Home owners have started to ditch those bulky, unreliable water tanks for tankless water heating systems. Tanks continuously heat a large amount of water and eventually empty out. Tankless systems heat water as it is needed, allowing you to have hot water on demand! After flushing the cold water from the pipes out of the faucet, tankless water heaters can provide an unending stream of hot water almost instantly. Tankless water heaters are often powered by natural gas, but electric models are gaining popularity. Here are some good reasons to go tankless! Ask your plumber if this is a good option for you.
#1: Lower Energy Costs
Although the initial cost is higher for the tankless system, studies have shown that they use 30 to 50% less energy than units with tanks, saving you about $100 or more per year, depending on water usage. Tank heaters continuously heat your water, expending energy and running up utility bills even when you aren’t home. A tankless system will only heat a small amount of water when you ask for it. This can cause a short wait for warm water, but it will remain warm without raising your costs.
#2: Longevity and Warranty
Tankless systems are lasting longer than their bulky counterparts, with an average age of 20 years before replacement is needed. Because of this, tankless heaters often come with longer warranties helping you save on costs and extending the value of the unit.
#3: Space Saving
Obviously, without the tank, these heaters take up much less space! This makes it easier to install and tuck away in an inconspicuous corner. These tanks are especially good for smaller homes where space is precious. Because there is no tank, some people have complained that the water from these systems does not stay hot enough when multiple people use water at once. If you use a lot of water in your home (especially at the same time) a tank will eventually run out of water. A tankless system allows everyone to get a hot shower as long as they are taken consecutively, not at the same time. This provides a more reliable system and no cold showers!
Contact your plumber for an estimate and to see if a tankless water heater is right for your home!