Types of Water Heaters: Which is Right for Your Utah Home?
Your water heater works harder than any other appliance in your home, providing hot water for showers, dishes, laundry, and cleaning. Yet most Utah homeowners don't think about their water heater until something goes wrong—usually when standing in a cold shower on a winter morning.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Utah homeowners need to know about water heaters: the different types available, maintenance requirements that extend lifespan, signs it's time for replacement, and energy efficiency options that can reduce your utility bills.
Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters
The most common type in Utah homes, tank water heaters store and heat 40-80 gallons of water continuously.
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost ($800-$1,500 installed)
- Simpler installation and maintenance
- Works with existing venting and gas lines
- Lower repair costs
Cons:
- Higher operating costs (continuous heating)
- Limited hot water supply (tank capacity)
- Bulky space requirements
- Shorter lifespan (8-12 years)
- Risk of catastrophic tank failure
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, those planning to move within 5-10 years, homes with standard utility room configurations
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters
Tankless units heat water instantly as it flows through the unit, providing endless hot water without storage.
Pros:
- Unlimited hot water supply
- 20-30% energy savings
- 20+ year lifespan
- Compact wall-mounted design
- No risk of tank rupture flooding
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost ($2,500-$4,500 installed)
- May require gas line or electrical upgrades
- Output limitations (simultaneous use)
- Higher maintenance requirements
- Hard water sensitivity
Best For: Large families, homes with space constraints, long-term residents wanting energy savings, luxury homes with high hot water demands
Heat Pump Water Heaters
These innovative units use electricity to move heat from surrounding air into the water, rather than generating heat directly.
Pros:
- 60-70% more efficient than standard electric
- May qualify for utility rebates
- Dehumidifies surrounding air
- Lower operating costs
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires warm ambient air (challenging in cold Utah garages)
- Noise comparable to dehumidifier
- May require larger space
Best For: Utah homes with basements or interior utility rooms, environmentally conscious homeowners, those seeking maximum energy efficiency
Utah's Hard Water Challenge
The Mineral Problem
Utah has some of the hardest water in the nation. Water hardness in the Salt Lake Valley typically ranges from 10-25 grains per gallon (gpg), with some areas exceeding 30 gpg. For comparison, water over 7 gpg is considered hard.
These dissolved minerals (primarily calcium and magnesium) create serious problems for water heaters:
- Scale buildup reduces efficiency and heating capacity
- Tank corrosion accelerates failure
- Element burnout in electric units
- Flow restriction in tankless units
- Reduced lifespan across all types
Hard Water Impact by Heater Type
Tank Water Heaters
Sediment accumulates at the bottom of the tank, reducing capacity and efficiency. The heating element or burner works harder, increasing energy costs and accelerating wear.
Tankless Water Heaters
Scale buildup on heat exchangers restricts water flow and reduces efficiency. Without regular descaling, tankless units can fail within 3-5 years in Utah's hard water conditions.
Solutions for Hard Water
Water Softeners
Installing a whole-home water softener protects your water heater and extends its lifespan. Softened water reduces scale buildup by 90% or more, improving efficiency and preventing premature failure.
Regular Flushing
For tank water heaters, annual flushing removes accumulated sediment before it causes problems. This simple maintenance task can double the lifespan of your unit in hard water conditions.
Water Heater Maintenance: Extending Lifespan in Utah Conditions
Annual Maintenance Tasks
Flush the Tank (Storage Water Heaters)
Sediment flushing is the single most important maintenance task for tank water heaters in Utah:
- Turn off power/gas to the unit
- Connect garden hose to drain valve at bottom of tank
- Run hose to floor drain or outside
- Open drain valve and allow water to flow until clear
- Close valve, remove hose, restore power
Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The T&P valve is a critical safety device. Lift the lever briefly—water should flow freely. If it drips continuously afterward or doesn't release water, the valve needs replacement.
Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod sacrifices itself to protect the tank from corrosion. In Utah's hard water, rods may need replacement every 2-3 years instead of the typical 5 years.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement
Age-Based Considerations
- Tank water heaters: 8-12 years is typical lifespan (less with Utah's hard water)
- Tankless water heaters: 15-20+ years with proper maintenance
- Heat pump water heaters: 10-15 years
Warning Signs
Rust-Colored Water
Rusty hot water indicates internal corrosion. Once the tank starts rusting from inside, failure is inevitable.
Rumbling or Popping Sounds
These noises indicate sediment buildup causing the heating element to work harder. While flushing may help, these sounds often signal a tank nearing the end of its life.
Water Around the Base
Any pooling water near your water heater requires immediate attention. Small leaks quickly become major failures.
Inconsistent Temperatures
If hot water runs out faster than usual or temperatures fluctuate wildly, heating elements or controls may be failing.
Increasing Energy Bills
Rising utility costs without increased usage often indicate declining water heater efficiency.
Contact Valley Plumbing for Water Heater Services
Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repair, or a new water heater installation, Valley Plumbing's licensed technicians provide expert service throughout the Salt Lake Valley.
Our services include:
- Water heater installation (all types)
- Annual maintenance and flushing
- Emergency repairs 24/7
- Energy efficiency upgrades
- Water softener installation
Call (801) 341-4222 to schedule service or request a free estimate on water heater replacement.
Serving Salt Lake City, Sandy, Draper, West Jordan, South Jordan, and surrounding Utah communities.
