New efficient storage water heaters

New qualified storage water heaters have a better insulation and more efficient burners and heat traps. But they do not differ much from older, unqualified models. The technology is the same and the energy savings they provide are modest

Pros

The main advantage of these units over other more energy-efficient alternatives – the tankless models, the new condensing units or the solar water heaters – is on their low price. See: Water Heaters Prices

Cons

Energy Star estimates the energy savings of new efficient storage water heaters (over older models) at 7.5%, which means something around $300 or $400 over the lifetime of the water heater – a modest amount compared with other alternatives.

Power vent storage water heaters

High efficiency water heater models can have a power vent to accelerate the venting of combustion gases, and to get higher energy savings. Prefer these models, if the additional installation costs aren’t too high.

Alternatives to storage water heaters

If you are building a new home, or if the initial investment isn’t a problem to you, consider other more energy-efficient water heating alternatives: the solar, the condensing, the tankless or even heat pumps water heaters.

See:
Tankless water heaters
Gas condensing water heaters
Solar water heaters
Electric Heat Pumps Water Heaters