Who doesn’t love a good hot shower? Whether you’re relaxing after a long day at work or getting ready to go out on the town with friends, there’s something about standing under a stream of hot water that just makes us feel better.
But while there’s nothing wrong with the old-fashioned water heater, it does have its drawbacks. For example, it uses up a lot of energy because it has to repeatedly keep heating the same amount of water. And if you live in an area with high energy costs, that can add up!
Moreover, if you have other people living in your home or frequent guests staying over, there’s always the chance that someone will forget to turn off their shower or bathtub—and then you’ll end up paying for their mistake.
That’s why tankless water heaters are so great: they don’t use any energy until someone turns on their shower or tub. The result? Less wasted energy and money!
But have you ever wondered how a tankless water heater works? What are the benefits of installing one in your home?
We’ve got you covered. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about tankless water heaters, how they can benefit your home, and some tankless water heater pros and cons.
So let’s find out.
What is a tankless water heater?
It’s like a hot water vending machine.
The tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater or instantaneous water heater, is a kind of water heating system that heats up your water, and when you need it, it pours out that hot water. It’s not like the old-fashioned storage tank where you will have to wait sometime for hot water to heat up before using it.
With the tankless model, there’s no waiting time—you just get the hot water as soon as you turn on the tap!
Tankless water heaters use either an electric heating element or a gas burner to heat the water as it rapidly passes through the unit. When a hot water faucet is turned on, cold water enters the tankless heater and is quickly heated to the desired temperature before being delivered to the faucet or shower.
Pros of Tankless Water Heater
When it comes to water heaters, the tankless kind is definitely the hot new thing.
But what makes them so great? You may be surprised by how many reasons there are.Â
Here are some benefits of tankless water heaters that will make you want to replace your old hot water heater with a new water heater as soon as possible:
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than tanked water heaters because they don’t constantly reheat the same amount of already used water. This means you can save a lot on your utility bills.
Unlimited Hot Water
Tankless water heaters give you endless hot water, unlike tanked ones, where you have to wait for them to refill before there’s enough hot water again. This is great if you have kids or pets who like taking baths or showers all at once!
Space Saving
Tankless water heaters are more compact than tanked ones, meaning tankless water heater installation can be done in smaller spaces, so you don’t need to stress about anything!
Longevity
Tankless water heaters last much longer than tanked ones—up to 4 times longer, in fact! That’s because no storage tank collects sediment and rust over time. And that means fewer tankless hot water heater maintenance and repairs for you!
Convenience
Tankless water heaters have a very low standby power usage, meaning they’re great for homes with solar panels or battery backup systems.
Reduced Risk of Water Damage
One of the biggest problems with traditional storage-tank water heaters is that they can overheat, resulting in damage to the home and its appliances. Tankless water heaters are designed to heat water as it flows through them, so they don’t have this problem.
Improved Water Quality
Overheating a storage-tank heater can also cause mineral buildups and scale formation on the heating elements, which can lead to unsanitary water conditions—not something you want to be drinking! Tankless units are designed to keep your water at a lower temperature than traditional storage tanks, so there isn’t as much risk of scale forming on heating elements or mineral buildup. This means you’ll get cleaner, better-tasting water from your tankless unit than you would from your old storage-tank model.
Customizable Temperature Control
Tankless water heaters give you the ability to set your own temperature preferences for your home’s hot water supply, so you can get exactly what you want no matter where in your house you need it.
Improved Water Quality
Tankless water heaters don’t use a tank, which means that they don’t use chlorine or other chemicals to keep the water safe from bacteria and other contaminants like chemical reactions would do in a traditional system. Instead, they use an electronic sensor that detects when there is not enough flow and automatically turns on to deliver more hot water when needed without adding anything extra besides yourself and whatever else is used for washing dishes or taking showers at any given moment!
Cons of Tankless Water Heater
The great thing about tankless water heaters is that they don’t have to be refilled with water.Â
The downside? They’re more expensive than traditional water heaters, and they also come with some drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of tankless water heaters:
Higher Upfront Cost
Tankless water heater installation Salt lake city is more expensive than traditional ones because they use electricity to heat the water. However, you’ll save money in the long run because you won’t need to replace your tank after every year as you would with a traditional heater.
Limited Flow Rate
Because of the way they work, tankless heaters can only provide hot water at certain times when there is enough pressure in your pipes for them to do so. This means that if you have low pressure in your pipes or if there aren’t many people using hot water at any given time, it could take longer for the tankless heater to get hot enough for someone to take a shower or wash dishes without waiting quite a bit longer than usual for those things to happen when compared with using one of these energy-efficient options instead!
