Are you considering installing a tankless water heater but don’t know whether it is the right choice for your home? Tankless water heaters offer an array of benefits, from an unlimited supply of hot water to long-term energy savings, that can make them an attractive option for homeowners.
In this article, We will learn about tankless water heaters to decide if one suits your home. Let’s jump in and discover the allure of a tankless water heater!
What is a Tankless Water Heater
Unlike traditional tank-style heaters, which store gallons of heated water constantly, tankless units only heat the water that you need.
Coldwater travels through the unit’s pipes and is heated using either electricity or gas when it exits. This allows you to avoid wasting energy by heating more than what’s necessary. The flow rate of these systems can also vary depending on the type and size of the unit, allowing you to meet specific demands such as filling a bathtub or running multiple washing machines at once.
Pros – The Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater
One of the greatest advantages of a tankless water heater is that you will never run out of hot water. With a traditional water heater, you are limited by the 40-gallon capacity; two showers in an hour can deplete that supply quickly. With a tankless system, however, you will have hot water on demand with no worries about running out.
1. Unlimited Supply of Hot Water
Tankless water heaters provide an unlimited supply of hot water, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water again. With a tankless heater, the water is heated on demand and as long as there’s a constant flow of cold water, the hot water will keep coming.
This means that no matter how many showers or washing machines are running at once, you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water again. Plus, because tankless heaters don’t need to store gallons of hot water in a tank like traditional models do, they take up much less space.
So if you’re looking for a more energy-efficient way to heat your home’s water supply and want an endless supply of hot water at all times, then a tankless model may be just what you need.
2. Instant Hot Water
Tankless water heaters provide an ideal solution for those seeking instant hot water. Unlike traditional hot water heaters that rely on a storage tank and a limited amount of hot water, tankless units provide a continuous supply of heated water on demand.
This means that you will never have to wait for the heated water to replenish itself. With electric models, an electrical current heats up coils filled with cold water, while gas versions use the heat from burning fuel to warm up the cold liquid in the pipes.
Tankless systems are more energy-efficient than their storage tank counterparts since they don’t require electricity or gas to constantly reheat and maintain hot water in the tank over time. With no bulky storage tanks taking up valuable space, homeowners have more freedom when deciding where to install their unit.
And with gallons per minute rates far surpassing those of conventional tank-style water heaters, you know that you’ll get all the hot water you need when you need it!
3. Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters last twice as long as traditional water heaters, providing a considerable advantage for homeowners. By opting for the tankless model, you can save yourself from the hassle of having to replace your water heater every ten years.
With the tankless model’s longer lifespan, you won’t have to worry about energy costs and will be able to enjoy hot water for an extended period of time. Plus, you won’t need to worry about installing electric wiring or running gas lines in order to keep your home warm.
4. Long-term Energy and Cost Savings
Tankless water heaters provide numerous benefits compared to traditional tank-style water heaters. One of the most significant benefits is long-term energy and cost savings.
Tank-style water heaters keep 40 to 50 gallons of hot water ready at all times. The constant reheating of this stored supply results in standby heat loss, which translates into wasted energy and money.
In contrast, a tankless unit only heats water on demand. Tankless water heaters can heat water with gas or electric coils for faucets, showers, and appliances.
5. Take Up Less Space
Tankless water heaters take up significantly less space than traditional tank-style water heaters. Tank heaters use up floor space and require a basement, while tankless models can be wall-mounted and save space.
This is great for homeowners with limited space or those that want to free up some of the precious real estate in their homes. Plus, if you ever move, it’s much easier to take a tankless unit with you compared to an old, bulky tank-style heater. You’ll save both time and money when relocating!
6. Special Financing and Tax Breaks
Tankless water heaters offer a number of advantages, including energy efficiency and cost savings. With the federal government offering a 10% tax credit on the overall cost of buying and installing a tankless hot water heater, now is the perfect time to upgrade your traditional storage tank heater.
This tax break applies to both traditional storage tank heaters that have earned Energy Star certification, as well as tankless models. On top of this, special financing options are available for qualified buyers. So you can install a brand new energy-efficient water heating system while keeping your budget in check.
Plus, with ongoing energy savings from an efficient system, you’ll recoup any costs associated with installation over time. So don’t miss out on this great opportunity to upgrade!
7. Tankless Water Heaters Eliminate “Standby Loss”
Tankless water heaters are a great option for people looking to save energy and money. By eliminating “standby loss,” tankless units reduce energy costs significantly. Traditional hot water heaters fire up repeatedly throughout the day to reheat the same amount of water in their tanks. This is wasteful and costly, as energy is being used even when no one is home.
