Did you know that when it comes to hot water systems, homeowners have more choices than ever before? Traditional tank water heaters, which store hot water in a reservoir, have been the standard for decades. However, in recent years, tankless water heaters have gained popularity due to their energy efficiency and convenience. If you’re considering a new hot water system for your home, you might be wondering if a tankless system is the right choice. We’ll help you explore the benefits and drawbacks of tankless water heaters to help you make the best choice that suits your home.
Tankless Water Heaters? What are they?
A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand or instant water heater, heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where it is heated either by a gas burner or an electric element. This ensures a constant supply of hot water without the need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water.
Advantages of using Tankless Water Heaters
Energy Efficiency: Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional tank models. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, tankless water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy-efficient. Even in homes that use a lot of hot water—around 86 gallons per day—they can be 8%–14% more efficient.
Unlimited Hot Water One of the most appealing benefits of a tankless water heater is the on demand supply of hot water. Unlike traditional water heaters that can run out of hot water, tankless systems provide hot water, non-stop. This is particularly beneficial for large households that frequently use hot water for showers, dishwashing and laundry.
Space Saving Tankless water heaters are smaller than traditional tank heaters. They can be mounted on a wall and fit into tight spaces, making them ideal for homes with limited space.
Longer Lifespan Tankless water heaters are capable of having a longer lifespan than tank variants. While tank heaters typically last about 10-15 years, tankless units can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Reduced Risk of Water Damage As tankless water heaters don’t have a reservoir that can leak or burst, they pose a lower risk of causing water damage to your home. This can save you from costly repairs and the inconvenience of dealing with a flooded basement or utility room.
Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters
Higher Initial Cost The initial investment of buying and installing a tankless water heater can be significantly higher than that of a traditional tank heater. Depending on the model and the installation method, your home’s gas or electrical setup may require modifications too, which can add to the cost.
Inconsistent Water Temperature There are occasions when tankless water heaters can produce inconsistent water temperatures, especially if one unit supplies to multiple hot water outlets and all are in use at the same time.
Delay in Hot Water Delivery Although tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, there can still be a slight delay in hot water delivery compared to tank heaters. This is because the unit needs to heat the water first, which may take a few seconds up to a minute.
Points to consider when choosing a Tankless Water Heater
- Household Hot Water Usage The amount of hot water your household uses is a crucial factor in determining if a tankless water heater is right for you. Homes with high hot water demands may require multiple units or a larger, more powerful unit to ensure a consistent supply of hot water.
- Climate Where you’re staying can definitely impact the efficiency and performance of a tankless water heater. In colder climates, incoming water is colder, which means the unit will need to take on more load and may reduce the overall efficiency.
- Fuel Type Tankless water heaters are available in both electric and gas models. While gas models tend to be more powerful and can deliver higher flow rates, they also require ventilation. For a smaller household, electric models are a better choice as they generally come with limited heating efficacy.
- Space Availability Tankless water heaters offer a clear advantage if your homes have limited space. Their compact size allows for flexible installation options, making them suitable for apartments, condos and smaller homes.
- Long-Term Cost Savings While the initial cost of a tankless water heater is higher, the long-term energy savings can offset this expense. Always consider your long-term plans and whether the energy savings will justify the initial investment.
Heating solutions are an indispensable part of a home, especially in the cold climatic regions of Australia. A tankless water heater can be a very viable investment for your home, offering energy efficiency, unlimited hot water and space-saving benefits. However, it’s important to weigh the initial investments and potential installation challenges against these benefits.
Whether you opt for a tankless system or stick with a traditional tank heater, ensuring you have a reliable and efficient hot water source is key to maintaining a comfortable home. Consider your household’s hot water usage, climate and long-term plans when deciding if a tankless water heater is right for you. Consult with a home improvement consultant or engineer, who can help you assess your circumstances and offer advice on how you can proceed with getting a tankless water heater for your home.
