Choosing the Right Water Heater for Your Needs
There is an endless selection of water heaters to choose from, with variations in size, purpose, fuel source, and what you’re looking for in terms of cost and efficiency. Whether you’re considering a 40 gallon water heater for a typical household or comparing a 40 gallon water heater to a larger-capacity model, making the right choice often comes from working with trusted professionals who provide clear, honest guidance about what you actually need and help you get it. Choosing the right water heater doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why we’re here to help.
This is one of the many professional services we provide at Payless Water Heaters. Our team brings over 35 years of combined industry experience, and during that time, we’ve helped California homeowners select reliable water heater solutions, including 40 gallon water heater options, to suit a wide range of household needs. By taking a close look at your specific water heater requirements, we guide you toward the right type, size, efficiency level, and 40 gallon water heater options that fit your home and budget.
If you’d like a deeper look at the factors involved in choosing the right water heater, be sure to check out our blog post.
Tankless Water Heater vs. Tank Water Heaters
First, you’ll need to determine the best type of water heater for you.
Traditional Tank Water Heaters
Traditional tank water heaters store between 20 and 120 gallons of hot water in a tank. A 40 gallon water heater is one of the most common options for residential use, as the water is constantly heated and ready when needed. Tank water heaters are generally less expensive upfront than tankless models, are usually easier to install, and typically require less overall maintenance. However, a 40 gallon water heater can run out of hot water, is less energy efficient, and takes up significantly more space compared to tankless systems.
Payless Water Heaters installs reliable, professionally manufactured conventional water heaters from Bradford White. Learn more on our Brands We Work With page.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it passes through the unit, allowing them to deliver an unlimited hot water supply, improved energy efficiency, and a smaller overall footprint. Compared to a 40 gallon water heater, tankless systems do not store hot water. Instead, they provide hot water as needed, though they typically involve higher upfront costs, more complex installation requirements, and greater maintenance needs than traditional tank-style models.
Payless Water Heaters proudly installs premium, high-performance tankless water heaters from Noritz. Learn more on our Brands We Work With page. Discover why we selected Noritz as a leading gas tankless water heater brand for homeowners looking to save money and reduce emissions.
Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters
Water heaters now come in a variety of fuel sources that are especially exciting for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and for those looking to cut down their monthly utility costs.
Water heaters now come in forms that can be powered by:
Gas Water Heaters
40 gallon water heaters that run on natural gas or propane heat water in a tank and typically recover hot water faster than electric models. A 40 gallon water heater often costs less to operate and provides reliable performance for many households, making it a common choice for residential use. However, gas-powered 40 gallon water heaters usually have higher upfront costs, require access to a natural gas or propane line, and can pose safety risks if not properly installed and regularly maintained.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric 40 gallon water heaters use electricity to heat the water stored in the tank. They are typically less expensive to purchase, don’t require natural gas, and are considered a safer option compared to gas water heaters. However, a 40 gallon water heater can be more expensive to operate over time, particularly as electricity prices increase. Electric models are also generally less efficient than gas water heaters and may not be the most suitable choice for larger households with higher hot water demand.
If your property can accommodate a newer, more innovative system, our team is happy to help you choose the right size and efficiency level, including a 40 gallon water heater when appropriate. We provide professional installation and reliable service to ensure your new system is installed correctly and performs as expected.
Determining The Best Size Water Heater
The most traditional fuel sources for residential water heaters are gas and electric energy, and a 40 gallon water heater is commonly selected for mid-sized homes, as it typically provides enough hot water for 3–5 people.
Choosing your water heater size can be broken down into the following categories:
- Common Models: 40-75 gallons, mostly residential
- Large Models: 65-80 gallons, mostly residential
- Largest Models: 100-120 gallon, residential or commercial
Other key features that you need to consider include:
- Purchase price
- Installation cost
- Space requirements
- Hot water demand and GPM
- Maintenance costs
- Longevity
- Environmental impact
- Safety
The most traditional fuel sources for residential water heaters are gas and electric energy, and most homeowners choose a 40 gallon water heater for a mid-sized home because it typically provides enough hot water for 3–5 people.
Contact Payless Before Choosing Your Water Heater
For 24/7 water heater services from reliable, experienced professionals, contact Payless Water Heaters: 888.548.5632
Because we specialize in water heaters, we routinely save our customers hundreds of dollars compared to traditional plumbers, and we never charge overtime fees
