What are tankless water heaters?
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instant water heaters, are devices that provide hot water only when it is needed, without the use of a storage tank. This means that they do not store hot water like traditional water heaters do. Tankless water heaters heat the water directly as it flows through the unit, providing a continuous supply of hot water.
Energy efficiency of tankless water heaters
Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters because they only heat water when you need it, unlike storage water heaters that continuously heat and reheat water. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be up to 34-40% more energy-efficient for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. This can result in substantial energy savings over time, reducing your utility bills and decreasing your environmental impact. Additionally, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, further adding to their energy efficiency.
Space-saving benefits
Tankless water heaters are a space-saving option for homeowners. Unlike traditional water heaters that require a large tank, tankless water heaters are compact and can be mounted on the wall, freeing up valuable floor space in your home. This is especially advantageous for those with limited space or who want to maximize the use of their available square footage.
Endless hot water supply
Tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water by heating water on demand, as opposed to traditional water heaters that store and heat a limited amount of water. This means that you won't run out of hot water, even if multiple appliances or showers are being used at the same time. It's a convenient and efficient way to ensure a consistent hot water supply for your household needs.
Longevity and low maintenance
Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan compared to traditional water heaters, as they can last up to 20 years. They also require less maintenance, with periodic flushing and descaling recommended to maintain optimal performance. This makes them a durable and low-maintenance option for providing hot water in your home.
Cost-saving advantages
Tankless water heaters can save you money in the long run. Even though they may have a higher upfront cost, they consume less energy, resulting in lower utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy-efficient for homes that consume 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. This can translate to savings of about $100 or more annually on your energy bills. Furthermore, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, which can also save you money in the long term.
Environmental impact
Tankless water heaters are known for their energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Unlike traditional storage tanks, tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed, avoiding the continuous energy consumption of keeping a large tank of water hot. This results in reduced energy usage and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional tank water heaters, reducing the amount of materials and resources needed for replacements. Furthermore, they take up less space and are often made with recyclable parts, contributing to their eco-friendly profile.
Installation flexibility
Tankless water heaters are smaller and can be installed in unconventional spaces, such as closets or crawl spaces. Given their compact size and wall-mountable design, tankless water heaters offer more installation flexibility than traditional water heaters. This can be particularly advantageous for homeowners with limited space or who want to free up floor space for other purposes.
Considerations for choosing a tankless water heater
When choosing a tankless water heater, it's important to consider factors such as the size of your home, your hot water usage, and the electrical or gas supply available. Some important considerations include:
Hot water usage: Determine the peak hot water demand in your home to select the appropriate size of the tankless water heater.
Electrical or gas supply: Consider the availability of electrical and gas connections in your home to determine the type of tankless water heater suitable for installation.
Energy efficiency: Tankless water heaters can be more energy-efficient than traditional tank water heaters, leading to potential cost savings over time.
Installation costs: While tankless water heaters may have higher upfront costs, they can offer long-term savings and provide unlimited hot water on demand.
Keep these considerations in mind to choose the best tankless water heater for your home.