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Energy Star Water Heaters – Energy Star has specific criteria for the various water heaters available on the market. To meet these criteria, a manufacturer has to apply its product to Energy Star testing. Furthermore, they also pay a fee that is for costs. However, the charge is mainly for laboratory testing for the product.
The water heater is test tested for the Energy Star specific criteria, and the numbers calculated. Furthermore, if the water heater meets or exceeds the requirements, then the manufacturer can put the Energy Star label on the product. Additionally, the Energy Star name is a sales point for many different brands.
Energy Star Water Heaters | Testing Criteria
Energy Star has specific criteria for different types of water heaters. Different types of water heaters include, solar, gas-fired, electric, gas-fired commercial, and included with electric are heat pump water heaters. Furthermore, a glossary of terms for Energy Star Water Heaters includes:
- Energy Factor (EF): Energy Factor is an older testing measurement. It is used by the Department of Energy to determine overall energy efficiency.
- First Hour Rating (FHR): An estimate of the maximum volume of hot water in gallons that a storage water heater can supply within an hour that begins with the water heater fully heated. Based on an outlet temperature of 125° F for the Uniform Energy Factor test method and 135° F for the Energy Factor test method.
- Gallons per Minute (GPM): The number of gallons per minute of hot water that can be supplied by an instantaneous water heater while maintaining a nominal temperature rise during steady-state operation.
- Solar Energy Factor (SEF): The energy delivered by the total system divided by the electrical or gas energy put into the system.
- Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): Finally, the newest measure of water heater overall efficiency. The higher the UEF value is, the more efficient the water heater
Energy Star Heat Pump/Electric Water Heater Criteria
Gas-Fired Water Heater Criteria
Instantaneous Water Hater Heater Criteria
Solar Water Heater Criteria
Depending on the type of water heater you purchase will depend on the criteria for qualification. Always remember, there are tax rebates and energy credits for those purchasing Energy Star rated products.
Additionally, it makes your home more energy-efficient and saves you money in the long run. While the cost may be higher upfront for the Energy Star gas heating products, the long-term energy savings can be significant. Additionally, with energy savings comes monthly savings on your utility bills. However, there is always some bitterness with the sweet.
Purchasing these products means you are getting the latest technology. Furthermore, it also means you are getting a product with bells and whistles. Additionally, the bells and whistles are what cost you in the short term and long term. Short-term costs are an initial purchase. The long-term cost is in repairs if something breaks down. It is partially the reason why they include warranties in their qualifying criteria. Furthermore, although you have a limited parts warranty, you will likely have to pay for labor. Additionally, check for other possible hidden fees, terms, and exclusions in the warranty. Example:
- Who pays for shipping if the part is shipped express?
- Does the warranty transfer to a new owner if you sell?
Conclusion | Energy Star Water Heaters
There is much to decide when purchasing high-efficiency products. Once you have decided to purchase a qualifying product that is high efficiency, get a good contractor for installation. Bad installations can end up costing you more in frustration, break downs, and the product is not so efficient. To help you check out our page: How to Find a Good Contractor. In the long run, hiring a good, reliable professional to install your new water heater will pay off.
Energy Star Water Heaters