Have you ever run out of hot water in the middle of a shower or while doing laundry? It can be frustrating, especially if you have a large household.
Traditional water heaters with tanks can only hold so much hot water at once, leading to the need for constant reheating and potential shortages. This is where tankless water heaters come in.
What are Tankless Water Heaters?
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instant water heaters, heat water as it passes through the unit instead of storing it in a large tank.
They use either electricity or gas and only do so when hot water is needed. This means that there is no need for a storage tank, making them more compact and efficient.
The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
Endless Supply of Hot Water
With a traditional water heater, you have to wait for the tank to fill up with hot water before it can be used. This means that if you use up all the hot water, you have to wait for it to heat up again. With a tankless water heater, there is no need to worry about running out of hot water. As long as there is a supply of cold water, the unit will continue to heat it. This is particularly beneficial for large households with high hot water demands.
Energy Efficiency
Since tankless water heaters only heat water as it passes through, they are much more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters. This is because there is no standby loss, which refers to the energy wasted in keeping a large tank of water hot at all times. Tankless water heaters also have a longer lifespan, which means they will save you money in the long run on replacement and maintenance costs.
Space-Saving Design
Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional water heaters with tanks. They can be installed on walls, under cabinets, or in other tight spaces, making them a great option for homes with limited space. This also means that they do not take up valuable living space, which is a huge benefit for smaller homes or apartments.
Better Water Quality
Since tankless water heaters do not store water, there is no risk of rust or corrosion. This means that your hot water will always be clean and free from any contaminants that may build up in a traditional water heater tank over time.
Cost Savings
In addition to energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs, tankless water heaters can also provide significant cost savings on your monthly utility bills. This is because they only use energy when hot water is needed, rather than constantly using energy to keep a large tank of water heated.
The Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters
While tankless water heaters have many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making the switch.
Initial Cost
One of the main drawbacks of tankless water heaters is their initial cost. They can be significantly more expensive to purchase and install compared to traditional water heaters with tanks. However, as mentioned before, they can provide long-term cost savings through energy efficiency and maintenance costs.
Limited Hot Water Output
Another potential disadvantage of tankless water heaters is their limited hot water output. Depending on the size and model, they may struggle to keep up with the demands of multiple hot water sources at once. This can be a problem for larger households or homes with high hot water usage.
Required Upgrades
Switching to a tankless water heater may also require upgrades to your home’s existing plumbing and electrical systems. This can add to the initial cost of installation.
Overall, tankless water heaters are more energy efficient, have lower maintenance costs, and provide better water quality. However, they also come with a higher initial cost and may struggle to keep up with high hot water demands.
Consider your household’s needs and budget when deciding if a tankless water heater is the right choice for you. Get in touch with our team here at Rick’s Plumbing today for a consultation on the best water heater options for your home.