A condensing water heater is a type of water heater that operates by extracting heat from the exhaust gases produced by burning natural gas or propane. The hot exhaust gases are passed through a secondary heat exchanger where they transfer their heat to the incoming cold water, heating it up before it is sent to the taps or appliances in the home.
The main advantage of a condensing water heater is its high energy efficiency. By capturing heat that would otherwise be lost in the exhaust gases, these units can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 98%. This translates to significant energy savings over time and can make a noticeable difference in utility bills.
Another benefit of condensing water heaters is their relatively low emissions output. Since they capture more of the heat produced during combustion, less fuel is needed to heat the same amount of water, resulting in lower emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
However, one potential drawback of condensing water heaters is their higher upfront cost compared to standard water heaters. Additionally, they require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
