The freezing temperatures in the winters are bearable, thanks to the heating systems in our homes. And the morning shower is tolerable only because of the constant supply of hot water from the water heater.
Previously, the only option one had was to install a water heater system with a tank. It is still a reliable water heating source in a lot of residential as well as commercial settings. Over the last few decades, a tankless water heater system is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional systems. The immense popularity seems unstoppable, more and more people are opting for gas or electric tankless water heater and there are pretty good reasons for that.
Let us begin with a brief introduction to what a tankless instantaneous water heater system is. It is then followed by five good reasons to choose this system for your home.
What Is A Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater only provides hot water as needed. As the name suggests, it does not have a tank to store hot water. Instead of heating a specific quantity of water and storing it in a tank, it provides instant heat to the water flowing through the pipes.
When a hot water tap is turned on, the water travels through the pipes, the instantaneous water heating mechanism is turned on. One can set the temperature of the water using a thermostat knob.
Although there are other fuel options for tankless water heater systems, the most efficient and reliable system is fueled by gas. Typically, a tankless heater provides hot water at a rate of 2–5 gallons (7.6–15.2 liters) per minute.
What Is Tankless Water Heater A Better Option?
Despite it having a few limitations, an electric tankless water heater is a far better option than other systems. Here is why.
-
Energy Efficient
The most important advantage of installing a tankless or demand-type water heater is its energy efficiency. According to the US Department of Energy “For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy-efficient than conventional storage-tank water heaters. They can be 8%–14% more energy efficient for homes that use a lot of hot water — around 86 gallons per day. You can achieve even greater energy savings of 27%–50% if you install a demand water heater at each hot water outlet.”
Moreover, tankless systems have earned an Energy Star approval rating by meeting intense energy efficiency guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
-
Save Money
When you opt for a demand-type water heating system, energy efficiency is only one part of saving money. A standard heater is running all the time and hence increasing your energy bills constantly. Tankless water heaters can avoid the standby heat losses associated with storage water heaters.
The low operating cost of this system makes it a great option for homeowners looking to save money on their energy bills. If you choose electric tankless heaters over the traditional tanked water heater, you can save an average of $44 every year. If you have a large family, you can easily multiply that! That adds up year after year to a lot of money saved.
Additionally, the credit amount for gas, oil, propane tankless water heaters is $300. If your electric water heater has an energy factor of 2 or above, you get credit amount on your tax.
-
Ease Of Installation
Another important reason to choose a tankless heating system for hot water supply is its ease of installation. With a little expertise and the right tools on your hand, you can install one on your own. Finding a reliable plumber is also very easy. Make sure you verify the legal compliance of the professional before hiring them for installation.
A tankless system often requires much less space as compared to traditional systems. As it has not designed to store a water heater, it can be a lot smaller. It can be mounted to a wall to maximize the usable space in your home.
-
Virtually Unlimited Supply Of Hot Water
When you are using a demand-type water heater, you will not have to wait for the water to get hot enough. As soon as you open the hot water tap, the supply of hot water begins and as long as you are using that one single tap, there will be an unlimited supply. After all, nobody likes an accidental cold shower.
The heating device of a water heater is a coil pipe and if the power supply is uninterrupted, it will keep providing you the comforting hot water.
If you are concerned about the output limits of these systems, you can install different units on different water outlets.
-
Extended Lifespan
One of the least celebrated benefits of a tankless system is its extended life span. On average it can last for about 20 years. With minimal maintenance from your side, it can last for about two decades providing you an energy-efficient water heating alternative.
They have easily available replaceable parts that can add years to their lifespan. Although the initial cost of the installation is higher as compared to the traditional systems, it is a cost-efficient system in the long run.
Is A Tankless Water Heater Right For You?
The final decision should only be made after consultation with a certified plumbing contractor. If any or all of the following things apply to you, go for it.
- You need to increase the energy efficiency of your home to minimize the carbon footprint.
- You are not concerned about the upfront cash as you have but are more focused on long term savings.
- If you use less than 40-50 gallons of hot water daily and are looking to add some credit to your next tax return.
Unless you need more than 50 gallons of hot water on daily basis, a tankless water heater is a reliable option.
