Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular, as they are more energy-efficient than traditional storage water heaters. But what are tankless water heaters and are they worth the extra expense?
Tankless water heaters are also called on-demand or instantaneous water heaters. They don’t use a storage tank to hold hot water like traditional heaters. Instead, they heat water as it passes through a series of coils, providing hot water only when you need it.
There are several benefits of tankless water heaters:
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters are up to 34% more energy-efficient than traditional storage water heaters. This is because they only heat the water when you need it, instead of continuously heating and reheating stored water.
Endless Hot Water
Since tankless water heaters only heat water on demand, you’ll never run out of hot water. This is great for large families or homes with multiple bathrooms.
Space Savings
Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional storage water heaters, so they take up less space in your home.
Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more, whereas storage water heaters only last 10-15 years.
Downsides of Tankless Water Heaters
If you’re considering switching to a tankless water heater, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Initial Cost
Tankless water heaters have a higher initial cost than storage water heaters. However, the long-term savings on your energy bills can make up for this initial investment over time. This is a result of tankless water heaters being more energy-efficient than storage water heaters.
Water Pressure
Another downside of tankless water heaters is that they require a higher water pressure to function properly. This means that if your home has low water pressure, you may need to invest in a water pump to increase the pressure before installing a tankless water heater.
Flow Rate
Tankless water heaters have a flow rate of 2-5 gallons per minute. This means that they can’t supply enough hot water for multiple showers or appliances running at the same time. If you have a large family or often entertain guests, a storage water heater might be a better option for you.
Required Maintenance
Tankless water heaters require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent mineral build-up and corrosion. However, this is typically a simple and easy process that can be done by most homeowners.
Safety
Tankless water heaters have a slightly higher risk of leaks and bursts than storage water heaters. However, this risk can be minimized by having your unit professionally installed and regularly serviced.
Overall, tankless water heaters offer many benefits over traditional storage water heaters. If you’re looking for a more efficient and cost-effective way to heat your home’s water, a tankless water heater may be the right choice for you.
What are the most common problems with tankless water heaters?
The most common problem with tankless water heaters is that they can be inefficient if not properly sized for the home. Another common issue is that hard water can cause scale buildup, which can reduce the efficiency of the unit and lead to costly repairs. Finally, tankless water heaters have a slightly higher risk of leaks and bursts than storage water heaters. However, this risk can be minimized by having your unit professionally installed and regularly serviced.
If you’re considering a tankless water heater in Dallas for your home, it’s important to consult with a professional to ensure that it’s the right choice for you. A qualified contractor can help you select the right model and size for your home and needs, and can also provide expert installation and maintenance services. Contact a local plumbing contractor today to learn more about tankless water heaters and whether they’re right for you.
How much does a tankless water heater cost compared to a traditional one?
The initial cost of a tankless water heater is higher than that of a traditional storage-tank water heater, but it will typically last longer and be much more energy-efficient in the long run. You may be able to save up to 50% on your water heating costs by switching to a tankless unit.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive because they’re a more complex technology, and they require specialized installation. But if you’re looking for long-term savings and improved efficiency, a tankless water heater is the way to go.
Contact a local plumbing contractor today for more information on the costs and benefits of tankless water heaters.
Installation tips for a tankless water heater
If the tankless water heater is not installed properly, it will not function correctly and you won’t get the full benefits of this energy-saving appliance. Make sure to hire a qualified contractor who has experience with tankless water heater installation.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the installation process:
- The tankless water heater must be the right size for your home’s hot water needs. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to meet your demands. If it’s too large, you’ll end up paying for wasted energy.
- The location of the unit is important for both efficiency and safety reasons. It should be close to the point of use, such as an outside wall where the water lines come into your home.
- Make sure the contractor installs a properly sized gas line and electrical circuit. A tankless water heater requires more power than a traditional one, so an undersized circuit could cause problems.
- The venting for a tankless water heater must be done correctly. If it’s not, deadly carbon monoxide fumes could enter your home.
- Ask the contractor to show you how to operate the unit before they leave. Make sure you understand how to set the temperature and activate the unit.
- Regular maintenance is important for all water heaters, but it’s especially crucial for tankless units. descaling solution at least once a year to remove mineral buildup from the inside of the unit.
- If you have hard water, consider using a water softener in conjunction with your tankless water heater. This will extend the unit’s lifespan and improve its performance.
- Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before attempting to install or service your tankless water heater. Improper installation or servicing could void the warranty.
- Never use an unvented space heater or another type of open flame device in the same room as a tankless water heater. The risk of fire is just too great.
- If you’re not comfortable working with gas lines or electrical wiring, hire a professional to install your tankless water heater. It’s not worth risking your safety to save a few dollars.
