Each type has its advantages, but single element water heaters are usually only models of 30-gallons and less. Plus, many are 120-volt, while the bigger tanks are 240-volt to deliver more heating energy. Dual element units are easily recognizable by the two raised panels in the front for access to replace the elements. Here’s a listing of the pros and cons of each type:

Single Element

•  Cheaper to buy.
•  Less expensive to maintain, with only one element and one
        thermostat.
•  Slower recovery time.
•  Not as energy efficient as double element.
•  120-volt models available that use only one circuit in electric panel.

Double Element

• More expensive.
• Better energy efficiency.
• Higher maintenance cost, with two elements and two thermostats to
         replace.
• Faster recovery time.

    One of the curious facts about double element water heaters is that their faster recovery time is not because two elements simultaneously heat the water. Only one operates at a time, first the top element and then the bottom one.

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Here’s links to a collection of more blog posts about WATER HEATERS:

• Are water heaters required to be raised off the floor? 

• Can a Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR or T&P) valve be mounted to discharge horizontally?

• Can you use a light switch for a water heater disconnect? 

• How can I tell if a water heater is HUD-approved for mobile/manufactured homes?

• Can you wire a 240-volt water heater with 120 volts? 

• Is it alright to have a shut-off valve on both the hot and cold water pipes at a water heater?  

• What is the minimum clearance to doors and windows for an outdoor tankless gas water heater? 

• What is required clearance for access and working space in front of an electric water heater? 

• Why is the water heater older than the house? 

• Does a water heater need a shut-off valve? 

• Why should a tankless water heater have an isolator/service valve kit installed?

• When was a gas water heater first required to be elevated 18 inches above a garage floor?  

• Can the temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve discharge pipe for a mobile/manufactured home water heater terminate under the home? 

• What is the purpose of a thermostatic mixing valve above a water heater? 

• Does a tankless gas water heater still work with no electricity during a power outage?  

•  Why do water heaters have a sacrificial anode? 

• What is the difference between a manufactured/mobile home water heater and a regular water heater? 

• Does a tankless water heater require a pressure relief valve?

• When is a water heater drain pan required?

• What's the valve with the flip-up handle on the water heater for?

• Why is an older water heater an insurance problem?

   Visit our WATER HEATERS page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.