Tankless water heaters are gaining in popularity because of the many benefits they can offer. Many property owners, both residential and commercial, have already made the switch to tankless water heating. In 2017, tankless water heater sales in the United States had amounted to 451 million U.S. dollars, according to Statista.
Are you ready to replace your old water heater and join the tankless water heater trend? Before you install a tankless or demand-type water heater in your home, here are a few things you have to consider.
Initial Cost
What is your budget for a new water heater purchase? Answering this question will let you know whether or not you are ready to invest in a tankless water heater. According to Consumer Reports, tankless water heaters tend to cost more up front than storage tank models, with prices that range from $525 to $1,150. While the initial cost can be more expensive, the durability and longer life span of a tankless water heater can save you more money in the long run.
Location
Plumbing experts say that ventilation and clearance are the two things that restrict the placement of a tankless water heater. To function properly, you should install your tankless unit in a location that is not only spacious but also has vents for maximum flow of air. Compared to the conventional storage tank water heater, a tankless unit takes less space and is easier to install.
Size
Size is a very important consideration when choosing a tankless model for your home. To size a tankless water heater, you need to determine the flow rate and the temperature rise you’ll need for its application in your home, according to the United States Department of Energy. Before you purchase a water heater, make sure it is the correct unit size. Otherwise, it will fail to meet your household’s hot water needs and contribute to wasted energy in your home.
Energy Saving
A new heater should help you save energy at home and not the other way around. One of the primary benefits of tankless water heaters is that they are energy-efficient. A tankless system lets you enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water without worrying about high energy bills at the end of the month. The United States Department of Energy claims that if you install a demand water heater at each hot water outlet, you can achieve even greater energy savings of 27%–50%.
Repairs
A water heater breakdown in the middle of winter is the last thing you want to happen. Thus, you have to choose a water heater model that can operate for years with fewer complications. Unlike storage tank water heaters that are notorious for breaking and flooding homes, you can save more money on maintenance and repairs if you install a tankless unit in your home. Most tankless or demand-type water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years.
Get the most benefits from a new water heater installation by hiring the service of licensed and skilled professionals. Find a reliable water heating company you can partner with in your local area today!