Tankless water heaters are the latest solutions when it comes to energy efficiency at home. Compared to the standard units, they don’t consume energy continuously even when not in use. Thus, whether you are installing a new water heater or replacing the current, it’s the best choice. With that said, here is all you need to know about Tankless water heaters and whether you need one:
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heaters or instantaneous water heaters are water heating systems that provide hot water instantly. Unlike the standard unit, it comes without a tank. As such, it’s more compact and energy-efficient. Also, due to the instant provision of hot water, it’s known as the on-demand water heater. With the ability to provide instant hot water, it’s not limited by the size of the tank like the standard units.
How They Work
How it works is very simple. To activate this system, open the hot water faucet for water to run. As a result of this, cold water from the mainline flows into the water heater and activates the heating mechanism. Whether it’s an electric or gas burner, the water in the pipes is heated intensely. And when it exits the system through the outlet, it leaves as hot water.
However, the appliance stops heating water when you close the tap. From this point, the appliance idles until another user opens the tap to allow cold water to flow.
Types of Tankless Water Heater
There are two main types of tankless water heaters- the gas burner and electric options. But even so, these two appliances work similarly except in the part of heating the water. When it comes to the gas burner, the cold water activates the burning of the gas that heats water in the tubes. The electric option on the other hand heats the water through an electric heater within the system.
While the major difference between the two is the heating mechanism. It’s important to consider the efficiency of the appliance plus energy-saving capabilities before choosing one. Often, the gas tankless water heaters are the cheapest, but only when the gas prices are lower. On the other hand, the electric options are energy efficient. But due to a higher cost of electricity, the gas option remains the best pick.
Advantages of Tankless Water Heater
Longer Warranties:
- Thanks to their long lifespan, the warranty is also lengthy. As such, you are covered longer by the warranty in case there’s a need for repairs.
Available in Two Options
- You can choose to use either the electric or gas option.
Constant Supply of Hot Water
- There’s no tank with this system, hence it supplies hot water constantly.
Energy-efficient
- Since it heats water when you need it, it prevents energy loss through idling. Unlike tank-style heaters which experience standby loss when using energy to maintain the water hot.
Space-saving
- They have a compact design that enables them to fit in small spaces.
Instant Hot Water
- There’s no waiting time when you need hot water, unlike standard units.
Replaceable Parts
- They are designed to be repaired in case a part fails. Unlike standard units which may require complete replacement.
Supply of Freshwater
- Water is instantly heated and supplied, therefore, it remains fresh.
Final Take
Back to the question, should you get the Tankless Water Heater? Yes, you need to get it. With all these benefits, it’s worth trying. Also, if you’ve been having a utility problem with the standard unit due to energy inefficiency, you need it. However, the only limitation is the upfront fee and installation.
Other than that, it can save you thousands of USD throughout its lifetime on the energy bill. Therefore, if you need help getting one, contact Flamingo Plumbing and Backflow. They’ll also help with the installation and consultation services if you need experts’ advice before buying it.
