Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Water heaters: rent or buy?

(NC)—In many parts of Canada, homeowners have the option of either renting or buying a new water heater when their machine breaks down. So which option is best for your circumstances?

Renting or leasing offers the convenience of small monthly payments, as well as access to fast, 24-hour service, 365 days a year. Installation is easy and convenient, and removal of the old water heater is part of the job. On the other hand, there may be limits on the type, size and efficiency of water heaters available through lease or rental arrangements.

Add up all the monthly rental payments over the years and you may find that buying a water heater will be cheaper in the long run. Buying outright can also give you access to a broader range of water heating technologies and suppliers, since systems can be purchased from utilities, contractors or through retail outlets.

In either scenario, it's important to select the most energy-efficient model that meets your household's needs. After all, you use hot water in the home every day – often lots of it.

To make an energy-wise choice, look for the ENERGY STAR symbol on the product, its packaging or literature. ENERGY STAR qualified water heaters use at least five percent less energy than conventional equipment, and that can translate into significant cost savings over the life of the equipment.

Whether to rent or buy is a personal choice, but always insist on ENERGY STAR qualified equipment to keep operating costs to a minimum and reduce energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, visit energystar.nrcan.gc.ca or call 1-800-OCANADA.

Source: www.newscanada.com

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