Regardless of buying the first tankless water heater, or replacing the fifth one, there are several aspects to consider. The buyer needs to assess whether an electric-powered or a gas-fueled heater will be the best option. The installation process also needs to be decided. Getting overwhelmed while considering a tankless hot water heater is natural. Initiating proper research and going beyond just the make and model aids in selecting the right appliance.
What is the concept of a tankless water heater?
The heater that heats and delivers hot water only when it is required is the basic concept behind a tankless water heater. It is also referred to as an on-demand water heater and has become increasingly popular in recent years. the compact design, and energy-efficiency features make tankless water heaters an excellent alternative to traditional water heaters. furthermore, unlike conventional water heaters, tankless water heaters are not restricted by their tanks’ sizes. This also means that one can enjoy an unlimited stream of steamy hot water.
Working mechanism
The functioning mechanism is simple. When one opens the hot water tap, the cold water runs into the tankless water heater. As the water flows into the heater, a gas burner or an electric heating component is responsible to heat the water. When the time comes for the water to exit the unit, it is hot and ready to be used. Once the hot water tap is closed, the cold water running into the unit also shuts. Furthermore, the gas burner or electric heating component also shuts down. The tankless water heating appliance stays idle until the hot water tap is opened.
Tankless heaters versus traditional tank water heaters
A tankless hot water heater and a traditional tank-designed heater function completely differently. The following points offer a closer understanding of each of them.
- Tankless water heaters heat the water only when demanded. The tank-styled heaters heat and also store the water in a tank that can be used later on.
- The immediate investment is huge in case tankless units, and installation must be initiated by only experienced professionals. On the other hand, the traditional units are not as expensive.
- Tankless water heaters are eco-friendly and more energy-efficient than tank-styled water heaters.
- One of the highlighting aspects of tankless water heating units is their compact design and is also easy to mount on the walls. For a tank-styled heater, adequate floor space is required.
- If tankless water heaters are maintained properly, they can last for twenty years, or more. On the other hand, the traditional tank-designed water heater won’t last more than 8 years to a maximum of 10 years efficiently.
Advantages of using tankless water heaters
Several benefits of tankless water heating units have made it a popular choice among modern homeowners. The advantages are mentioned as follows:
Cost-effective operation
One of the prime advantages of using tankless water heaters is their energy-saving feature. Since hot water is delivered only when demanded, it options out the standby loss of heat. Traditional tank water heater stores water within the unit, and heating and reheating are executed. The operating cost for a tankless unit is way more budget-friendly.
No end to hot water supply
One can enjoy an endless hot water supply during showers. This is mainly because a tankless hot water heater doesn’t have any limit on the size of the tank. The reality of experiencing an unlimited hot water supply makes it a huge craze in the market.
Easily replaceable parts
Tankless water heaters are designed with parts and components that can be easily replaced. They have been designed in a way that the majority of their components can be replaced easily. This is one of the reasons why tankless heating units have longer durability than traditional water heaters. when a tank water heater has a leaky portion, the entire heater needs a replacement.
The presence of freshwater
Since hot water is never stored in a unit, there is no fear of rust and mineral composites mixing with water. When one is using the tankless water heater, hot water is delivered only when required right at a specific time.
Considering the cost
When the expense is considered, one has to look at two factors.
- The cost of the tankless water heater
- The expense involved in the installation process
The above-mentioned considerations also depend on the fact whether one is purchasing a gas-powered tankless water unit or an electrical-fueled one.
Gas-powered tankless water heaters
If one is planning to purchase a high-quality gas tankless water heater, he/she can expect the price to start from $800 to $1000. The price rates can go even higher if one desires to have the whims and fancies of a multi-featured heater. Before making the final decision of purchasing a gas tankless hot water heater, one should consider the installation expense as well.
Electric-powered tankless water heaters
In comparison to a gas-fueled heater, the electric tankless water heaters are less expensive to purchase and install. A good quality electric tankless unit will range from $500 to $700. The best part is that they are budget-friendly to install. In case, a homeowner plans to install the electric tankless unit on an old property, the entire electrical system needs to be upgraded, which can be a costly affair.
Both gas and electric tankless water heaters are popular and sell like hotcakes. Depending on the home electrical system, budget, and preferences, one invests money in an appliance.
Conclusion
One of the primary advantages of purchasing and installing a tankless hot water heater is the energy efficiency and cost savings they render. One has to understand that the savings and efficiency of a tankless unit will experience a downgrade when the demand for household hot water increases. But still one can experience a tankless heating unit outperforming a traditional tank-styled water heater, in almost every aspect. Out of all the features, energy efficiency, and endless supply of hot water are eye-grabbing and the major selling USP for tankless water heaters.
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