Whether you need to purchase a new water heater, or have heard about tankless water heaters and are wondering how they work – it’s important to know the ins and outs of tankless systems to see if they would be the right fit for you. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how tankless water heaters work, their benefits, and some important factors to consider when deciding on a new water heater for your home or business.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand or instantaneous water heater, is a type of water heating system that heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. Unlike traditional water heaters, which store and constantly heat a large amount of water in a tank, tankless water heaters heat water only when it is needed, making them an energy efficient choice
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Tankless water heaters use either gas or electricity to heat the water as it flows through the unit. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. The heating element then rapidly heats the water to the desired temperature before delivering it to the tap. Once the tap is turned off, the heating element stops and no more energy is used.
What Are The Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater?
There are several benefits to choosing a tankless water heater over a traditional one. These include:
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- Energy Efficiency: Since tankless water heaters only heat water as needed, they use less energy compared to traditional heaters that constantly keep a large tank of water heated.
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- Unlimited Hot Water: With a tankless water heater, you’ll never run out of hot water. This is because it heats water on demand instead of relying on a limited supply in a storage tank, eliminating emergencies that may arise when a traditional storage tank fails.
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- Space Saving: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional ones and can be mounted on a wall, saving valuable floor space. This is a great advantage to residents who may be living in cities like San Francisco, with typically less space available.
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- Longer Lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional ones, with an average lifespan of 20 years compared to 10-15 years for traditional ones.
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- Dependability: Tankless water heaters are known to be more dependable, given the fact that they don’t use a tank, which can leak. Having a tankless water heater generally means that you will deal with less maintenance and repair, based on the fact that there is no storage tank.
What Factors Should I Consider When Purchasing a Tankless Water Heater?
Before making a purchase, there are a few important factors you should consider:
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- Size and Capacity: It’s important to choose a tankless water heater that can meet your household’s hot water demands. Consider the number of people in your household and their hot water usage habits to determine the right size and capacity for your needs.
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- Energy Source: Tankless water heaters are available in gas or electric models. Gas models tend to be more energy-efficient but require a gas line, while electric models are easier to install but may use more energy.
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- Installation: While tankless water heaters are generally easy to install, it’s important to make sure you have the necessary space and connections for installation before making a purchase.
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- Cost: Tankless water heaters are initially more expensive compared to traditional ones, but their cost-saving benefits over time make them a worthwhile investment.
Hot water is a big part of your daily routine and which makes your hot water heater an important part of your home! Knowing how a tankless water heater works can help you make the right decision choosing between different types and brands.. Overall, a tankless water heater is a great choice if you are looking for a low-maintenance, energy efficient, space conscious option for your home or business.
