TANK-TYPE WATER HEATERS

Water heater tanks have been the standard choice for heating water in Richmond for many years. The heat source can be electricity, natural gas, propane or fuel oil. With fuel-fired heaters, the heating element (or burner) is at the base of the tank, and a flue extends up the center of the tank. Some fuel-fired heaters vent up a chimney. A direct-vent or sealed combustion water heater can vent directly through an exterior wall.

A Water heater tank can come in many different sizes. A 40-gal. model can be adequate for two people. A family of four can get by with 40 or 50 gal. A larger family usually requires a 60-gal. or 80-gal. water heater.