Traditional water heaters store and heat water in a tank. Tankless or on-demand water heaters don’t store hot water but rather heat the water as needed. While tankless water heaters aren’t a new invention, there have been many innovations since their original designs. Those improvements have made them one of the hottest trends in home improvement. Let’s explore some common questions homeowners have about switching to a tankless system.
Is a Tankless Water Heater More Expensive?
Yes. The equipment costs are higher because on-demand water heaters are more intricate than traditional ones. The installation costs are higher as well because installation is more complex. When switching over, there can also be conversion costs, such as plumbing and electrical panel upgrades.
On the other hand, tankless water heaters have longer lifespans and are more energy efficient. That means you’ll pay less each month, and the total cost of ownership will typically be lower. Also, rebates and tax credits can help offset your initial investment. This is true of some tank systems, too, but those offers usually require you to purchase a high-efficiency unit. The cost difference between a tankless and a high-efficiency traditional water heater is much smaller.
How Much More Efficient Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Tank water heaters use electricity or natural gas several times a day to keep your water supply hot, whether you are using it or not. On-demand water heaters are inherently more efficient because they use energy to heat water only when you need it. However, when compared to traditional water heaters, the tankless variety tends to be more efficient for smaller households. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that a tankless water heater reduces energy consumption by between 8% and 34%. Homes that use 41 gallons of hot water daily will be closer to the top end of that range. Households that use 86 gallons will be closer to the low end.
Do Gas-Fired Tankless Water Heaters Require Electricity?
Yes. Most modern fuel-fired water heaters require an electrical connection. These systems need power for displays and electronic control boards. On-demand water heaters also require power for the ignition system, which is why an electrical panel upgrade is sometimes necessary. It’s worth noting that the need for electricity is not exclusive to tankless systems. Many modern gas tank water heaters, including all high-efficiency models, now have electronic ignition systems as well.
How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?
Traditional water heaters last between eight and 12 years. The tank degrading over time is the major hurdle in achieving longer lifespans. On-demand systems don’t have a tank and can last between 15 and 25 years. You’ll see this expectation reflected in the length and scope of warranties that come with tankless systems. There are even some models on the market that come with a 25-year warranty. Note that achieving these longer lifespans does require vigilant water heater maintenance.
How Much Maintenance Does a Tankless System Require?
Tankless systems require less maintenance overall than tank water heaters. However, you should have them inspected yearly. A reputable plumber can perform any needed maintenance and, if applicable, recommend preventive repairs. Typically, they will need to flush and drain the system. Depending on your water hardness, they may also need to descale it. A professional will perform other tasks, too, such as changing the filter, tightening loose electrical connections, and fine-tuning the system for optimal efficiency.
How Big a Concern Is Hard Water?
Hard water has high levels of calcium and magnesium, which build up as limescale. Limescale is a big concern for tankless water heaters. Hard water decreases energy efficiency and increases operating costs. It can also substantially reduce a water heater’s lifespan. If you have moderately hard water, professionals strongly encourage scheduling annual descaling.
If you have hard to very hard water, an on-demand water heater may need additional equipment to operate effectively. A whole-home water softener will remove hard minerals from your home’s water supply and increase the lifetime of your appliances, fixtures, and plumbing.
What Is a Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater?
Point-of-use (POU) tankless water heaters are small-scale systems for specific fixtures and appliances. Plumbers often install these for showers, under-sink installations, and outdoor kitchens. They can help overcome some of the limitations of tankless water heaters in larger homes.
Can You Install a Tankless System in a Larger Home?
Yes, you absolutely can, but there are some considerations. The larger the home, the more difficult it is to find an ideal installation location for a single tankless system. At the very least, you’ll want to opt for a system with a recirculation pump and a compact storage tank. In some cases, it may be better to install multiple tankless water heaters throughout the home. This approach provides better performance and will typically save you money in the long term. On the downside, it will significantly increase your initial costs.
Is the Hot Water Delay Longer?
Due to the nature of their design, tankless systems deliver hot water to your fixtures a bit slower than traditional water heaters. In larger homes, the distance between the fixture and the water heater can slow things down even more. If your plumber has properly sized the system, it generally won’t affect your quality of life. Opting for a recirculation pump and a compact storage tank can help to reduce the time as well.
What Is the Cold-Water Sandwich Effect?
The cold-water sandwich effect is a downside of on-demand water heaters. It occurs when a burst of cold water interrupts the stream of hot water for a few moments. This issue is most problematic when you first get in the shower. One option is to wait a bit before getting in. A storage tank or recirculation pump is another solution. You can also install POU tankless water heaters for your showers.
Where Can You Install a Tankless Water Heater?
You can install your on-demand water heater practically anywhere in your home. It won’t need a dedicated water heater closet and requires just a small space on a wall. You can easily install it in a garage or attic. Outside installations are an option, too. Installing the unit outdoors will add to your maintenance requirements but can make the initial conversion easier and less expensive.
How Much Flow Rate Do You Need?
You need enough flow rate to meet your peak demand, including all of the fixtures and appliances you’ll run simultaneously. Sizing a tankless water heater system can be tricky, and if you get it wrong, there will be a lot of headaches. This is why it’s essential to hire an experienced plumber. Your plumber will also account for temperature rise, which is the difference between your groundwater and target hot water temperatures.
Contact the Local Experts
At Woodward Heating Air Plumbing, we have been serving the residents of Salem, OR and the surrounding areas since 1989. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we provide indoor air quality, plumbing, and water treatment services.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable team members regarding water heater repair or replacement.