Tankless models, on the other hand, provide hot water on demand without wasting any energy. This means that you won’t have to worry about your energy bills going through the roof! Furthermore, electric tankless water heaters can be installed quickly with minimal disruption by a professional plumber and they cost much less than traditional units upfront.
Not only that, but they provide an unlimited supply of hot water for washing machines and other appliances and often have a higher flow rate than tank-style water heaters. Therefore, not only do you save money on energy costs, but you can also enjoy access to hot water whenever you need it!
8. Never Run Out of Hot Water
Tankless systems provide an endless supply of warm and hot water when you need it. That means no more cold showers if someone has already taken a shower before you or if your dishwasher is running. Tankless heaters also come in both electric and gas-powered models, so they can be installed in virtually any home.
Overall, tankless water heaters are an excellent choice for anyone who wants an unlimited supply of hot water without sacrificing efficiency or incurring too much cost upfront.
With their ability to provide up to four gallons per minute while still being energy efficient and requiring minimal maintenance, they make sure that everyone in your household gets their fair share of hot showers – without ever running out!
9. Both Electric and Gas Models are Available
Tankless water heaters are a great option for those looking for an energy-efficient solution to their hot water needs. What’s even better is that they come in both electric and gas models, giving you the flexibility to choose the one that best suits your home.
With an electric tankless water heater, you don’t have to worry about rerouting gas lines or making costly alterations to your home’s electrical infrastructure. Plus, these units can provide hot water on demand without taking up too much space.
10. Tankless Heaters Offer Longer Warranties
Tankless water heaters offer homeowners an extended warranty that traditional tank-style heaters simply cannot match. This is due to their lengthy lifespan, which averages around 20 years. If any problems arise with the unit, the homeowner will not be responsible for covering any expenses relating to repairs or replacements.
The warranties offered on tankless systems can run up to 20 years, providing peace of mind and a much longer guarantee than that of a standard water heater. Not only does this mean fewer out-of-pocket costs in the long run, but it also ensures that the homeowner has access to reliable hot water on demand at all times.
Plus, many tankless systems are energy efficient and require little maintenance–allowing you to enjoy hot water whenever you need it without worrying about costly repairs or replacements.
11. Ideal for Smaller Homes With Minimal Hot Water Requirements
Tankless water heaters are ideal for smaller homes with minimal hot water requirements. These units are designed to reduce standby power loss and deliver sufficient hot water for individual, double, or triple usage in showers, laundry, and dishwashing.
Tankless water heaters are an excellent choice for those who have limited space in their homes and don’t require large amounts of hot water at one time. You’ll save money on your energy bill in the long run and get reliable access to hot water when you need it most!
12. Environmentally friendly
Tankless water heaters are the more environmentally friendly choice when it comes to water heating. This type of heater is more efficient at converting one unit of fuel into heat, ranging in efficiencies between 80 percent and 99 percent—much higher than traditional storage tank options, which range between 40 percent and 60 percent.
Switching to a tankless hot water system means you’ll be using significantly less fuel, reducing your environmental footprint. And because these systems provide hot water on demand, they save energy by not having to continuously reheat stored gallons of water as traditional storage tanks do.
So if you’re looking for an energy efficient way to reduce your environmental impact while still having access to hot water on demand, a tankless system is the way to go.
13. Remote Connection
Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular due to their energy-saving features, but with the modern convenience of being able to control your tankless water heater from anywhere using an app, the benefits have become even greater.
Now you can turn on your hot water before you even get home so that it is ready for you when you walk in the door. This means no more waiting for hot water to come through when taking a shower or filling up a bath.
Plus, with remote access, you can easily monitor usage and adjust settings as needed. With this level of convenience and energy savings, tankless water heaters are becoming the go-to choice for many homeowners.
14. Prevent Water Damage
Tankless water heaters are a great way to prevent potential water damage. Unlike their traditional tank-style counterparts, they don’t store hot water in a storage tank. This means that even if the unit rusts, it won’t leave you with a flooded basement or garage.
You won’t have to worry about potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars in water damage to your possessions. With regular maintenance and professional installation, you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your home safe from unwanted water damage.
So if you’re looking for an energy efficient and reliable way to heat your home’s water, consider investing in a tankless unit today!
15. Home Resale Value
Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular and in demand among homeowners. These on-demand heaters provide a host of benefits, one of them being their ability to increase a home’s resale value.
Installing a tankless water heater may not necessarily increase the value of your home, but it could make it more desirable to potential buyers. It is an attractive feature that will make your home stand out among others on the market and give you an edge over competitors when selling.
