Water heaters are the unsung heroes of a functioning household. Taking showers or washing dishes would not be as enjoyable if the water heater did not output warm water. With the winter in full swing now, it seems that the water heater is working overtime. That might mean a higher energy bill. Have you thought about switching to a tankless water heater? Unsure if it’s the right product for you? At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, we believe you should be able to make informed decisions about your household appliances. That is why we have accumulated both the advantages and disadvantages of a tankless water heater.
The Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
There are numerous advantages of switching to a tankless water heater. A conventional tank can account for up to 30% of a house’s energy budget. Tankless water heaters have the potential to cut your energy costs and lower the bills. Many other benefits come with this form of heater.
Lower Operating Costs: As previously mentioned, tankless water heaters do not use as much energy to heat the water. In conventional water heaters, much of the energy is spent heating standby water waiting to be used. A tankless water heater offers instant heating to the water that is immediately necessary.
Saving on Space: A tankless water heater takes up less space than the conventional heater. A normal water tank can be has big as 60” tall and 24” wide because it needs to hold 40 to 60 gallons of water. That extra space can be used for other, practical things. In comparison, a tankless heater is usually 28” tall and 20” wide.
Lifespan: If you plan to stay in your home for years to come, a tankless water heater can be a good investment. The average lifespan is 20 years, while conventional tanks usually only last for 10-13 years.
The Drawbacks of a Tankless Water Heater
While tankless water heaters have their perks, there might be some limitations you might want to consider. It can be seem like an obvious choice, but tankless water heaters are not necessarily for everyone.
High Cost Upfront: While a tankless water heater might save you money in the long run, it can be expensive to initially install. A normal water heater can cost as low as $300, while a tankless water heater usually starts around $1,000. Not everyone can afford the setup cost.
Limited Output: A normal water tank has 40 to 60 gallons of water ready to be used. In comparison, a tankless water heater heats water as it becomes necessary. If there is a high demand for hot water at once, it can be hard for the heater to keep up. Thus, there can be an inconsistency with water temperature.
Whether you would like a new tankless water heater or simply want to have your old conventional one looked at, our plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain can help! We have years of experience working with water tanks and can help you decide the right option for you. Contact us today.
