You might have heard of Tankless Water Heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters. They’ve gained popularity in recent years due to their energy efficiency, compact design, and convenience. But what exactly are they, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of tankless water heaters and help you determine if they’re the right choice for your home.
There are two main types of tankless water heaters: electric and gas.
Electric tankless water heaters use electricity to heat the water. They’re typically more energy-efficient than gas models and have lower upfront costs. However, they may not provide enough hot water for large households or simultaneous hot water use.
Gas tankless water heaters use natural gas or propane as a fuel source to heat the water. They tend to have a higher flow rate, making them more suitable for larger households. Keep in mind that gas models usually have higher upfront costs and may require additional venting and gas line installations.
There are several advantages to choosing a tankless water heater for your home.
Traditional water heaters store and heat large amounts of water in a tank, which leads to standby heat loss. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only heat water as needed, resulting in less energy waste and lower utility bills.
Tankless water heaters are compact and can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space in your home. This makes them an excellent choice for small homes or apartments with limited space.
As long as there is a fuel source and water supply, tankless water heaters can provide an endless stream of hot water. No more worrying about running out of hot water during a shower or having to wait for the tank to heat up.
Tankless water heaters tend to last longer than traditional water heaters, with an average lifespan of 20 years or more. This means fewer replacements and lower long-term costs.
Before purchasing a tankless water heater, consider the following factors:
Determine whether you want an electric or gas tankless water heater based on your home’s existing infrastructure and your personal preferences. Electric models tend to have lower upfront costs, while gas models typically provide higher flow rates.
Flow rate refers to the amount of hot water a tankless water heater can produce per minute (measured in gallons per minute or GPM). Temperature rise is the difference between the incoming water temperature and the desired output temperature. Consider your household’s hot water needs and choose a model that can accommodate those demands.
Tankless water heaters may have specific installation requirements, such as venting for gas models or adequate electrical supply for electric models. Consult a professional to ensure your home can accommodate the necessary installations.
When considering a tankless water heater, it’s important to weigh the costs and potential savings.
Tankless water heaters generally have higher upfront costs than traditional water heaters. Gas models, in particular, may require additional expenses for venting and gas line installations.
Though tankless water heaters may have higher upfront costs, they often have lower operating costs due to their energy efficiency. This can result in significant savings on your utility bills over time.
In addition to lower utility bills, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan, which can lead to savings on replacement costs. Furthermore, some utility companies and local governments offer rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient tankless water heaters, providing even more potential savings.
Like any appliance, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This includes descaling to remove mineral buildup, inspecting and cleaning the air intake and exhaust vents, and checking for leaks. It’s important to consult your owner’s manual and follow the recommended maintenance schedule.
Some well-known tankless water heater brands include Rinnai, Rheem, Navien, Noritz, and Stiebel Eltron. Research each brand’s offerings and read customer reviews to find the best fit for your needs.
While tankless water heaters heat water on-demand, there may still be a slight delay before hot water reaches your faucet. This is due to the time it takes for the cold water in the pipes to be replaced with hot water.
Yes, but the total flow rate of all fixtures must be within the capacity of the tankless water heater. If the demand exceeds the heater’s capacity, the water temperature may drop.
Calculate your home’s peak hot water demand by adding up the flow rates of all fixtures you may use simultaneously. Then, choose a tankless water heater with a capacity that can accommodate that demand.
It’s strongly recommended to have a professional install your tankless water heater to ensure proper installation and adherence to local building codes.
Tankless water heaters are generally more environmentally friendly than traditional water heaters due to their energy efficiency and reduced standby heat loss. By choosing a tankless water heater, you can lower your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future.
If you’re considering a tankless water heater for your home, contact Jilly Plumbing today. Our experienced professionals can help you determine the best tankless water heater for your needs and handle the installation process. Don’t miss out on the benefits of tankless water heaters call us or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
Our family has lived in the Hill Country for years, so we serve the community with the highest standard of quality work and professionalism. Our goal is always to meet your plumbing needs on time, within your budget, and with transparency. Contact us online today. Our local office is always just an email or a phone call away.
