Tankless water heaters provide hot water as needed, so they don’t burn energy like storage tank water heaters. This translates into cost savings for you! They also take up much less space and require less maintenance than tank water heaters. If it’s time to replace your old water heater, upgrading to a tankless model offers many advantages. The plumbing experts at Pure Plumbing & Air in Las Vegas, NV want to help you learn about your water heater options.
Advantages of Using Tankless Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters are huge compared to tankless models and typically require a space the size of a closet to house the unit. A tankless water heater can easily be mounted on a wall inside or outside the house.
Tankless water heaters save money by reducing the cost of heating your home. They’re also eco-friendly and known as green water heaters. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, they save more than 34% on electricity costs in most cases.
Additionally, tankless water heaters are long-lasting and dependable. They double the life span of their traditional counterparts, lasting 25 years or longer. They also have substantial warranties on their heat exchanger, parts, and sometimes labor. It is important to review the manufacturer’s warranty terms and conditions before buying a new tankless water heater.
Traditional water heaters use stored water that accumulates rust, scale, and other particles in its supply. Tankless water heaters don’t accumulate sediment. Furthermore, safety sensors ensure the water never scalds from the faucet. Here’s a list of even more benefits of going tankless:
- Saves up to 290 gallons of oil annually
- Saves up to 300 gallons of propane gas
- Saves up to 450 kilowatts monthly
- Endless supply of hot water
- Up to 12 feet of saved space
- Over 99% energy-efficient
Installing a tankless water heater offers many advantages for both the user and the environment. You can save money on electric or fuel costs and reduce your carbon footprint simultaneously.
Faster Heating and Better Performance
If you’ve ever experienced a cold shower, you know how unpleasant it is. Tank water heaters store only a specific amount of water. Once the hot water runs out, you must wait for the unit to refill and heat. You could run out of hot water in the middle of a shower, especially if others use the same supply.
Since tankless water heaters heat on demand, you never have to wait to shower or wash clothes until the water warms again. This is especially beneficial for families that use a lot of hot water. Larger homes with several occupants may need more than one tankless water heater to meet demands. We can help you determine your needs for the ideal setup.
Early tankless models had difficulty meeting hot water demands in multiple bathrooms. Today’s more modern tankless units can simultaneously keep up with multiple hot water needs. According to the US Department of Energy, tankless units can provide hot water at a rate of 2-5 gallons a minute. Gas-fired models can produce even higher flow rates.
Reduced Risks of Leaks and Water Damage
One of the risks of traditional tank water heaters is leak development caused by tank failure. Over time, sediment buildup and corrosion can weaken the tank and increase the chances of leaks. Leaking water tanks not only cause reduced hot water pressure but can also lead to extensive water damage in your home.
Tankless water heaters reduce the risk of leaks. Because they don’t store gallons of water, a leak will cause less damage if it does occur with a tankless model. Most tankless water heater leaks occur at the intake pipe and are easily repaired.
Decreased Maintenance Costs
Tankless water heaters cost more than traditional tank versions, but they reduce your overall costs with long-term energy savings. They also reduce your maintenance costs. Many tankless water heaters only need minimal maintenance, and some have self-cleaning features that make upkeep easier.
Tanked water heaters need annual flushing and are more likely to break down and need water heater repair than tankless units. The added expense of maintenance makes tank water heaters less attractive.
Increased Home Value and Appeal
Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to update their houses with energy-efficient options. If you plan on selling your home in the future, a tankless water heater can be a good investment. Upgrading can attract potential buyers and make your property stand out from others on the market.
Potential Rebates and Incentives
Upgrading to a tankless water heater can also offer rebates and incentives. Installing an ENERGY STAR model can provide tax credits of up to $2,000. Some utility companies offer rebates for installing energy-efficient tankless water heaters, so you should check with your provider to see what they provide.
Better for Hard Water Areas
Hard water can wreak havoc on traditional tanked water heaters. They can accumulate mineral deposits that reduce their heating ability. Mineral buildup can damage the anode rods and cause breaking that requires a replacement.
Tankless water heaters help minimize the risks of hard mineral deposits because they don’t store water. The lack of stored water means minerals have less opportunity to settle. Some tankless water heaters have built-in detectors that warn you of maintenance needs.
Safer Operation
Tanked water heaters store large amounts of water under immense pressure. Under the right conditions, traditional water heaters can overheat, leak, or even explode. Modern tankless water heaters offer many advanced safety features, including:
- Automatic shut-off to prevent overheating
- Built-in leak detection for early identification
- Temperature control to avoid scalding
Parents of small children especially appreciate the safety features that help prevent scalding burns. They don’t have to worry about the water temperature becoming dangerously hot.
No Standby Heat Loss
One major drawback of tank water heaters is their standby heat loss, which wastes energy while the unit continuously heats the water, even when unused. Even the most insulated tanks lose heat, causing frequent heating cycles. Tankless water heaters eliminate this waste. They prevent energy loss because they only heat water when needed.
Flexible Installation Options
Traditional water heaters take up a lot of space. Plumbers install them in garages, closets, and basements.
Tankless water heater installation tends to be fast. They are compact, less than 2 feet wide, and can be mounted on the wall or installed outdoors. They’re especially beneficial for small homes and apartments.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Tankless water heaters are better for the environment. They can help reduce carbon emissions; some tanks heat with solar energy to further reduce your carbon footprint.
Smart Technology Integration
Many modern tankless water heaters feature Wi-Fi connectivity and smart controls that put you in control of your hot water supply. Some of these smart features include the following:
- Energy usage tracking
- Maintenance issue detection
- Remote hot water control
Pure Plumbing & Air is a full-service HVAC and plumbing company in Las Vegas. We opened our doors in 2013 and employ 16 licensed plumbers and HVAC technicians. Pure Plumbing & Air offers installation, maintenance, and repair for all makes and models of water heaters, including tankless options. We provide 24/7 emergency repair services when tankless water heater problems arise. Call our expert plumbers at Pure Plumbing & Air whenever you need services for a tankless water heater.
