Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation
What You Need to Know About Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation
One of the creature comforts we enjoy the most is a hot shower; whether we have been sweating in the heat or freezing in the cold, a shower makes a huge difference to the rest of the day. But sometimes, those showers come at a premium:
- Does your home have a “shower hog?”
- A hot shower might be a rarity in homes with large families.
- When guests spend a few days with you, not everyone gets the hot water
Sometimes, taking a hot shower can be inconvenient.
- When it takes too long for the hot water to make it to your shower
- When everyone needs to get ready at the same time
- When the water heater begins to fail, and the water does not get very hot
While there are times for a cold shower, an unexpected cold shower is never appreciated!
Somewhere in your home, probably an out-of-the-way location, there sits a tall cylinder with pipes and wires in abundance. Between 30 and 50 gallons of water is heated using electricity or natural gas/propane and ideally the water is held at that desired temperature for washing.
When someone uses hot water, cold water pours into the tank to replace what is used. Energy (electric or gas) brings the water to the desired temperature . . . unless the demand for hot water overwhelms the heater’s ability to catch up.
If your family experiences more than their fair share of cold showers, there is an alternative to a large hot water tank. A series of tankless water heaters in strategic locations can provide an instant and seamless supply of hot water at multiple faucets. A tankless water heater is mounted under a sink or on the wall and takes up very little space.
The small-capacity reservoir holds the heat for the immediate need and the heating element, located at the source, provides hot water with no delay. But like every decision, it is worth exploring the Pros and Cons of Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation.
Tankless Hot Water Heater Pros
- Longer lifespan. Municipal water supplies contain minute amounts of various salts and acidic chemicals. The acidic compound proves to be slightly caustic and will corrode the metal tank and valves. The salts are heavier than water and deposit inside the tank. When the deposits build up, they cover the heating element or insulate against the burner. Large tanks fail from the inside out.
- Since tankless water heaters are wall-mounted or hidden under the counter, they take up less space. The old water heater closet might be available for storage—bonus!!
- You must admit, having a ready supply of hot water available instantly, at any faucet within your home is very convenient.
- Energy-efficient. The cost of always keeping 40 to 50 gallons of water hot, compared to only a few gallons hot, is significant. How much? Tankless systems are 34% more efficient than large tank hot water heaters: that is between $50 and $100 off the energy bill each year.1
Tankless Hot Water Heater Cons
- As you might imagine, installing several, albeit smaller, hot water tanks rather than one will cost a little more. However, since the saving is quantifiable, you can predict the payback period.
- Additional equipment. During the installation, a technician will need to reroute energy sources—either gas or electric power. If one tank supplies hot water to two appliances, an additional valve will need to be added.
Both electric and gas-powered tankless water heaters are available in a variety of styles. If you are considering this option for your comfort and convenience, give Dr. Cool Plumbing a call.
Let Us Help With Your Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation
Let Doctore Cool help with your Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation. Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-338-8751 or email Doctor Cool and let our professional Residential Plumbing Contractors assist with all of your Tankless Hot Water Heater Installation questions.
1 https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/plumbing/tankless-water-heater-buying-guide/