If you're in the market for a new water heater, you've probably come across tankless water heaters as an option. But what are the pros and cons of tankless water heaters, and is it worth the investment? In this blog post, we'll break down the benefits and drawbacks of tankless water heaters to help you make an informed decision.
ADVANTAGES
Let's dive into the main benefits of installing a tankless water heater, as opposed to a storage tank water heater.
Energy Efficiency
One major advantage of tankless water heaters is that they're extremely energy-efficient. This means that you can save money on your monthly energy bills as compared to a storage tank heater. The reason for this is that tankless water heaters only heat up the water when it's needed, as opposed to storing it in a tank and continually heating it.
Endless Hot Water Supply
Another major benefit of tankless water heaters is that they provide a virtually endless supply of hot water. This is great for those who take long showers! With a storage tank water heater, you run the risk of running out of hot water if multiple people are using it during the same time.
Space-Saving Size
Tankless water heaters are much more compact than storage tank heaters, making them great for small spaces. This is especially beneficial if you have limited space in your home, as tankless water heaters can be installed just about anywhere.
Longer Lifespan
On average, tankless water heaters last up to 20 years or more, while the typical lifespan of a storage tank water heater is about 10 years. This means you won't have to replace your water heater as often, saving you time and money in the long run. Just keep in mind that to obtain that 20+ year lifespan, you'll need to routinely flush sediment out of your tankless water heater, similar to how you flush sediment out of a water heater tank.
DRAWBACKS
Of course, there are some disadvantages to tankless water heaters as well.
Higher Upfront Cost
Tankless water heaters are more expensive upfront than storage tank water heaters. However, the energy savings on your monthly utility bills may be enough to offset the initial expense of purchasing a tankless water heater.
Installation Cost & Difficulty
Because they are more complex systems, installing a tankless water heater is more expensive and more difficult than installing a storage tank water heater. Therefore, it's important that you hire an experienced, licensed plumber to install your tankless water heater for you.
Lower Flow Rate
Tankless water heaters generally have a lower flow rate than storage tank water. This means that a tankless water heater might have trouble keeping up with a household that needs hot water in multiple locations at once. To avoid this issue, plumbers will recommend installing two tankless water heaters, dedicated to different portions of the house.
What to Consider When Choosing Between Tank and Tankless
When deciding between a tank and tankless water heater, there are several factors you should consider. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How long do you plan to stay in your home?
- What is your budget for a new water heater?
- What is your current energy usage?
- Is space an issue in your home?
- Do you need a continuous supply of hot water?
Once you have answered these questions, you should be able to make an informed decision about whether to switch to a tankless water heater or stick with your current storage tank water heater.
Ultimately, whether or not a tankless water heater is worth the investment will depend on your specific needs and budget.
WATER HEATER INSTALLATION IN LOS FELIZ & GLENDALE
If you're considering a tankless water heater, Nautilus Plumbing can help. Our experienced plumbers can assess your home's needs and recommend the best water heater solution for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation: (323) 629-4627.