Pros and Cons of Choosing a 58 Gallon Water Heater
When it's time to replace your aging water heater, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is what size new heater to get. A 58 gallon model is a popular choice for many homes.
We'll look at critical factors like efficiency, performance, cost savings, and ease of installation. Keep reading for an in-depth exploration to help inform your buying decision.
Sizing Considerations
One of the most important factors in choosing the right water heater is properly sizing it for your household's hot water requirements. Going too small can lead to running out of hot water during peak demand times. But choosing an oversized unit wastes energy and money.
When determining the optimal size, consider the following:
- Number of people in your home
- Number of bathrooms, sinks, showers, etc.
- Typical hot water usage timeframes
- Flow rates of your fixtures
Most experts recommend sizing your heater to provide about 20 gallons of hot water per household member per day as a general rule of thumb. But calculating your specific demand will give a more tailored estimate.
A 58 gallon model can typically supply enough hot water for 3-5 people, depending on usage habits. It works well for a 3-4 bedroom home with 2-3 bathrooms. The large tank size provides a buffer for high demand situations like multiple showers at once.
Peak Demand Capacity
Peak demand refers to the maximum amount of hot water your household may use at one time. Sometimes this occurs in the mornings when multiple people are showering and readying for the day.
A 58 gallon tank has a first hour rating around 53-80 gallons. This metric refers to the maximum amount of hot water the heater can supply per hour, starting with a full tank. This high output capacity makes a 58 gallon model well-suited to meet peak demand.
Efficiency and Cost Savings
Larger water heaters are typically more energy efficient overall since they don't have to work as hard to heat water compared to undersized units.
Most standard 58 gallon models have an EF (energy factor) rating of 0.67-0.70. This means they operate at 67-70% efficiency. Some high efficiency condensing units score even higher at 0.80+ EF.
Higher efficiency ratings translate directly to lower annual operating costs. You can expect to spend $400-600 per year to run a 58 gallon tank. Compare this to smaller units that average $100-200 more on yearly energy bills.
The larger size does mean a higher upfront purchase price, typically $800-1500 installed. But the energy savings usually provide a payback on that initial investment in under 5 years.
Lower Operating Costs
Because an appropriately sized 58 gallon model doesn't have to work as hard during peak usage, it undergoes less power cycling on and off. This puts less wear and tear on components like heating elements and thermostats.
Fewer repairs over the system's lifespan also contribute to better efficiency and lower overall costs. And with a larger tank, you get bigger heating elements that are less prone to breakdowns and mineral buildup compared to small elements.
Installation Factors
At 60-70 inches tall and over 150 pounds, a 58 gallon water heater is a rather large appliance. Make sure you have adequate space for it in your home before purchasing.
The main installation considerations are:
- Height - standard 58 gallon tanks need about 6.5 feet of clearace
- Floor support for the weight, usually requires a raised platform
- Venting - allocated space for proper exhaust venting to the outside
- Electrical - may need a dedicated 220V line and breaker
- Gas lines or plumbing access if not electric
A professional installation runs $500-1000 for a 58 gallon unit. The large size and weight make DIY more challenging than smaller heaters. Ensure you have the necessary skills or hire a certified plumber.
Space Constraints
Before committing to a 58 gallon model, carefully measure your utility room or heater closet. Double check the ceiling height, door widths, and clearances to make sure the large unit will realistically fit.
If space is truly limited, consider alternatives like tankless water heaters that take up less space but have pros and cons of their own.
Performance and Reliability
When sized appropriately for daily needs, a 58 gallon water heater should provide reliable hot water for an average family. The quick recovery rate ensures you don't run out even during high demand.
Most units feature durable glass lining inside the tank to prevent corrosion and rust. This protects the interior surface and water purity. Expect a lifespan of 8-12 years for the tank.
Other performance factors to consider are:
- Temperature consistency
- Warranty coverage
- Certifications like Energy Star
- Brand reputation
Established brands like Rheem, Bradford White, and AO Smith make reliable 58 gallon models that comply with efficiency and safety standards for optimal, dependable performance.
Recovery Rate
Recovery rate refers to how quickly the water heater can reheat water after usage depletes the reserve. Faster recovery means fewer instances of running out during back-to-back uses.
A 58 gallon tank recovery rate averages 25-45 degrees per hour. This rapid reheating supports consistent flow even through consecutive showers or appliance use.
Comparable Alternatives
While a 58 gallon model works well for many homes, it's not necessarily the universally ideal size. Depending on your water usage needs and constraints, comparable options may suit you better.
50 Gallon Heaters
As the name implies, 50 gallon water heaters contain an 8 gallon smaller tank than 58 gallon units. They work well for smaller homes with only 1 or 2 bathrooms.
The smaller tank does mean a bit lower energy efficiency. But 50 gallon models cost less upfront if you're on a tight budget.
Tankless Water Heaters
Need unlimited hot water? Tankless heaters provide hot water endlessly without a storage tank that can run out. But they do have drawbacks like higher upfront cost and electronic complexity.
Tankless units work better for low-volume single applications rather than whole home use. For larger homes, you may need multiple expensive tankless heaters plumbed in parallel.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
One of the most efficient modern options is a hybrid heat pump water heater. These use heat pump technology to extract ambient heat and leverage it to heat water.
Models sized around 55-60 gallons balance efficiency with adequate capacity for most homes. They cost more than standard units but slashes energy usage.
Consider dimensions, fuel type, ventilation needs and climate compatibility when weighing alternatives.
When appropriately matched to your household's requirements, a 58 gallon residential water heater strikes a nice balance of capacity, efficiency, and performance.
Pay close attention to right-sizing based on daily demand, peak demand capacity, and physical size constraints in your installation space. This helps ensure you choose the optimal model to serve your hot water needs.