Point-of-use or on-demand water heaters hold a significant advantage over traditional storage water heater systems. Often referred to as a tankless water heater, they not only save energy, but require less space, offer a longer life span and produce hot water instantly, eliminating the need to continuously heat water housed in a storage tank. Not only will this feature reduce your monthly energy bill, but it will also increase the time between hot water system replacements. We'll outline will the many advantages of these efficient, water-heating systems ahead.
How They Work
On-demand water heaters provide hot water when you need it. When you or a household appliance calls for hot water, an internal flow valve within the unit senses the water flow and activates the appliance's gas burner or electric element to heat the water as it passes. You can expect a constant supply of hot water as the unit will continue to heat water for as long as water flows through it. When you turn off the faucet, the flow sensor deactivates the unit.
Space Savings
Since on-demand water heaters heat water as you need it, there is no need for a storage tank. Tankless water heaters usually mount to an exterior or interior wall and are much smaller than traditional storage tank systems. Their compact size will free up valuable space in your garage or utility closet that can be used for additional storage space
Conserve Energy
On-demand water heating systems are energy efficient. According to energy.gov, a tankless water heater system is between 24 and 34-percent more efficient than traditional, storage tank systems for households that use 41 gallons or less each day. This conservation equates to an approximate annual energy savings of $100 dollars for a typical household. In addition, you can increase the savings—between 27 and 50 percent—by installing an on-demand water heater at each hot water outlet.
Durability
According to the Department of Energy, storage tank water heaters have a typical lifespan of between 10 and 15 years, while on-demand water heaters last upwards of 20 years when properly maintained. While the initial investment in an on-demand water heater can be higher, the costs versus traditional storage tank systems will even out due to their extended life expectancy and energy savings.
These efficient water-heating systems can also reduce your carbon footprint through energy conservation by helping to reduce greenhouse gasses that are the leading cause of climate change and global warming.
For answers to your plumbing questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