Additional Installation Requirements
Tankless water heaters require a lot of extra work during installation. It’s not as simple as just hooking up a gas line and plugging it in like with a regular water heater—you have to ensure that the plumbing is set up correctly, or else you could end up with leaks or other problems. You also need to be aware of how much power your home can handle when installing a tankless water heater service because relying on too much electricity from an overworked circuit breaker could lead to damage or even fire!
Potential For Delayed Hot Water Delivery
Tankless water heaters are great for reducing energy costs (and therefore saving money), but they’re not always reliable when it comes to delivering hot water right away. When everyone in your house is trying to get ready at once, it might take several minutes before enough hot water comes out of the tap—which can cause some severe frustration if everyone is rushing around attempting to get ready at once!
Maintenance Requirements
Tankless water heaters don’t require regular tankless water heater maintenance service but have some ongoing maintenance requirements. For example, a tankless heater’s gas burner must be replaced every 10 years or so. The heat exchanger also needs to be cleaned periodically.
Choosing Between Tankless and Tank Water Heater
When you’re deciding between a tankless water heater and a standard tank water heater, there are many factors to consider.
Here’s a comparison chart that outlines the key differences between tankless water heaters vs. traditional tank-type water heaters:
Feature |
Tankless Water Heater |
Tank Water Heater |
Energy Efficiency |
More energy-efficient due to on-demand heating |
Less energy-efficient due to standby heat loss |
Hot Water Supply |
Provides endless hot water supply |
Limited hot water capacity based on tank size |
Space Requirement |
Compact size, ideal for small spaces |
Requires more space for the storage tank |
Lifespan |
Longer lifespan, up to 20+ years |
Typically lasts around 10-15 years |
Initial Cost |
Higher upfront cost due to advanced technology |
Lower initial cost, generally less expensive |
Installation Requirements |
May require upgrades to gas lines or electrical systems |
Fewer installation requirements |
Water Pressure |
Maintains consistent water pressure |
Pressure can decrease as the tank gets depleted |
Maintenance |
Periodic maintenance required (descaling, component check) |
Regular maintenance (flushing, anode replacement) |
Delay in Hot Water Delivery |
Brief delay before hot water reaches the faucet |
Immediate hot water delivery |
Sensitivity to Hard Water |
May require descaling to prevent mineral buildup |
Can accumulate sediment and require tank flushing |
Water Damage Risk |
Lower risk of tank leaks and water damage |
The potential risk of tank leaks and water damage |
Customizable Temperature Control |
Precise temperature control for different applications |
Temperature control limited to preset thermostat settings |
Suitability for Large households |
Multiple units may be required for simultaneous usage |
Adequate tank size required for high hot water demand |
Suitability for Small households |
Suitable for small households with low to moderate usage |
Adequate tank size required to meet hot water needs |
Factors To Consider Before Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation
When you’re looking to install a tankless hot water heater, it’s important to consider your options and the factors that may affect your purchasing decision.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind when deciding on a tankless hot water heater installation:
Hot Water Demand
Assess your household’s hot water demand. Tankless water heaters are typically suitable for low to moderate hot water usage. If you have a large household with high simultaneous hot water demands (multiple showers running at the same time, laundry, dishwasher, etc.), you may need to install multiple units or opt for a larger capacity unit to ensure an adequate supply of hot water.
Fuel Type
The most common fuel types for tankless water heaters are gas and propane, but electric models are also available. Before you buy a tankless water heater, make sure you know what type of fuel it uses so that you can make sure there is an outlet near enough for installation.
Flow Rate and Temperature Rise
While flow rate refers to how quickly your water heats up, temperature rise refers to how much heat will be applied at once. If you want hot water instantly, then look for a model with high flow rates and low-temperature rises. However, if you prefer more gradual heating, then choose one with lower flow rates and higher temperature rises.
Sizing and Capacity
Another factor you need to consider when thinking about how to install a tankless water heater is sizing your unit. This will determine the size of your new tankless water heater and is based on the number of individuals you live with and how many showers you take each day. Tankless water heaters are designed to heat up water as it passes through, so they don’t need as much storage capacity as traditional units. The amount of hot water your new unit can supply will depend on its size, but most homeowners find that they have more than enough hot water for their needs.
Installation Location
When choosing a location for your new tankless water heater, make sure there’s plenty of space around it for ventilation and maintenance. You’ll also want to ensure that your area has access to power lines so you can install an electrical outlet nearby.
Water Hardness
Consider the hardness of your water supply. Hard water contains high mineral content that can cause scaling and buildup in the tankless unit. If you have hard water, you may need to install a water softener or consider models with built-in scale prevention mechanisms.
