– Energy costs are rising. “green”Conservation and movement are popular topics. Daily media reports feature energy-saving suggestions. To encourage consumers to purchase more efficient appliances, subsidies and tax credits are available from the states and federal governments. Many homeowners neglect to think about their water heater when it is time to go. “green.”

The average lifespan of water heaters today is 13 years. However, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends that you purchase a new heater if your existing unit has been in use for more than seven years. This gives homeowners enough time to search for the right water heater for them, and not wait for it to break down or go with the cheapest option for cold showers.

High-efficiency water heaters are becoming more popular with consumers when replacing old units, or for remodeling or building projects. These models are more expensive initially but the savings in water usage and energy consumption will last for the entire life of the appliance. These units are reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to use between 10 and 50 percent less energy. This benefits both your budget as well as the environment.

Recent research by the Gas Technology Institute examined the residential performance and efficiency of both high-efficiency water heaters as well as conventional units. A. O. Smith’s Vertex, a hybrid gas-condensing residential unit that incorporates tank-type as well as tankless technology, had the best overall performance for high-volume and average hot water usage. This is 64-gallons per day.

Ed Begley Jr., a long-standing environmental champion and host of the HGTV series, has endorsed this episode “Living With Ed,”The Vertex is capable of providing hot water for both showers and baths, with a 90 percent thermal efficiency. It is also designed to meet modern lifestyle requirements.

“Using more efficient combustion to produce hot water at lower operating costs and 90 percent thermal efficiency, the Vertex is a good choice for customers who want to save energy without skimping on hot water,”David Chisolm, A. O. Smith Water Heater brand manger.

Visit this page for more information about the A. O. Smith Vertex Model. hotwater.com/resources/energy-star-qualified-products/.