A 40-gallon hot water heater may be enough for a family of four, but it really depends on how much hot water they use. If they are careful with their water use, a 40-gallon heater could work. But for those who use more hot water, it's better to choose a 50-gallon heater.
If you have a small household and are mindful of hot water usage, a 40-gallon heater may suffice. However, for larger families or higher hot water demands, a 50-gallon heater is likely the better choice. Consider your specific needs and usage patterns to make the best decision.
In general, 40-gallon heaters last eight years, while 50-gallon heaters can last 12 years. This is because 50-gallon heaters have thicker tanks. As a result, they are less likely to develop leaks. A 50-gallon water heater will last about 8 to 20 years, which is longer than most water heaters.
Oversized water heaters consume more energy than properly sized models, so your utility costs are noticeably higher. Plus, bigger models are more expensive upfront, so you've also wasted money on the initial equipment purchase. The same goes for tankless water heaters that are too big – they waste energy and money.
If you have some plumbing and gas experience, replacing a 40-gallon gas water heater with a 50-gallon model can be a manageable DIY project. If not, hiring a licensed plumber is recommended for safety and compliance with local codes.
For instance, a typical shower uses about 10 gallons of hot water. So, if you have a 40-gallon hot water tank, you should be able to get four average-length showers out of your hot water tank. This also depends on how much hot water you use for other things.
A small (50- to 60-gallon) storage tank is usually sufficient for one to two three people. A medium (80-gallon) storage tank works well for three to four people. A large tank is appropriate for four to six people.
Typically, the rule-of-thumb is that you want a 40 gallon tank for 1 to 4 people, a 50 gallon tank for 4 to 6 people, and a 50 gallon high recovery or 75 gallon tank for 6 to 8 people. Energy consumption for 40 and 50 gallon standard water heaters is quite comparable.
In general, a 40- to 50-gallon tank is sufficient for an average household of 2 to 3 people, increasing by 10 gallons per additional person in the home. In a tankless water heater, the capacity is measured by flow rate, calculated in gallons per minute.
If you're looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective water heater, Rheemhas the edge over A.O. Smith. With superior energy efficiency, longer warranties, and better overall performance, Rheem units are designed to meet the needs of modern homeowners.
Often, the price difference is only $5-$10, making the 50-gallon heater a cost-effective upgrade. For that minimal extra expense, you get higher capacity, more flexibility, and a longer-lasting solution that will accommodate your needs as they change over time.
With a low gpm head and full hot you should be able to get 20 min out of 50 gallons. Now you turn down the hot and add a little cold and you should get more time in a less hot shower. If you need more time you could turn up the water heater and use a less hot water to cold ratio. That would get you a few more minutes.
Traditional Tank
The water is heated at least once a day to ensure a steady and ready supply of hot water. On average, these water heaters last between 8 to 12 years. They're often affected by sediment buildup. Annual flushing of the tank can help to extend a tanked water heater's lifespan.
Naturally, tanks that heat more gallons of water typically have a higher price point, so the larger the tank size, the more you can expect to pay. For example, the average 40-gallon water heater installation cost runs between $1,000 and $2,500, while its 80-gallon counterpart runs between $2,650 and $3,910.
A rule of thumb is you'll need a water heater tank that's at least 2/3 the size of your bath tub. Most walk-in tubs range in capacity from 42 to 60 gallons. So, for a 60 gallon walk-in tub, you'd need at least a 40-gallon water heater.
If you are on a budget, a 40-gallon may be the better option for you. Water Heater Efficiency: When it comes to efficiency, a 50-gallon water heater is going to be more efficient than a 40-gallon water heater. This is because it will have a lower recovery time, which means it will take less time to heat the water.
The diameter of the 50 gallon unit is only 2” bigger than the 40 gallon model, and the other dimensions and venting requirements are identical. No venting or gas piping revisions are needed going up from one size to the other.
If you limit your hot water activities to ONLY showers, a 40-gallon water heater could comfortably handle 2 average-length showers at the same time (17 + 17 = 34 gallons).
If you need a rough estimate of what size water heater you need, follow these standard guidelines: 1 to 2 People: 30 – 40 Gallons. 2 to 3 People – 40 – 50 Gallons. 3 to 4 People: 50 – 60 Gallons.
Here are some guidelines for selecting the right water tank size for different family sizes: For a family of 4: A minimum of 15,000 litres of water storage is recommended, but a larger tank size of 22,500 to 30,000 litres is ideal for ensuring a reliable water supply.
Calculating Water Heater Size
On average, hand washing takes about 2 gallons, running the dishwasher uses 14 gallons, a bath or shower for one person is 20 gallons, and washing a load of laundry is 30 gallons. I you're in a family of four, a 50-gallon water tank should cover all those showers and washings.
Oversized units find it challenging to maintain a steady flow of hot water when the demand varies. If it is too big, the water heater may need help adapting to the flow rate changes, leading to uneven temperatures during simultaneous water usage in different areas of your home.