• The basics: how your water heater works
• How to choose the right water heater
• Need a new water heater?

Some key parts of your water heater include: A steel tank holds the hot water.  The tank is usually lined with a rust-proof material to prevent rust, and is surrounded by insulation to retain heat. The tank also has a sacrificial anode to prevent corrosion. A dip tube brings the cold water into the tank.  The shutoff valve stops the flow of water. Heating elements heat the water   A thermostat controls the temperature of the water inside the tank A hot water outlet pipe carries hot water out of the tank A pressure relief valve prevents the tank from excess pressure, which in extreme cases could cause the tank to explode. A drain valve allows the tanks to be drained for maintenance.

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How to choose the right water heater

To select the right water heater for your home, you need to consider the size of your family and other factors that contribute to your First Hour Rating Requirement.

The following are residential water heater sizing guidelines for several family sizes, based on A.O. Smith products.

1. Determine whether your family is Low Demand or High Demand. You should consider your family to be High Demand if...
   • There are more than two full baths in the home.
   • There are (or will be) teenagers living in the home. It's a fact: teenagers use more hot water for showering and washing clothes.
   • If you have an oversized whirlpool bath or other large tub. As a rule of thumb, the water heater tank capacity should be 100% of your bathtub capacity (example: 75-gallon tub / 75-gallon water heater).
2. Find your Family Size and Demand Profile in the chart below, and read across to find the First Hour Rating Requirement for your family. If you decide your family is High Demand, consider moving up to the next First Hour Rating level.
3. Consult the charts on respective water heater specifications for an A.O. Smith residential electric water heater with a First Hour Rating that meets your requirement

Remember, these are general recommendations. A PSE&G Water Heater Specialist can review your family's needs in even greater detail to make sure the model you choose will always provide enough hot water to meet the demand. Call PSE&G’s WorryFree Replacement Center at 1-800-539-7734.

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Need a new water heater?

PSE&G will replace your old water heater with quality A.O. Smith products. We offer an easy payment plan, with no money down and monthly payments right on your PSE&G bill.

For a free replacement estimate Call 1-800-539-7734 or learn more on our Water Heater Replacement webpage.

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