Common Types of Water Heaters in Olympia, WA

Water heaters come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs. While they all share a common goal in heating water, they can differ drastically in operation, appearance and efficiency. Here we break down some of the most common water heaters you may encounter in Olympia, WA and surrounding areas such as Lacey, Tumwater and Dupont.

Conventional Tank Type

Conventional tank type water heaters are the most common type of water heater in Thurston County and likely what you are most familiar with. They are a large cylinder tank, typically holding 40-80 gallons of water. This storage type water heater tank is wrapped in insulation with a sheet metal type exterior. Variations of the tank type water heater can be found inside the home’s living space, in the garage, or even in the attic.

Natural Gas Water Heaters

Natural Gas is commonly used as a fuel source for these types of water heaters. Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and DuPont, WA all have a large presence of natural gas water heaters. Located under the storage tank is a burner assembly which heats the water. This burner is controlled by a gas control valve located on the front of the water heater, usually at the bottom 1/3 of the tank. The home’s natural gas supply is connected to the gas control valve providing fuel to the flame. Through the center of the tank and out the top is a flue vent that exits out the roof of the home. This is typically 3-4” round sheet metal and a trademark distinguishing feature of a natural gas water heater.

Pros/Cons

+ Natural Gas water heaters are simple and very reliable. With not much for working parts, they are easy to keep operational.

+ With no electrical needed on a conventional natural gas water heater, your water will still be heated even if the power goes out.

+ Natural Gas water heaters are easily adjustable in terms of controlling the temperature.

+ Being one of the most common types of water heaters available, they are also one of the most cost effective options when it comes to replacement or repairs.

- In terms of efficiency, a standard Natural Gas water heater is on the lower end of the spectrum.

- Even with proper annual maintenance, a tank type water heater can last only as long as the tank allows. Ultimately replacement is necessary at some point with an average lifespan of 10-12 years. Proper maintenance can help extend the life, find out how here.

Maintenance

Very little maintenance is required on a Natural Gas water heater in Olympia or anywhere else in Thurston County area. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is always important in promoting the longest life possible. We suggest an annual flushing/draining/inspection of the water heater and related parts and fittings. Our service partners offer a comprehensive visit which can help accommodate this in a quick and efficient visit. If there are any operational issues, repair or replacement may be more appropriate.

Propane Water Heaters

Propane water heaters are almost identical to Natural Gas. Minor differences in the gas control valve to allow for propane are the only change in design. They operate and appear the same. Propane Water Heaters are common in Thurston County, especially in rural or more remote areas. This allows the same benefits of a Natural Gas water heater without the need to live in an area that has it available.

Pros/Cons

+ Propane water heaters are simple and very reliable. With not much for working parts, they are easy to keep operational.

+ With no electrical needed on a conventional Propane water heater, your water will still be heated even if the power goes out (keeping in mind propane water heaters in are often found in homes that sit on a private well, if the power goes out you may not have water pumping to the home).

+ Propane water heaters are easily adjustable in terms of controlling the temperature.

+ Being one of the most common types of water heaters available in Olympia. Propane water heaters are also one of the most cost effective options when it comes to replacement or repairs.

- In terms of efficiency, a standard Propane water heater is on the lower end of the spectrum.

- Even with proper annual maintenance, a tank type water heater can last only as long as the tank allows. Ultimately replacement is necessary at some point with an average lifespan of 10-12 years. Proper maintenance can help extend the life, find out how here.

Maintenance

Very little maintenance is required on a Propane LPG Water Heater. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is always important in promoting the longest life possible on a propane water heater. Olympia water heater experts suggest an annual flushing/draining/inspection of the water heater and related parts and fittings. Our service partners offer a comprehensive visit which can help accommodate this in an quick and efficient visit. If there are any operational issues, repair or replacement may be more appropriate.

Electric Water Heaters

Standard Electric Water Heaters are common in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and DuPont, Washington. They are also a basic means of heating water and can be considered reliable and easy to maintain or repair. With no need for a fuel source or venting, electric water heaters can be installed virtually anywhere they can fit. An easy way to identify an electric water heater would be the electrical connection coming into the top of the water heater. Also, there are typically two element and T-Stat covers on the front of the water heater in a vertically stacked formation. These water heaters are similar to Natural Gas and Propane in terms of being a cylinder shape with insulation and outer sheet metal jacket surrounding the tank.

Pros/Cons

+ Electric water heaters do not need a fuel source, therefore do not require a fuel source or venting- making the easy to install virtually anywhere.

+ Electric water heaters are low maintenance and the tanks typically can last the same as a standard natural gas water heater.

+ In terms of replacement and installation, electric water heaters are relatively light when compared to Natural Gas or Propane.

+ Being one of the most common types of water heaters available, they are also one of the most cost-effective options when it comes to replacement or repairs.

-There are more parts on a standard electric water heater that can eventually wear out or require replacement to operate properly. Some of these parts, for example, the heating elements, can be affected by water conditions and quality.

-Electric water heaters are not as easily adjustable in terms of temperature control. We suggest referring to a licensed professional when making changes to temperature on an electric water heater.

-Obviously, with an electrical water heater there is no chance to heat water if your power goes out.

Maintenance

Very little maintenance is required on an Electric Water Heater. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is always important in promoting the longest life possible. We suggest an annual flushing/draining/inspection of the water heater and related parts and fittings. Our service partners offer a comprehensive visit which can help accommodate this in a quick and efficient visit. If there are any operational issues, repair or replacement may be more appropriate.