Most homeowners have traditional tank-style water heaters. These appliances are energy guzzlers, but there’s an energy- and cost-saving alternative. Tankless water heaters have a wide range of benefits. While they are more expensive to purchase and install, investing in a tankless, or on-demand, a water heater can pay off over time in many ways. Some of the advantages include:
Continuous Hot Water Supply
If you have a large family, no one will be left with a cold shower. As long as you don’t exceed the tankless water heater’s maximum flow rate, it will continue to supply hot water. You’ll continue to get hot water for as long as the tap is running. Tankless models can deliver from 2 to 7 gallons of hot water per minute (depending on the model), which can be split across multiple showers and appliances, without needing to fill up a large tank.
Energy Efficiency
A supply of hot water does not have to be maintained. Traditional models operate continuously to keep a 40- to 50-gallon water supply hot, which uses a lot of energy. A tankless water heater turns on only when hot water is needed. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), tankless systems can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than traditional types, and up to 50% more so if installed at every hot water outlet in your home.
Lower Utility Costs
You could be spending hundreds of dollars per year on water bills. The average household uses 64 gallons per day, the DoE estimates, which adds up to $400 to $600 per year. A tankless water heater can save you up to $100 annually in energy costs.
Smaller Size
The typical 40- to 50-gallon tank-style water heater is a large cylinder, measuring about 20 inches in diameter and from 54 to 60 inches tall. By comparison, the average tankless unit is about 27 inches tall. It’s around 18 inches wide and 10 inches deep, forming a rectangular device that can be mounted to a wall, often inside a closet. It is mounted much like a circuit breaker panel.
Longevity
A 20+ year average life expectancy far exceeds the 8- to 12-year life of a traditional water heater. This is a result of less wear over time and the fact that parts are easily replaced. Tankless water heaters usually have longer warranties, sometimes providing coverage for up to 20 years, so you may never have to pay to repair or replace the unit.
Lower Risk of Problems
Tank-style models are more prone to mineral buildup from hard water, which can cause them to corrode and leak. While a tankless water heater can leak, the risk is much lower, so it’s less likely your home will experience flooding. There is also no risk of a tank exploding due to high pressure. The lower risk of corrosion reduces the likelihood of exposure to toxic metals, while more precise temperature control means you’re less likely to experience burns.
Connection to Your Smart Home
Some high-tech tankless water heaters can be adjusted via a smartphone app. This allows you to conserve energy while at work or on vacation. As you are heading home, you can turn on the appliance remotely, so a hot shower is possible once you arrive.
Let Express Plumbing Heating & Air Install/Repair Your Tankless Water Heater
Our licensed technicians are trained to install the latest tankless water heaters and perform any type of repair. We can even help decide on the best model for your home. Financing and exclusive protection plans are available. Whether you need a tankless water heater installed or repaired in Boise, Nampa, or Meridian, call Express Plumbing Heating & Air for prompt service.
