Optimal Representation of Water Heaters

[connorjcantrell]

I propose enhancing the representation of water heaters by having the ability to classify a water heater by energy source, heating method, and storage type. Considering the potential combinations of these attributes, are traditional classes sufficient, or should we explore an alternative approach?

Energy Source

• Gas Water Heater
• Electric Water Heater

Heating Method

• Condensing Water Heater
• Non-Condensing Water Heater

Storage

• Tank Water Heater
• Tankless Water Heater (On-Demand)

Combination of Attributes

If we were to take a class based approach, the water heater class would expand considerably. For example:

• Tankless Gas Water Heater
• Tankless Electric Water Heater
• Condensing Tankless Water Heater
• Non-Condensing Tankless Water Heater
• Condensing Tankless Electric Water Heater
• Non-Condensing Tankless Gas Water Heater
• ...and more combinations