With innovations in water heating, many homeowners are now reviewing the benefits of alternative systems like a tankless water heater for their property. Our team at Crossfield Heating & Air Conditioning has many years’ experience working with tankless water heaters. In this latest post, we’ll explore the benefits and how one can be used in your home.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater works by providing a non-stop source of hot water immediately to the user. When the tap is turned on, cold water travels through the pipe into the heater, and then either a gas burner or a heating element heats the water. That results in the heater providing a constant supply of hot water at the requisite temperature for the user.
What Are the Benefits of a Tankless Heater?
Let’s review a few of the benefits provided by using a tankless water heater in your home.
Energy Efficiency
One of the clear benefits associated with tankless water heaters is energy efficiency. The data shows that tankless can be up to 14% more efficient than the equivalent storage tank heating system. And so, it can help homeowners save hundreds of dollars per year on their home water heating costs.
Life Expectancy
Another benefit achieved by using a tankless water heater is that you’ll save on unit replacement costs over the long-term. Tankless water heats are designed to last up to 20 years, on average, which compares to the average lifetime of 10–15 years for conventional water heating equipment.
Maintenance Costs
Because the parts for tankless water heaters are easier to source, and maintenance issues are limited, you’ll save money on repair costs when selecting a tankless system compared to a conventional water heater.
What to Consider Before Buying a Tankless Heater
Before you make the decision to install a tankless water heater in your home, you should take the following elements into full consideration:
Size
Tankless heaters are rated according to the maximum temperature rise possible at a specific flow rate. You’ll need to determine the flow rate and the temperature rise you’ll need for a specific application. If you’ll be using a tankless heater for multiple applications at once (one family member showering and another doing the dishes, for example) you should consider a larger system.
Fuel type
Choosing by fuel type will help you determine how much you’ll be spending on energy for the years to come. Tankless heaters are available in electricity, natural gas, and propane-powered formats.
Running Costs
Make sure you work closely with a heating company to determine the running costs of a tankless heater. These costs can rise incrementally over time and will require you to take into consideration recovery efficiency, standby losses, and cycling losses.
Our trusted and experienced team at Crossfield Heating & Air Conditioning can guide you in choosing a tankless water heater that’s right for your home. To learn more about the options on the market, please contact us today.
