PlumbingThe Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

https://torchservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/The-Pros-and-Cons-of-Tankless-Water-Heaters-Torch-Plumbing-Owasso-Tulsa.jpg

Table of Contents

Conventional Water Heaters vs Tankless Water Heaters

The Pros of a Tankless Water Heater

The Cons of a Tankless Water Heater

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right For You?

Maintaining a Tankless Water Heater

Torch Services for Tankless Water Heater Installation 

 

When it comes to choosing a water heater, there are many factors to consider. One option you may be considering is a tankless water heater. But what exactly are the pros and cons of this type of system? Here’s a look at some things to keep in mind.

What is the difference between a conventional water heater and a tankless water heater?

A tankless water heater is a gas or electric heater that does not store water, but heats it upon contact, and therefore on-demand. If you needed to take a shower or run the dishwasher, the hot water would be heated instantly as soon as the cold water was flushed from the faucet.

The Pros of a Tankless Water Heater

 

The biggest advantage of a tankless hot water heater is energy savings. 

One of the main benefits of a tankless system is that it can save you money on your energy bills. Because it only heats water when you need it, there is no wasted energy keeping a tank of hot water heated all day and night whether you’re at home or not. 

The Science Behind Saving Energy with Tankless Water Heaters

Conventional tank water heaters typically use between 30 and 50 percent of the energy they consume to maintain the water in the tank at a consistent temperature. This means that even when you’re not using hot water, the heater is working to keep the water hot.

On the other hand, tankless versions heat your regular water flow. This means that they are much more efficient in terms of energy usage. In fact, they can be up to 34 percent more efficient than traditional tank heaters.

A tankless water heater provides instant hot water.

Another plus of a tankless water heater is that you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water. With a traditional tank system, if you use a lot of hot water in a short period of time, you can quickly deplete the supply. With a tankless system, the whole family can take consecutive showers and throw a load of laundry in the washing machine after. The hot water still wouldn’t run out. 

Tankless water heaters last longer than tank water heaters. 

Tankless water heaters also tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional tank heaters. This is because they don’t have to constantly maintain a supply of hot water, which puts stress on the system and can lead to premature wear and tear.

The average standard hot water heater lasts about ten years. However a tankless hot water heater, with recommended maintenance, is expected to last about 20 years. They also often come with longer warranties. 

Tankless Water Heaters Save Space.

With a tank heater, you’ll need more space. To satisfy more robust hot water needs, you’ll need a large tank of 55 gallons or more. This can be an issue for some home owners – especially those tight on space. 

Tankless water heaters are a great space saving option. They are small and can be mounted on a wall, which can free up floor space in your home.

 

There may be tax credits or rebates to help with the cost. 

In previous years, there have been federal Home Energy Efficiency Tax Credits for installing upgrades to your home including approved energy efficient water heaters. 

This tax credit hasn’t been reinstated for 2022. However, it has historically not been approved until the end of the calendar year. If you are interested in going with a tankless water heater, be on the lookout for possible tax rebates

The Cons of a Tankless Water Heater

 

The cost of a tankless unit is higher upfront. 

One potential downside of tankless water heaters is the upfront cost. They are typically more expensive than traditional tank heaters, so you’ll need to factor that into your budget. A standard water heater usually starts around $550 while tankless water heater pricing usually begins around $1,000. 

You can also expect higher installation costs with a tankless water heater.

Another thing to keep in mind is that installation costs can also be higher for a tankless system. This is because the unit needs to be properly vented and the plumbing might need to be reconfigured to accommodate the new system. 

If you opt for an electric tankless heater instead of gas, you may avoid some additional costs related to changing your natural gas plumbing. 

You’ll have no hot water during power outages.

If you live in an area with frequent power outages, a tankless water heater may not be right for you. Electric and gas tankless water heaters both need electricity to operate, so you won’t have any hot water during an outage.

You may need more than one tankless hot water heater. 

Tankless systems may not be able to keep up a consistent water temperature in homes with large families or businesses with frequent hot water needs. If you have a big family or often have guests, you may need multiple units or a very powerful system to meet your needs. 

One unit will offer continuous consecutive hot showers, however if you run several appliances simultaneously that need hot water, you may end up with a luke-warm experience. 

Adding an additional tankless hot water heater can make sure this isn’t an issue, but it will also add to your initial costs. 

You may need to install a water softener. 

It’s not a requirement that you’ll need a water softener with your tankless hot water heater. However, if you have hard water a water softener can help you avoid sediment build-up which can cause issues over time. No matter the water heater you choose, if you have hard water,  a water softener is worth considering for all of the pipes in your home. 

Which type of homeowner should consider a tankless water heater system installed in their home?

If you are someone who is interested in saving space and money then a tankless water heater system might be right for you. Although the initial investment for the unit and installation might be higher, over time you will save on your energy bill.

 

Tankless water heaters are becoming standard in new construction

As more and more homeowners are interested in saving energy, tankless water heaters are becoming more popular in new construction homes. If you are building a new home or considering a renovation, a tankless water heater should be on your radar.

 

What are the factors that can determine the tankless water heater cost?

The cost of a tankless water heater system can vary depending on a number of factors. These include the size and capacity of the unit, the type of fuel it uses, and the complexity of the installation.

Maintaining a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heater repair

Tankless water heater maintenance should be factored into your purchase. You should have the unit serviced annually to clear out any sediment build-up and check for any potential problems. In some cases, professional maintenance may be required by the manufacturer warranty.  

Other than that, you just need to make sure that the unit is kept clean and if a water softener is used, that it is kept up to date as well.

Weigh the pros and cons of tankless water heaters. 

While tankless water heaters have a number of advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. 

Overall, they’re better for the environment and your wallet over time. They offer added convenience and a reliable and unending stream of hot water for your needs. There also may be some tax rebates available. 

Weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if a tankless system is right for your home or contact the experts at Torch Services of Owasso to help you decide. 

Choose Torch Services for Tankless Water Heater Installation in Tulsa, Broken Arrow and Owasso

At Torch Services, we offer a wide range of plumbing services, including tankless water heater installation, maintenance and repair. 

We know the ins-and-outs of tankless water heaters and the various options available on the market. We also offer fair pricing on tankless water heater installation. 

Contact us today to schedule your tankless water heater installation in Tulsa, Owasso and the surrounding areas.