One option that homeowners aren’t aware of when planning a home upgrade is switching to a tankless water heater. The very idea can be confusing, as most people think of water heaters as being large, bulky tanks usually stowed away in a closet or basement in the home.
Learning about the other options available, so that homeowners can make an educated decision about which one may be the best for them, can save money, time, and frustration. In this article, plumbing experts share information about tankless water heaters and how homeowners can take advantage of them today.
What Exactly Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heaters are also commonly called instant or on-demand water heaters. They are much smaller than traditional water heaters because, instead of storing up 50 gallons of extra water already heated up and ready to go, tankless water heaters pull water directly from the pipes. They heat it as it travels through the water heater. The heating element, much like a traditional water heater, can be either electricity or gas.
Generally, tankless water heaters can provide anywhere between 2 and 5 gallons of hot water every minute.
The Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters have both pros and cons. Homeowners should know them to decide whether they are the right choice for their home.
Pros:
- No risk of tank explosions
- Heat water only when it’s needed
- Longer lifespan
- More reliable/less risk of leaking and water damage
- Provide a continuous hot water supply
- Energy-efficient so they save money (up to 50% less energy usage than a traditional water heater)
Cons:
- Expensive to install
- Takes longer to deliver hot water where it’s needed
- Can’t use water during a power outage
- Can be inconsistent when water is being used in multiple places
For many homeowners, looking at the pros and cons makes it extremely obvious if their home would benefit from a tankless water heater over a traditional water heater.
Is a Tankless Water Heater the Right Choice?
Truly, any home can benefit from choosing a tankless water heater. However, they are especially useful for families or households with a lot of people, as more than one can be installed in a home. They’re also great for homes with a smaller amount of space for the water heater, as they take up far less space.
However, tankless water heaters are not a great option for homes located in areas that may have frequent storms or power outages. As they can not be used without power, extended power outages also mean an extended time without water. That can be a deal-breaker for a lot of people.
It is an incredibly energy-efficient and money-saving system, though, so financially savvy homeowners will likely appreciate installing one instead of the more expensive traditional water heaters. It’s possible to save up to a few hundred dollars a year.
About First Choice Plumbing Solutions
First Choice Plumbing Solutions is located in Gainesville, Florida. They offer same-day leak detection by their expertly trained technicians and answer all of their phone calls live 24/7. Additionally, their expert staff can help homeowners with all their water heater needs, including upgrading to tankless units.
