Tankless water heaters have become more and more popular in recent years. Many households are switching from tank heaters to tankless models because of the many benefits they offer. Chances are, if you’re on the market for a new water heater, you’ve heard of them. So, what’s all the rage? This post looks at the pros and cons of tankless water heaters.
How do tankless heaters work?
As the name suggests, tankless heaters don’t use a tank to store water. Instead, a heating element quickly heats the water as it passes through. This heats water on demand, eliminating the wait time involved. No more waiting for your shower to heat up!
Benefits of tankless heaters
There are many benefits to using a tankless water heater in your home. Some of these include:
Saves space
Just as their name suggests, these heaters don’t need a reservoir to heat the water. The heating element comes in handy to warm the water passing through. As such, it eliminates the need for large water tanks that eat up significant space in your home. This also allows you to install the heater in confined spaces.
Saves energy and money
Tankless heaters are more energy-efficient than storage tank water heaters. They only heat the water when needed instead of keeping a tank of hot water at all times. As a result, you can save a lot of money on your energy bills because the heater isn’t constantly running.
Lasts longer
Since tankless heaters don’t have to contend with the regular wear and tear that comes with heating large quantities of water, they spend less time running than a tank water heater, allowing them to have a longer lifespan.
Non-stop water on-demand
One of the best things about tankless heaters is that you get instant hot water. This means that you’re not left waiting for your shower to warm up because someone else used up all the hot water before you. You can have instant access to hot water whenever you need it.
Saves time
Tankless water heaters also save you time. As soon as you turn on the faucet, the heated water is available instantly. You don’t have to wait for the tank to fill up with hot water before you can use it.
You can use natural gas or an electric power source
Tankless heaters come in both gas and electric models. This enables you to decide what best suits your needs and preferences-electric tankless water heater or tankless gas water heater.
Drawbacks of tankless water heaters
As impressive as these devices sound, there are a few drawbacks to using a tankless water heater in your home. These include:
They require more maintenance
Since there’s no tank to store water, you must keep a close eye on the system and ensure no blockage in the piping. If not appropriately maintained, tankless heaters can be less efficient and might even stop working altogether.
They’re more expensive to install
Tankless water heaters are often more expensive to install than traditional water heaters. The installation process can be more complicated, and you might need to upgrade your home’s plumbing system to support it.
Limited hot water supply
Tankless heaters usually have a limited heated water supply. This means that you might not be able to take a shower and run the dishwasher simultaneously.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Tankless water heaters tend to cost more than conventional ones with a tank. However, when you consider the potential for long-term savings on energy costs, and the fact that they tend to last longer, it may be a smart choice for you. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your home.
How long will a tankless water heater last?
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 15- 20 years. However, this can vary depending on the brand and model you choose. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your tankless water heater lasts as long as possible.
Should I get a tankless water heater or the traditional model?
The decision ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for long-term savings on your energy bills, a tankless water heater is a way to go. However, if you have a large household with lots of people using hot water simultaneously, then a traditional water heater might be a better fit.
We Offer Professional Tankless Water Heater Installation!
If you are thinking of upgrading your water heater to a tankless model, we have the expertise and tools to guarantee a seamless installation process. John’s Plumbing and Pumps boast 60 years of experience in the industry, so rest assured we know what we’re doing. Call us today for more information on tankless heaters, as well as installation, repairs, and maintenance!
FAQ
Does a tankless water heater increase electric bills?
Tankless water heaters use less energy than traditional tank-type water heaters, so you may see a decrease in your electric bill. Savings vary depending on the brand and model of the tankless water heater you choose.
Can I install a tankless water heater myself?
Tankless heaters can be tricky to install; it’s best to leave the job to a professional to make sure the installation is done properly. This ensures that your new heater is available for use as soon as possible, and working as intended.
Do tankless water heaters save money?
Tankless water heaters do typically save homeowners money on their energy bills. These incremental savings can add up over time, resulting in significant cost savings.