Is your water heater more than 10 years old?
Are you experiencing low hot water?
Is your water heater leaking?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, now is the time to buy a new water heater.

However, water heaters will look a lot different in 30 days. Government regulations are changing the way water heaters are designed, purchased, and installed. Almost ALL currently installed water heaters are affected by the new National Appliance Energy Conversion Act (NAECA) April 2015 regulations, which are designed to:
• Reduce home appliance use• Conserve more water• Generate significant energy cost savings
Here is everything that you need to know about the new water heater regulations coming on April 16, 2015:

  1. It’s all about the EF Factor. The NACEA will periodically make changes to improve the Energy Factor (EF Factor). The EF factor is developed by measuring how much energy delivered to the water heater from your power source is being used to heat your water heater. The higher the EF, the better efficiency and cost savings you’ll receive from your water heating unit.
  2. The new regulation will impact water heating manufacturers, distributors, contractors, business owners, and homeowners. All water heater types are affected as well: gas, electric, oil, and tankless.
  3. You can still purchase water heaters made before April 16, 2015, date. However, if you purchase your water heater after this date, you’ll see changes to the water heater’s power source, size, technologies, and other design features.
  4. Prepare to find a new location and power source for your water heater. The new sizing, piping, and energy-efficient ignition requirements are making homeowners consider new spaces to store their water heaters. Companies like Hope Plumbing can provide you with an estimate of how much it would cost to move your water heater to a different location in your home.
  5. Costs of water heaters will increase. Insider sources tell us consumers can expect to pay 25% more for their water heaters starting April 2015. Despite these increased costs, you’ll see cost savings from your water and utility bills in the long run. The overall “life” of your water heater should be longer as well.
  6. The market will see a dramatic push toward tankless water heaters. Tankless water heaters are labeled the “efficiency king” because the unit only turns on when you’re using hot water. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless units do not store water and heat it constantly. You’ll only use hot water when you need it. The upfront cost of a tankless water heater is significantly higher than a traditional water heater, but the unit will “pay for itself” over the years through reduced utility bills.
    As your Indianapolis plumbing company, Hope Plumbing is here to help you understand these new regulations, explain the difference between your water heater options, and pick out a water heater that best fits your needs. Call now to replace your water heater before prices spike.
    Contact us today at (317) 641-4673 or send us questions on Twitter @Hopeplumbing. For more information on the new water heater regulations, visit www.rheem.com.
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