Can I Really Save Money With A Tankless Water Heater?
Yes, absolutely yes, you can save money with a tankless water heater. They can provide a never-ending supply of hot water that per gallon costs less than virtually any other type of water heater currently in manufacture.
Because tankless water heaters don't work all day, every day heating water that simply sits in a holding tank, getting cold as soon as it's warmed, property owners can save thousands of dollars over the life of the tank on their gas or electric bills. Heating water only when it's needed and only for as long as it's needed saves not only money but our planet's natural resources.
Tankless water heaters connect your water source to your internal household plumbing. Operating only when the hot water spigot is turned, water is channeled through the machine and is superheated very quickly, sending hot water to your sink, tub, shower, or washing machine, wherever you need it.
Because the hot water arrives in mere moments, no extra delay for heated water is experienced. Oftentimes, the hot water flows more quickly than with standard tank heaters, simply because the water doesn't just sit while heating then cooling then heating again then cooling again in the tank. Gas tankless water heaters provide hot water faster than electric tankless water heaters, and the capacity averages around two to five gallons per minute, depending on size.
Because tankless heaters specifically prohibit water from sitting in a holding pod, tank leaks, rusted pipes, and overall tank maintenance is virtually eliminated. Debris that doesn't gather cannot plug tanks or damage filters or sewer pipes. Drains that don't clog as often reduce drain cleaning and incumbent hassle and irritation. Internal and external sewer repair needs enjoy a declination, as well.
One possible but entirely minor disadvantage to a tankless water heater surrounds minor or trickle water flow. Often the user must open the faucet into a full water flow before the water runs hot, adding five or six seconds delay. However, when hot water arrives, the user can cut back on the flow, and hot water continues easily.
Smaller tankless water heaters don't offer the capacity to run several hot water flows simultaneously, so careful timing of use may be necessary. Fortunately, because these heaters are much smaller than standard water tanks, it's entirely possible to install separate, dedicated heaters that provide for separate functions. For example, a small one can be plumbed for only the washing machine and the dishwasher while the main heater provides for the rest of the house, the kitchen sink and bathrooms.
Colder climes cause incoming water flow to be at a lower temperature during the winter, which may cause additional delay during those months than usual. Allow a few extra seconds for the heated water to arrive.