The water heater is a fundamental part of many businesses that require facilities for workers or customers. Although some larger buildings may use "collective" large-scale water heaters, many businesses, including restaurants, housing and hospitalities, rely on regular-sized water heaters of the standard residential size. Those in charge of "public services" for an office or for hospitalities pay attention to their water heater purchases to make the company's facilities as competitive as possible; running water is a big part of any "bricks and mortar" business. Just ask anyone who's ever had to deal with poor water pressure or substandard water heating.
Businesses use water heaters to:
1. Provide hot water in restrooms for restaurants, offices or public spaces.
2. Heat water for residential use in apartment buildings.
3. Accommodate guests in hotels, motels or hostels.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Price water heaters online
Commercial hot water heaters range in price from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand depending on factors like tank capacity and high-tech features. Browse models online and compare price tags. Order online for easy purchasing and shipping setup
I recommend: Lowe's has an online age with a collection of water heaters priced for shopping at a glance.
Nextag offers water heater models for sale online.
Compare electric water heaters, gas water heaters and tankless water heaters
Think about how much each type of heater will cost to install and run. Look into electric tankless water heaters, an eco-friendly alternative.
I recommend: The
U.S. Department of Energy is a good resource when you are deciding between gas, electric or tankless water heaters. Depending on your business, you may have inherited a certain type of water heater with your office, but it's never too late to choose a better solution.
Tankless water heaters, or "on demand hot water" heaters provide hot water only as it is needed.
Go Tankless,
Bosch and
E-Tankless Water Heaters are popular commercial tankless water heater vendors.
Find tech support for your water heater
In installing and using your water heaters, you may find you need some professional help. Solutions for support are also online. Just access a plumbing support site and log your details to find a rep in your area.
I recommend: Home Depot offers a directory of techs for water heater fixes. Fill out their online form to schedule a free phone consultation.
ServiceMagic allows you to match a technician to your needs using your zip code and a short survey.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Look for warranties. If you're busy with multiple projects, it helps to have a guarantee lined up in case your water heater goes on the fritz. Malfunctioning models can be swapped out and replaced quicker with a warranty from the vendor.
- Read your consumer reports. Features vary on a water heater, but as it operates on a pretty straightforward principle, there are a number of good guides that rate tanks and "tankless" water heaters, so instead of just choosing by price, be proactive and do a little research to be savvy before you buy.
The official source of Water Heaters is the Water Heaters page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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