If you've been hearing about tankless water heaters and you're wondering if they're right for your home, wonder no more! While there are definitive benefits to tankless systems, there are also a few drawbacks you should consider before buying. Read on to find out how you can benefit from installing these systems in your home.
The Wonders of Tankless Water Heaters
Here are five of the primary benefits of using tankless heaters:
- They take up less space. You can install smaller units in sink cabinets or larger units in a closet.
- They offer continuous access to hot water. Because tankless units heat water up as you use it and don't rely on a tank full of heated water, you aren't limited by the tank's size.
- They are highly efficient. In many cases, tankless units are more efficient than tank-style systems, mainly because they don't experience heat loss through the tank walls.
- They're clean. While tank systems are subject to rust and scale accumulation in the tank, tankless water heaters bypass that problem.
- They have a longer warranty. In general, tankless systems last longer than other types of water heaters, so manufacturers can afford to offer a longer warranty.
Drawbacks
Like most everything else, tankless water heaters aren't perfect, so they have their drawbacks. These include:
- Costing more to purchase. The systems generally cost more upfront; however, you'll make up the savings on the backend because they systems operate more efficiently, ultimately leading to lower water bills.
- Experiencing a lag in delivery of hot water. In many cases, when you turn on the hot water at the faucet, it takes a few seconds to deliver the hot water. This is especially true if the tankless unit that supplies hot water to the application is located far away. For example, installing a water heater in the basement to supply water to a second-floor bathroom means a lag in delivery.
- Needing venting. Gas-powered tankless system need venting, just like any other equipment (like a gas furnace). Electric models don't require venting.
Making the Decision
It's highly recommended that homeowners work with an expert to select tankless water heaters for their homes. The best way to ensure that tankless heaters will work well in your home is to size them properly. Most experts recommend employing multiple smaller tankless heaters around the home so that the bathroom, for example, has one tankless system that supplies power to the shower and sink. In general, using multiple systems for various points of application in the home ensures maximum savings and comfort.
Don't get caught without hot water again. Get expert advice while upgrading to a tankless system. For answers to your water heater questions (tankless or not!), contact the Pink Plumber today.
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