Tuesday, May 7th, 2019
If you’re shopping for a new hot water heater, you may have come across the term “power vent” in your research.
“Power vent” is simply a term used to describe the way your water heater pushes out harmful combustion gases out your home. For some residences, depending on where your water heater is located, a power vent may be your only option. For others, a power vent water heater may be an new consideration to improve exhaust capabilities.
Power vent water heaters tend to be more expensive than direct vent water heaters, so sitting down and learning the difference between the two can make all the difference in your budget.
Direct vent and power vent water heaters are the two most popular types of water heaters on the market today. Let’s break down exactly how these two differ from one another:
Direct Vent Water Heater
A direct vent water heater is typical in most older homes. With a direct vent water heater, exhaust gases are vented vertically, and are hooked up directly to the home’s chimney. Combustion gasses are pushed out your water heater, into your home’s chimney, and out your home.
Power Vent Water Heater
A power vent water heater is not hooked up to your home’s chimney. A power vent water heater is vented horizontally and vents exhaust through a horizontal pipe that leads out your home. An added fan/blower pushes the exhaust gases through this pipe. Extra power is required to power the blower, and this power source is separate from powering your water heater. For example, a gas water heater with an electrically-powered power vent.
So are power vent water heater’s better than direct vent water heaters? The truth is, this model has its own advantages and disadvantages:
Pros of Power Vent Water Heaters
Cons of Power Vent Water Heaters
So are power vent water heaters worth the extra price? Ultimately, whether you purchase a direct vent or power vent water heater depends on your home layout, chimney location, and preferences. If you’re unsure whether a power vent water heater is right for you, our water heater experts can help point you in the right direction!
Contact Empire State Plumbing online or call us at 1-518-482-4205 today!
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