With their ability to provide hot water on demand with no wait time, faster flow rates, and higher temperatures available than traditional tanks -all without having to worry about running out of hot water- tankless water heaters offer unique benefits that can add real value to any home during resale.
16. Lower Risk of Burns and Exposure to Toxic Metals
Tankless water heaters are a great choice for those looking to maximize the safety and health of their home. Traditional hot water heaters contain a tank of heated water that can reach dangerously high temperatures, posing a risk of burns if touched or used incorrectly.
Over time, hard water minerals can build up in the tank, corroding it and exposing your family to potentially toxic metals. Tankless water heaters don’t have a tank which eliminates both of these risks; instead, they heat cold water on demand as it passes through the unit.
This provides more precise control over temperature and ensures that your family is only exposed to pure and safe drinking water. With no storage tanks to worry about, tankless units require no maintenance or repairs due to hard water buildup, making them a safer option for your home.
Cons — Disadvantages of a Tankless Water Heater
When considering the installation of a tankless water heater, you should be aware of the potential disadvantages that may arise. A tankless water heater is a more energy efficient option than traditional water heaters, but there are some cons that come with this type of system as well.
For starters, the initial cost of installing a tankless water heater can be quite expensive. Not only do you need to purchase the unit itself, but you will also require the services of a professional plumber and potentially additional equipment such as gas lines and a water softener.
The amount of hot water available at any one time is limited by the flow rate. The higher your flow rate, the faster your tankless heater will use up its source of hot water.
This means that if multiple appliances like washing machines or dishwashers are being used simultaneously, it will take longer for them to receive hot water from an electric model than from an electric or gas tank-style water heater.
And finally, although you can save money in energy costs over time with a tankless system, it is important to note that those savings may not be immediate due to the installation costs associated with switching from an electric or gas model.
Before making the decision to switch to a tankless system it is important to consider both the pros and cons in order to determine which option best suits your needs.
1.. More Expensive Than Traditional Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or electric tankless water heaters, are a great choice for those looking to save money on their energy bills. However, the initial cost of installation can be substantially higher than that of a traditional storage tank model.
This is because the installation of a tankless unit requires more time and effort from a plumber due to the complexity of reconfiguring your home’s existing pipes and ventilation system. Additionally, if you have an old storage tank hot water heater, there will be additional costs associated with its removal and disposal.
While it may seem like an expensive investment up front, in the long run, you’ll be saving money as tankless models use significantly less energy than their traditional counterparts—up to 40 percent in some cases!
2. Limited output and inconsistent temperatures
The biggest issue with tankless water heaters is their limited output and inconsistent temperatures. Depending on the flow rate of your appliances, the capacity of your water heater may be too small to provide hot water to multiple fixtures at once. Additionally, if the temperature is set too high, it can cause spotty heating.
The best way to avoid this issue is to size your tankless heater properly and set the temperature no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have several fixtures that require hot water simultaneously, consider installing several single-point or “point of use” systems in addition to your main tankless unit.
This will ensure that all of your appliances receive consistent hot water when they need it. Professional plumbers can help you determine the size and number of units necessary for your needs while also helping with installation costs.
3. Use A Water Softener or Higher Maintenance
If you have hard water, then a tankless system may require higher maintenance than traditional tank-style or electric hot water heaters. This includes regular inspections and maintenance every 12 months as well as changing the anode rods every two years.
These two factors will reduce any potential energy savings from having a tankless system, especially if you need to hire a plumber for these tasks. Therefore, in order to get the most out of a tankless system with hard water, we recommend installing a whole house water softener before investing in a tankless system.
4. Limited Hot Water Supply
Tankless water heaters are hailed for their energy-efficient design, as they only heat up water when it is needed. This eliminates the need to continuously keep a large tank of hot water on standby, resulting in lower energy costs. However, this does mean that there will be a limit to the amount of hot water available at any given time.
For households with multiple bathrooms and/or appliances that require hot water (such as washing machines), a tankless model may not be able to provide enough hot water to meet demand. In such cases, a traditional tank-style water heater may be more suitable, as it can store several gallons at once and provide hot water on demand.
5. Additional Equipment is Often Necessary
A tankless water heater is an energy-efficient alternative to traditional hot water heaters, with many advantages over its bulky counterparts. However, additional equipment is often necessary for a tankless heater to operate properly.
A water softener is usually required, as hard water can damage the unit’s internal components and reduce its lifespan. The extra equipment adds to the initial cost of installation and also negates the space-saving benefit of a tankless system, as the bulky softener (and bags of salt) will take up more space than a traditional water heater.
6. Rerouting Gas Lines
Tankless water heaters require a non-traditional setup, so installation costs can be higher than those of traditional tank-style water heaters.
