and 22 inches in diameter.