What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Unlike traditional water heaters that continuously heat and store water in a tank, tankless water heaters heat water directly as it flows through the device. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water instantly.
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters are up to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters for homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily. Even for homes that use a lot of hot water (around 86 gallons per day), tankless units can still be 8-14% more efficient.
Endless Hot Water
With a tankless system, you'll never run out of hot water in the middle of a shower. The water is heated as it passes through the unit, providing a continuous supply of hot water.
Space Savings
Tankless units are compact, typically about the size of a small suitcase, and can be mounted on a wall. This frees up valuable floor space in your home.
Longer Lifespan
While conventional water heaters typically last 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years with proper maintenance. Many also have easily replaceable parts, extending their life even further.
Reduced Risk of Water Damage
Since there's no tank that can leak or burst, tankless water heaters significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic water damage to your home.
Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?
Consider these factors:
- Initial cost (higher than traditional units)
- Your household's hot water demand
- Available space
- Energy source (gas or electric)
- Long-term savings goals
While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term energy savings and longer lifespan often make tankless water heaters a smart investment for many homeowners.