A professional plumber or contractor may be required to make changes to the gas line or add additional venting, potentially increasing the total project cost. This is especially true for electric models, as they require more extensive wiring and plumbing considerations.
In short, although there may be an additional expense associated with installing a tankless water heater due to potentially needing to reroute gas lines or add new venting, this initial cost is sure to pay off in the end in terms of energy savings and convenience.
7. Could Take Years to Make Up for the Higher Price Tag
Tankless water heaters are a great investment for the long-term, but they come with a higher price tag than traditional hot water heaters. The initial cost is definitely more expensive, but the payoff comes in the form of energy savings and a longer lasting system.
Over time, these savings add up as your monthly bills decrease due to the efficiency of the tankless heater. While it could take many years to make up for the higher price tag, you can be sure it will happen given enough time and with proper maintenance.
8. Changing Water Usage Habits Could Save as Much Money as Going Tankless
With the rising cost of energy, many homeowners are looking for ways to save money while still enjoying hot water on demand. One option is a tankless water heater, which heats up water only when it’s needed and doesn’t require the use of a large storage tank. However, before investing in an expensive system like this, consider changing your family’s water usage habits first.
By taking shorter showers or turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth and washing dishes, you can significantly reduce your monthly water bill. Installing low-flow plumbing fixtures can also help reduce water waste – even more than a tankless system would!
Additionally, you may want to look into replacing old appliances that don’t have an energy-efficient rating with newer models that use less heated water overall.
9. Other Options Like Solar Heating are Available
Solar water heaters are gaining popularity across the nation and offer an even more efficient solution. Solar water heaters are powered by solar collectors and storage tanks, requiring no additional gas or electrical fittings.
Best of all, they can be used in any climate and actually recoup their installation costs more quickly than tankless systems because they do not rely on gas or electricity – only sunshine.
Whether you live in a warm climate or a colder one, solar water heating is an efficient and cost-effective way to get hot water without using too much energy. You may even save enough money over time to pay for the installation of a solar system!
10. Additional Maintenance is Possible
Tankless water heaters typically require less energy than traditional tank-style water heaters, resulting in lower monthly bills. However, to keep the warranty valid and the system running efficiently, it’s important to perform additional maintenance on a tankless unit.
This includes annual flushing of the system to prevent mineral build-up in the heater or water line. Homeowners may also need to run a water softener, depending on their local water supply.
While this could mean more money spent upfront for these services, it can also help ensure that any energy savings produced by the tankless heater remain intact for years to come—making it worthwhile in the long run.
If you’re considering a tankless heater, be sure to enlist the help of a professional plumber who can provide accurate estimates on installation costs and ongoing maintenance needs.
11. Standard Energy Star Water Heaters are Also Efficient
Standard Energy Star water heaters are not only efficient, but they are also incredibly cost-effective. With an initial cost that is lower than most electric or gas tankless models, homeowners can start seeing monthly savings right away, while still reaping all the benefits of a traditional hot water heater.
And because nearly all homes come already equipped to handle these types of water heaters, there are no additional expenses related to wiring or gas lines.
Plus, many Energy Star certified models qualify for tax credits and rebates. The combination of low upfront costs and monthly energy savings make this type of hot water heater a great choice for any homeowner looking to reduce their energy bills without sacrificing comfort.
12. Limited flow rate
When considering a tankless water heater, one of the most important factors to consider is the flow rate. Tankless systems are limited in how much hot water they can provide at once, typically no more than 3-5 gallons per minute.
This means that if you have multiple appliances needing hot water at the same time, such as washing machines and dishwashers, you may need to install separate point of use systems or opt for a traditional storage tank heater.
If your water softener requires a large amount of hot water to function properly, then a tankless system may not be able to meet your needs. It’s best to consult with a professional plumber before making any decisions about your hot water supply needs.
13. Power outage reliability
One of the drawbacks of these units is that they rely on electricity for their control panel, meaning they won’t work in an emergency if the power goes out. This means you won’t have access to hot water when it’s most needed.
For those who live in areas with frequent power outages, a traditional tank-style heater may be more reliable. It’s important to weigh both options carefully before investing in either type of heater for your home.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that tankless water heaters are a smart long-term investment for your home. They are more energy efficient than traditional hot water heaters, allowing you to save on energy costs over time.
Tankless systems provide you with an endless supply of hot water without the need for a large storage tank.
While electric models require a professional plumber and installation costs can be high, they offer fast flow rates and gallons per minute of hot water. If you have a washing machine or other appliance that requires high amounts of hot water, a tankless system may be the answer.
With energy savings and increased efficiency, choosing a tankless water heater is the right decision for your home’s future.
