Are you in the market for a tankless water heater? Not sure what you need? Bewildered by the different options? Our buyer’s guide will tell you everything you need to know before you buy a tankless water heater, from costs to how they work, and both pros and cons.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
So...what do we mean when we say "tankless water heater"? A tankless water heater is a device that heats water as it flows. It eliminates the need - as the name suggests - for a conventional tank water heater. A high powered tankless water heater can produce hot water in 10 to 15 seconds, heating as the water flows through a heat exchanger. Typically, they have copper heat exchangers because of their high thermal conductivity and ease of fabrication. And because a tankless water heater is smaller, they can be installed virtually anywhere in the home.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
A tankless water heater only fires into life when you turn on the hot water tap. As the water flows, a sensor detects the water entering the system and alerts the control panel to work its magic and produce hot water. The control panel switches on a fan to draw in outside air, as the gas valves open and the burner ignites. All of this happens in a split-second. The heat exchanger traps the warmth generated from the flames and transfers it to the water in the copper pipes. Mixing valves regulate the flow and heat, while temperature sensors monitor the water to ensure that it is the correct temperature. If any adjustments are needed, the control panel moderates the gas valves and water valves to increase or decrease the flow of water and heat. Tankless water heater units can be situated anywhere in the home, but you will need an outside wall or roof to fit the vents that carry away the exhaust gasses.How Much Does A Tankless Water Heater Cost?
Prices vary for a gas-fired tankless water heater from around $200 to $4,500 for a central tankless water heater that provides hot water to your entire home. For electric tankless water heaters, the costs are a lot lower, with prices ranging from $100 to $1,000.Rebates are Available
One of the best ways of bridging the cost gap between tankless water heater units and tank-type models is to search for utility rebates. Tankless water heater units are so efficient that they qualify for the federal Energy Star program, making them eligible for refunds. In some cases, the price gap could be eliminated, meaning that you get an upgrade at no extra cost, as well as 20 years of hassle-free hot water supply.Do Tankless Water Heaters Need Much Maintenance?
When you have your tankless water heater installed, speak to the contractor about signing up for an annual service plan. It keeps your heater operational for years to come. If you live in a hard water area, it might be an idea to flush a water and vinegar solution through the system to remove any chalking or limescale from the heat exchanger. It only takes half an hour and keeps your water flow at a healthy level. Think of your heat exchanger tubes like arteries; when they get blocked, the system fails.The Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater
As with all forms of heating, there are pros and cons to each system, and a tankless water heater is no exception.
Continuous Flow of Hot Water
The main advantage is never running out of hot water. Powerful elements heat the water as it flows, giving you a never-ending supply. Unlike a tank-type water heater, where you have to wait for the entire 50-gallon tank to fill and heat, with a tankless, you only have to wait seconds for your hot water.Efficiency
Newer condensing tankless water heater units have a second heat exchanger which collects the exhaust heat destined to get extracted out of the vents. This increases the efficiency of the heater by almost 17% when compared to first-generation tankless water heater technology. It all adds up to a 95% conversion of fuel to heat. Now that’s efficient. That said, even the first-generation heaters are up to 22% more efficient compared to a tank-type heater. The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that gas-fired tankless heaters save on average $108 per year when compared to a tank-type system. The tankless electric variety saves, on average, $44 per year.Smaller in Size
Tanked water heaters are growing in size, thanks to federal rules that require increased insulation to reduce heat loss. Compare that to the average suitcase-size tankless model, and there is a world of difference. It means installing a tankless water heater requires minimal space, and they can be located anywhere there is a means of ventilation to the outdoors.Increased Safety
First, there is no water tank to worry about. Second, harmful bacteria like Legionella has no place to hide, unlike a water tank. Third, carbon monoxide can’t leak into the house because the vents and air supply are sealed, sending the exhaust fumes outdoors.Easy to Use
Because tankless water heaters are advanced, they are also easy to use. Sensors and smart technology control everything, so there is very little interaction required from you.Simple to Winterize
If you have to shut up the house in the winter, with a tanked system, you have to perform a drain down to avoid leaks and burst pipes as the temperature plummets. There are no such worries with a tankless water heater because there is no water tank. Just turn it off.Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heater units have a working lifespan of 20 years. To get the best out of your heater, you should have it professionally serviced once a year, and this ensures that the water heater will last as long as possible.The Disadvantages of a Tankless Water Heater