Conventional vs. Power Vented vs. Hybrid Water Heater Types. Choosing the right water heater for your home is a big decision. At Vese Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners in Edmonton find the most efficient and cost-effective water heating solutions. Whether you’re considering a conventional tank water heater, a power vent model, or a hybrid heat pump, it’s essential to understand the pros, cons, and long-term savings each type offers.
1. Conventional (Atmospheric) Water Heaters
How They Work
A conventional water heater stores and continuously heats 35-50 gallons of water to a set temperature. When hot water is used, cold water enters the tank, and the heating process restarts.
Pros:
✔ Affordable Upfront Cost – The lowest initial investment for purchase and installation.
✔ Easy to Maintain & Repair – Simple design makes troubleshooting and repairs easier.
✔ Reliable Hot Water Supply – Provides hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously.
✔ Widely Available – Parts and replacements are easily accessible.
Cons:
❌ High Operating Costs – Constant heating leads to higher energy bills due to standby heat loss.
❌ Large Space Requirement – Requires a dedicated area for installation.
❌ Limited Hot Water Supply – Can run out of hot water if demand is high.
❌ Shorter Lifespan – Lasts 10-15 years, shorter than newer technologies.
❌ Additional Chimney Liner Cost – In homes with high-efficiency furnaces, a chimney liner installation is required.
Best For: Homeowners with mid-efficiency furnaces or where a chimney liner is already in place. Otherwise, the added costs make power vent or hybrid water heaters more economically efficient option.
2. Power Vented Water Heaters
How They Work
Power vent water heaters use a fan-assisted exhaust system to vent combustion gases horizontally rather than requiring a chimney. They can run on natural gas or propane but need electricity to operate the vent fan.
Pros:
✔ No Chimney Required – No need for a chimney liner installation.
✔ Flexible Installation – Doesn’t require a chimney, making it ideal for modern homes.
✔ Increased Safety – Reduces carbon monoxide risks by eliminating backdrafting.
✔ More Energy Efficient – Uses fuel more efficiently than conventional storage tanks.
✔ Faster Hot Water Recovery – Quickly reheats water after use.
Cons:
❌ Higher Upfront Cost – More expensive than conventional models, but offset by eliminating the need for a chimney liner.
❌ Requires Electricity – Won’t work during a power outage.
❌ Potential Noise Factor – The vent fan creates some operational noise.
❌ More Complex Installation – May require extra venting work and electrical setup.
Best For: Homeowners without chimney access or those upgrading from a conventional water heater in a high-efficiency furnace home. A power vent water heater is a much smarter investment than paying for an unnecessary chimney liner.
3. Hybrid (Heat Pump) Water Heaters
How They Work
Hybrid water heaters use heat pump technology to extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water. This makes them up to four times more efficient than conventional models.
Pros:
✔ Superior Energy Efficiency – uses up to 70% less energy, on average, than a standard electrical water heater.
✔ Longer Lifespan – Lasts 20+ years, nearly twice as long as conventional water heaters.
✔ Lower Carbon Footprint – Reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
✔ Smart Features – Some models include Wi-Fi control, energy monitoring, and leak detection.
✔ Rebates & Incentives – Many energy companies offer rebates or tax credits.
Cons:
❌ Higher Initial Investment – Costs 40% more upfront than traditional tanks.
❌ Larger Size – Requires a well-ventilated area for proper operation.
❌ Climate Sensitivity – Performs best in mild climates; may rely on electric backup heating in cold conditions.
❌ Proper Configuration Needed – Needs to be set to hybrid mode to maximize savings.
Best For: Homeowners looking for long-term energy savings and an eco-friendly water heating solution. The investment pays for itself over time, making it an excellent choice for those planning to stay in their home long-term.
Comparison Summary
| Feature | Conventional (Tank) | Power Vent | Hybrid (Heat Pump) |
| Upfront Cost | ✅ Low (if used with mid-efficiency furnace or already have chimney liner in place) | ❌ Higher (but avoids chimney liner cost) | ❌ Highest |
| Operating Cost | ❌ High | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅ Lowest |
| Energy Efficiency | ❌ Low | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅ Highest (3-4x) |
| Space Requirement | ❌ Large | ⚠️ Large | ❌ Larger |
| Hot Water Supply | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Continuous |
| Installation Complexity | ✅ Simple (but requires liner) | ❌ More Complex | ❌ Most Complex |
| Lifespan | ⚠️ 10-15 Years | ⚠️ 10-15 Years | ✅ 20+ Years |
| Ideal For | In conjunction with mid-efficiency furnaces, or if chimney liner is already installed | Newer homes and homes without chimneys | Long-term savings, eco-friendly homes |
Final Thoughts – Which Water Heater is Right for You?
If you are using a high-efficiency furnace and don’t have chimney liner already installed, a conventional water heater will require an additional investment in chimney liner. Probably , you should consider:
- Power Vent Water Heater – Best for homes that want to avoid chimney liner costs while improving efficiency.
- Hybrid Water Heater – Best for long-term savings, energy efficiency, and homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Conventional vs. Power Vented vs. Hybrid Water Heater Types Expert Installation in Edmonton
At Vese Heating & Cooling, we specialize in conventional, power vent and hybrid water heater installations, helping homeowners save money while upgrading to more efficient, cost-effective solutions.
Contact us today at (825)343-6222 or book us online to schedule a consultation and get the best water heating solution for your home!