Upfront Cost and Budget
Evaluate the upfront cost and your budget for purchasing and installing a tankless water heater. Although tankless units can be more expensive initially, they may provide long-term energy savings. Determine your budget and weigh the costs against the potential energy savings and benefits of a tankless system.
Installation and Maintenance
Tankless water heaters may have specific installation requirements and may need professional installation. Ensure you have access to qualified experts for tankless water heater Salt lake city, and consider ongoing maintenance for tankless water heater requirements to keep the unit running efficiently and prolong its lifespan.
Warranty and Support
Tankless water heaters have warranties that last anywhere from five to ten years (depending on which brand you buy), so make sure the one you choose has an appropriate length for your needs. Also, make sure it comes with good support after purchase—who knows when something might go wrong?
Tips for Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
Tankless water heaters are great but can be a pain to maintain. Here are 8 tips for getting the most out of your tankless water heater:
- Clean your tankless water heater with vinegar
- Replace the filter often
- Check the drain valve regularly
- Keep an eye on the pressure relief valve, too!
- Pay attention to the temperature and pressure relief valves, too!
- Check the pressure relief valve and make sure it’s not leaking (you can do this with a hose). If it’s leaking, replace it!
- Keep an eye on your energy consumption by checking the meter every month; if you notice a spike in usage over a few days, call a professional to check things out!
- Look for “tankless water heater service near me” and Have your plumber come out once every two years to give your tankless water heater an inspection and tune-up (that way, they can catch any water heater issues before they get too big!)
FAQs
If you’re looking for answers to your questions about tankless water heater installation, repair, and maintenance, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help you get through the process. Here are some of the most common questions homeowners in Salt Lake City have:
How do I know if I need a tankless water heater?
It depends. Are you tired of running out and filling up your hot water tank every time someone turns on the shower? Are you sick of spending hours waiting for your water to heat up when it’s cold outside? Do you want to save money on your utility bills? If so, then yes! You definitely need one.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
The installation process will vary from one home to another, but generally, it takes about two hours. Keep in mind that this only includes the time needed for the actual installation; if you have to repair or replace parts, that could add more time to your project.
Can I install a tankless water heater myself?
Yes! You just need to make sure that you have the tools and know-how necessary for safe installation. We recommend hiring an experienced plumber in Salt Lake City if you’re not sure about what needs to be done or if you’re worried about doing damage.
What makes a tankless water heater better than a traditional one?
Tankless water heaters have many benefits over traditional models. They don’t require much space because they don’t need to store hot water; they’re also easier to install because they don’t require ductwork or venting; they’re less expensive on average; they save money on energy costs by using only as much energy as you have at any given moment; and they last longer than traditional models due to their minimal moving parts (relatively speaking).
What should I do if my tankless water heater leaks?
This can happen if there are cracks in the pipes or connections. You’ll need to look for reliable tankless water heater services right away so the experts can fix any leaks before they cause serious damage to your home.
How do I know if my water heater needs to be replaced?
If you have an older electric or gas water heater that’s giving you trouble, it might be time to replace it. The first sign of trouble is usually an increase in your utility bill, but if you don’t pay attention to those details, it can be hard to know what’s causing the change in cost. If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your energy costs and think it might be related to your water heater, check out our guide for more details on how to determine whether or not you have to replace your water heater.
Ready to Install Tankless Water Heater? Call Mr. Expert Plumbing Today!
If you’re ready to install a tankless water heater, call Mr. Expert Plumbing today!
We know that the process of installing a tankless water heater can be daunting. That’s why we’ll take care of everything for you, from the initial consultation to the installation itself. At Mr. Expert Plumbing, our licensed and skilled technicians will help you determine what kind of tankless water heater is perfect for your home and budget; then, they’ll come out and do the plumbing work so you can enjoy your new system—no hassle!
Whether you’re replacing an old unit that has stopped working or are just looking to upgrade your current model, we have the expertise and experience required to get the plumbing job done right.Â
We are experts at:
– Tankless Water Heater Installation
– Gas Water Heater Repair
– Gas Water Heater Replacement
– Tankless Water Heater Repair
– Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
– Water Heater Replacement
Our certified professionals are ready to help you with any project, from installing a new toilet or sink to installing a Tankless Water Heater in Salt Lake City. We’re proud of our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and top-notch customer service.
Mr. Expert Plumbing also provides prompt service and quality workmanship at an affordable price. We are committed to serving our customers with honesty and integrity, which is why we offer an outstanding customer satisfaction guarantee on all our plumbing services.
If you’re ready to upgrade and need to choose between a tankless water heater vs tank, call us today at (801) 560-8207. We’ll be happy to help!