The tankless water heater is often considered the new kid on the block. However, tankless water heaters have been a presence in the U.S. market since the 1990s. Over that period, they’ve proven to be a reliable alternative that offers substantial advantages. That doesn’t mean they’re right for every situation. Reviewing the pros and cons of tankless water heaters can help you determine if they’re a good fit for your home.
Pro: Instant Hot Water
Tankless water heaters are often dubbed on-demand or instant water heaters. That’s because they deliver hot water instantly. If you’re a fan of hot, steamy showers, the appeal of on-demand hot water is clear.
Pro: Space Saved
Standard water heaters work by heating water in advance and storing it in a large tank. This design makes them bulky appliances that hog valuable real estate in your home. Tankless water heaters only heat water when it’s requested. Since they aren’t storing water, their footprint is remarkably smaller. You can install multiple tankless water heaters and still enjoy space savings.
Con: Smart Selection Required
For the best results, a tankless water heater must be matched to your household. Factors to consider include your location, the amount of hot water you use, and how you use it. Homes in areas with colder groundwater that use lots of hot water at the same time will need systems that can deliver more hot water than households in warmer spots that use less over longer periods. That can be tricky to manage with a tankless water heater. In fact, households that are heavy hot-water users may be encouraged to install multiple tankless water heaters.
Pro: Longer Life Span
A tankless water heater can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. In comparison, a standard water heater has a life span of roughly 10 years.
Pro: Lower Utility Bills
Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient devices. They only heat water when it’s needed, and they deliver it promptly, so there’s little waste. In contrast, standard water heaters are constantly heating water and holding it in reserve. This inevitably results in some heat loss and wasted energy. When energy costs are high, the savings from a tankless water heater can add up quickly.
Con: Higher Initial Costs
With so many advantages, why aren’t tankless water heaters more popular? The initial price tag is a stumbling block for many. Both the equipment and its installation are higher. However, it’s worth noting that the lower utility bills and longer life span offer plenty of opportunity to see a return on the investment.
Tankless water heaters have plenty of appealing advantages, but standard water heaters are still a great choice for certain homes. If you aren’t certain which is the best option, a plumber can help you sort through the possibilities. For first-rate plumbing and HVAC services in the Farmington, ME, area, just call us at A-1 Plumbing and Heating.
