Propane Hot Water Heaters: Average Costs

Propane hot water heaters range in cost from different manufacturers, from $330 to $1,300, depending on where you buy them. The most expensive propane hot water heaters found are the Rheem 50 gallon propane hot water heaters. The least expensive model found at this time is the Kenmore Power Miser 6, with a 30 gallon tank. Both models offer anode rods, aluminized steel burners and pressure safety valves, but the Kenmore offers Foamite insulation and Pexan polymers on the inlet tubes. The Kenmore also offers energy saver pilot and drain valves as well as an Ultra low Nitrogen oxide emission standard for California. Both models offer CSA certified energy cut offs, the only difference found is the price, manufacturer and the tank size.

Propane Costs

Since propane hot water heaters run on propane alone, it is important to notice how propane prices will affect your bills. Propane prices are higher in 2009 and 2010 than in previous years due to crude oil prices becoming higher. Prices for propane hot water heaters as well as propane itself vary in different parts of the United States. This is due to supply and demand as well as weather and location. Your tanks should be refilled or exchanged when they become low, and sometimes this can be expensive depending on where you live, which seems to be the only downfall of propane hot water heaters.

Safety

Propane hot water heaters are completely safe to use in the home, as the tanks are stored outside. It is recommended to save on costs, that the temperature of your propane hot water heaters be turned down to 120 degrees, and this will save up to 20% on your water heater bill. One of the major up sides of owning propane hot water heaters is that the federal government offers tax credits for using energy efficient propane hot water heaters that have an Energy Star on them. The credit covers the installation costs of your unit, and will cover 30% of the cost, up to a total of $1,500 for the purchase and installation costs you incur. Not only do you get great energy efficient propane hot water heaters, but you can also get a tax credit for using a renewable resource.