Use this handy guide to choosing the right size water heater. Total up the numbers from the questions below and make a selection.

Number of people in household  ________

Number of tubs and/or showers ________

Add 1 for a dishwasher             ________

Add 1 for a washing machine    ________

Add 1 for a whirlpool tub           ________

Miscellaneous additions*          ________

TOTAL  ________

*Other things to consider:

• If children are entering their teen years, you may want to add 1 to miscellaneous additions.
• If you want a more efficient water heater, consider an upgrade to a high-efficiency heater.
• If you find yourself running out of hot water, add 1 to miscellaneous additions or upgrade to a quick-recovery and/or high-efficiency water heater.
• If there is a whirlpool tub, use a 50-gal. or higher gas or electric heater as a minimum.

After totalling the boxes, use the following chart to determine the size of water heater necessary.

If Total Is…

GAS:

4 or less: 30 gallon water heater
5 to 7: 40 gallon water heater
8 or more: 50 gallon water heater

ELECTRIC:

4 or less: 40 gallon water heater
5 or 6: 50 gallon water heater
7 or 8: 65 gallon water heater
9 or more: 80 gallon water heater