The Best Water Heaters

HOW TO CHOOSE = When trying to choose among the best water heaters, consider repair parts and service. Owners and contractors often complain about difficulty in obtaining parts.

Check with your plumber to be sure you are getting a water heater that is easy and cost-effective to run and maintain. Check the installation costs.

These should cost between $200 and $400 to install, depending on existing conditions and labor rates where you live. Tankless water heaters can cost $1200 or more because of the extra plumbing and electrical work required.

Check into rebates, tax credits and other incentives. These could make an energy efficient unit more affordable. The manufacturer’s specifications will tell you how much insulation the unit has. Look for 2” instead of 1”.

Warranties on this item are not a critical consideration. They often are not transferable to new owners, they usually don’t cover labor after the first year, and improper maintenance can void them.

Good customer service and quick repair parts are more important things to have. Maintenance is particularly important if you have hard water.

THE REVIEW = The Kenmore 32656 Power Miser 6 is designated as the Best Budget Electric Water Heater. This 55-gallon electric water heater costs much less than the more energy-efficient units, but whether or not it’s a bargain depends on your local electricity rates and how well you conserve water.

It can heat 61 gallons an hour. It sells for a mere $290 and has a 6 year warranty on parts – labor is not covered.

Other top performers include:

Best Energy-Efficient Gas Water Heater = Kenmore 33159 HydroSense @ about $600.

Best Energy-Efficient Electric Water Heater = Rheem/Ruud Marathon MSR 50245 @ about $1,100. Best Heat Pump Add-on = AirGenerate AirTap A7 @ $700.

Best price found in Dec., ’09 and again in June, '10 = Kenmore is at Sears; other models had the lowest prices at Amazon.com Marketplace.

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