How Do You Size A Hot Water Tank?
Sizing a hot water tank properly will ensure you won’t be stuck in a cold shower and that you keep your utility bills down. Hot water tanks work by heating the water in the tank and keeping it warm until you need to use it. When you use hot water, it is taken out of the top of the tank and cool water enters the bottom of the tank to be heated. Hot water heaters are sized by their first hour rating which takes into account the capacity of the hot water tank and how quickly it can replace used water. Determine which hour during the day your household uses the most hot water. Remember to take into account all hot water usage, such as food preparation and laundry, when making your estimate. Determine how much water you use in your bathroom during that hour. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a shower takes about 12 gallons, baths take about 9 gallons and shampooing your hair takes an additional 4 gallons. Each time you wash your hands or face you use about 4 gallons and each shave
