Tankless water heaters are being marketed as an appliance of the future. They are lauded for their ease of ownership and efficiency. As with most innovations, modernization is not cheap. In a unit-to-unit comparison, tankless water heaters are twice as expensive as a traditional storage tank system. A tankless water heater can also require special installation depending on the make and model.
6 Reasons to Make the Switch to a Tankless Water Heater
Considering the expense associated with tankless systems, how could the benefits outweigh the costs? Depending on your situation and the number of people in your home, you may be fine with the current system you use, and you’re probably getting your money’s worth out of your traditional water heater. But many homeowners may find their lifestyles and usage trends would be better served by a tankless system.
- On-Demand Hot Water: The traditional storage-tank water heaters that we are all familiar with have a finite amount of heated water available. Once you use the full supply of water, you are out of water. Tankless water heaters make water on demand, so you have water whenever you need it. When you turn on the hot water tap, the cold water from your pipes passes through a heating element, and your hot water is delivered on the spot. So, where your traditional water heater can be emptied from consecutive use, your tankless system cannot.
- Energy Efficient: The US Department of Energy has reported that the average American home uses an average of 41 gallons of water a day or less. When that water is delivered via a tankless system, it is as much as 34% more efficient. Traditional systems are less efficient because they waste energy heating water that is not in use. This energy waste is called standby heat loss. Tankless systems are also more efficient because they only heat water when needed.
- Space Savers: Tankless water heaters take up less space than traditional systems. They are also less of an eyesore in your home than large tanks. Tankless systems are so small they can be mounted on a wall or in a cabinet or small closet.
- Longer Lifespan: Traditional water heaters have a lifespan of about 15 years if well cared for or ten years on average. Tankless water heaters can last for as many as 20 years. One thing that can kill the lifespan of your tankless system is hard water. So, hard water should be softened if you plan to maximize the benefits of a tankless system.
- Flood Proof: Tankless systems do not store water, so there isn’t a threat of a tank exploding or leaking and flooding your home. Water and mold damages are expensive and dangerous to your home.
- Property Value: Sellers find that homebuyers love tankless water heaters. They have a longer lifespan, they cost less to operate, and they provide water on demand, making them very convenient. Tankless systems do have limitations depending on the model and size system you purchase. These features are very appealing to homebuyers.
Wallner Provides High-Quality Plumbing Products
At Wallner, our plumbing specialists are dedicated professionals who can help you choose the perfect water heater for your home. Our team is fast and accurate, and we can respond to your call in an hour or less. If you are ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater, call our Redding plumbing specialists at (530) 223-5622 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
