Homeowners should start preparing now for new Federally-mandated efficiency regulations! Water heaters manufactured after April 15 will be required to have higher energy factors. As a result, water heaters will cost more and will be challenging to install, especially in homes with space constraints. New models will be taller, wider and heavier and may even need to be relocated to fit properly and operate safely. However, water heaters manufactured before this date may still be bought, sold and operated.