Worth the Hype?
Tankless water heaters have been the subject of much home improvement buzz lately. But are they worth the hype? These on-demand water heaters heat water instantly and eliminate the need for a large storage tank. Furthermore, they vastly reduce the standby energy losses associated with continually maintaining a tank full of hot water. Additionally, most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of around 20 years which is much longer than conventional models. This all sounds great, right? We’ve listed all the information including advantages and disadvantages of tankless water heaters.
The Basics
So, there are primarily two types of tankless water heaters: smaller units installed at the point of use, and larger units designed to serve the entire house. Smaller elements are energy efficient in that they reduce heat loss through excess piping. However, with the point of service units, multiples are needed to provide for the whole house. These are also useful for supplementing a regular sized water heater. Whole-house units offer hot water for multiple points from a singular source. To capitalize on optimal energy efficiency, we recommend insulating all pipes in which the hot water travels.
Gas or Electric
The next decision for consideration is whether you want to install an electric or gas tankless water heater. Not all existing homes are adequately equipped for a whole house tankless water heater. So, in addition to the unit cost, you must upgrade your electrical system. Electric tankless heaters are as much as 99 percent efficient. Natural gas tankless water heaters are about 23 percent more efficient than a traditional storage version, according to the Department of Energy. Plus they may qualify for government tax incentives.
Overall Advantages
Tankless water heaters are compact, and take up less space than conventional water heaters.
Elimination of standby losses, meaning when the water cools down while sitting in the tank or pipes, then has to run to get to allow access to hot water.
Because tankless models provide hot water on-demand they use less water. You will never need to let the water run to wait for it to get hot.
They eliminate the risk of tank leaks and water damage.
The expected life of tankless water heaters is 20 years, which is almost double that of a conventional heater.
Tankless water heaters may be able to cut your water heating energy costs by 10-15%.
It provides up to around 5 gallons of hot water a minute.
Possible Disadvantages
May not be able to supply adequate hot water simultaneously, such as for showers and laundry and dishwasher.
May need to upgrade electrical system to handle the energy draw for an electrical unit.
Natural gas devices must be vented outdoors with either a direct vent or exhaust flue.
The initial investment is a bit higher (but they last longer, so saves on repair or replacement costs).
So, are tankless water heaters better?
There are indeed advantages to going tankless. These heaters not only save space with a compact design, but they are also better for the environment because a rusty tank doesn’t end up in the landfill. That fact combined with their energy efficiency make tankless water heaters the greener choice. Do you still have questions as to what is the best model for your needs? Contact Creative Spaces today. Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you in making the most informed decision possible. Furthermore, our expert contractors will ensure a seamless professional installation. For any maintenance or servicing you might need on your tankless water heater, there are now plenty of plumbers such as Schuelke Plumbing who specialise in these products as well as any other plumbing needs you might have, for example they use videoleak technology to locate and diagnose various household leaks.