6 Reasons to Make the Switch to a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are “in,” with many claiming that they are the most efficient water heaters on the market. But that efficiency does not come cheap–They are two times the cost of traditional water heaters, speaking generally. Installation is also expensive. Tankless water heaters require special circuitry or piping and venting depending on the model. With all of this upfront cost in consideration, what is all the hype about? Not only are tankless water heaters highly efficient, able to pay for themselves within a matter of years and prevent significant expenditures down the road, but they are also convenient, providing unlimited hot water and taking up very little storage space.

1. Unlimited Hot Water

Traditional water heaters keep a storage tank of hot water on hand for the moment it is needed. Tankless water heaters heat water in the moment it is needed. When the hot water tap is turned on, cold water runs through either an electric element or a gas burner, delivering hot water to the tap instantaneously. This allows tankless water heaters to provide a constant supply of hot water. Whereas traditional water heaters run out after the tank is emptied, tankless water heaters keep going, and going, and going… However, tankless water heaters can only provide so many gallons per minute. Be sure to purchase a tankless water heater with enough flow capacity for your home.

2. Energy Efficient

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, delivered via a tankless water heater, can experience 24-34% more energy efficiency than homes using traditional water heaters. Traditional water heaters waste energy keeping water hot and stored in the tank when the tap is not running. This is called “standby heat loss.” Tankless water heaters only need enough energy to heat the water necessary in the moment.

3. Take Up Less Space

Tankless water heaters can be mounted on a wall, indoors or out, rather than taking up valuable indoor floor space with a large tank. Smaller models can even be mounted in cabinets or a closet.

4. Longer Lasting

Whereas traditional water heaters last from 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last from 15-20, lasting an extra 5 to 10 years more than their counterparts. That being said, hard water can wreak havoc on tankless water heaters, decreasing their lifespan. If you live in an area with hard water, be sure to talk to a local, HVAC technician about what might be best for you.

5. No Possibility of Home Flooding

Traditional water heaters pose the risk of a tank leak or burst, causing home flooding. By name, tankless water heaters have no tank, eliminating this risk. Water damage can be costly, so this has the potential to be an area of big cost savings for homeowners.

6. Increased Property Value

There are two primary reasons why buyers prefer homes with tankless water heaters, and sellers can charge more: #1 The heating bill will be less. Homeowners that use tankless water heaters can save $100+ per year. #2 The water heater will last longer, meaning more time until the next purchase and installation cost.

Tankless water heaters may be expensive at first, but their convenience and future cost-savings can far outweigh the upfront costs. Tankless or traditional–Which would you choose? For a professional opinion custom-tailored to fit your home, consult an expert HVAC company.