How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
Did you know that, according to the Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of your home's energy use? Traditional water heaters can struggle to keep up with high hot water demands, leading to cold showers and energy inefficiency.
Tankless water heaters offer a solution by providing hot water on demand without the need for a storage tank.
Today, we're taking a closer look into how tankless water heaters work, their energy efficiency, and the various tankless water heater benefits that can enhance your lifestyle.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
A tankless water heater functions by heating water on demand, without the need for a storage tank. This system offers several benefits, including:
Instant hot water
Improved energy efficiency
Reduced standby heat loss
Instant Hot Water
When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows into the tankless unit through an inlet pipe. The flow sensor detects this movement and activates the heater.
Depending on the model, the heater may use either gas burners or electric coils to rapidly warm the water. The heating process only continues as long as water is flowing, so energy is only consumed when hot water is needed.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Electric models use powerful heating elements to heat the water directly as it passes through the unit. These models tend to have a more compact design but may not provide as high a flow rate as gas-powered versions.
Gas models, on the other hand, use burners that are ignited when water enters the system. They generally offer higher flow rates, making them better for larger households or those with high water demands.
Reduced Standby Heat Loss
One of the key differences from traditional storage water heaters is the elimination of standby heat loss. In a conventional heater, water must be kept warm constantly, which wastes energy.
With a tankless system, this isn't an issue since the water is only heated when needed. This is why many homeowners appreciate the energy efficiency of tankless heaters.
The design of a tankless water heater not only saves energy but also provides convenience by delivering a constant supply of hot water. Whether you're taking back-to-back showers or running multiple appliances, a properly sized tankless system can keep up with demand without running out of hot water.
Tankless Water Heater Benefits
There are several tankless water heater benefits that make these systems attractive to many homeowners. From energy efficiency to convenience, these advantages help explain the growing popularity of tankless models.
Endless hot water supply
Space-saving design
Longer lifespan
Endless Hot Water Supply
One of the biggest advantages of tankless heaters is the continuous hot water supply. Since the system heats water as needed, it doesn't run out the way traditional tanks do. This makes it ideal for families or homes with high water usage.
Space-Saving Design
The compact design of tankless water heaters is another benefit. Traditional water heaters require large storage tanks, which can take up valuable floor space. Tankless units are mounted on walls and take up much less room, offering more flexibility in where they can be installed. This feature is especially useful in smaller homes or apartments.
Longer Lifespan
With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters tend to last longer than traditional models. While a conventional unit may need replacement after 10 to 15 years, tankless systems can last up to 20 years. The extended lifespan can offset the higher initial cost over time.
Tankless Heater Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to getting the most out of a tankless water heater. These systems require careful planning and professional expertise to ensure they function well and provide long-term benefits.
There are three core points to keep in mind when installing a tankless system:
Sizing the system correctly
Professional installation
Location and mounting
Sizing the System Correctly
Before installing a tankless water heater, it's important to choose the right size. It means calculating the household's peak hot water demand. A unit that's too small won't be able to supply enough hot water when multiple fixtures are used at once.
Professional Installation
Although some homeowners might be tempted to install a tankless water heater themselves, it's best to hire a professional. Gas-powered models, in particular, require proper ventilation to prevent safety risks. A professional installer can also check that your plumbing and electrical systems can handle the new unit.
Location and Mounting
Tankless water heaters are often mounted on walls, so choosing the right location matters. The unit should be placed where water use is highest, such as near bathrooms or kitchens. It reduces wait times for hot water and improves overall efficiency.
Energy Efficiency and Savings
Unlike traditional water heaters, which keep a large tank of water heated all day, tankless models only heat water when it's needed. This reduces energy waste and can result in noticeable savings on monthly utility bills.
One of the main reasons tankless water heaters save energy is that they don't experience standby heat loss. In a conventional water heater, energy is lost as the water in the tank cools, requiring constant reheating.
Since tankless systems don't store hot water, they only use energy during operation. This makes them an attractive option for households looking to cut energy consumption.
Another factor that contributes to savings is the longer lifespan of tankless models. While traditional heaters might last about 10 to 15 years, tankless systems can function well for up to 20 years with proper maintenance. This durability means fewer replacements over time, leading to even more savings in the long run.
For those concerned about the environment, the energy efficiency of tankless heaters also means a smaller carbon footprint. By using less energy overall, homeowners can reduce their impact on the environment while enjoying consistent hot water.
Experience Tankless Water Heater Savings
These tankless water heater benefits can greatly improve both convenience and household efficiency.
Tim Beil Plumbing, a trusted family-owned business since 1967, is dedicated to exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Our technicians arrive in clearly marked trucks, wear clean uniforms, and prioritize your safety and home cleanliness. With transparent pricing, top-quality workmanship, and expertise in plumbing systems, we proudly serve the Lehigh Valley.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your water heater needs!
