If you want to make your home more energy-efficient and always have hot water when you need it, a tankless water heater could be the solution. Unlike traditional water heaters that keep water hot in a big tank, a tankless system heats it on demand, giving you an endless supply of hot water without wait time.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Traditional water heaters store their hot water in a large tank and keep it warm until you need it. While this method works, it can also waste energy because the water is constantly being reheated. On the other hand, a tankless water heater never stores water — it heats it instantly when you need it. When you turn on the hot water faucet, the unit detects the flow and instantly heats the water as it passes through. This system ensures you always have hot water when you need it without the waste of energy associated with traditional models.
Because tankless systems heat water directly, they also avoid the issue of running out of hot water, which is common with conventional tank heaters. With a traditional tank, once the hot water runs out, you must wait for the tank to refill and heat more water. With a tankless unit, however, if it is working properly, you’ll always have access to hot water.
Space-Saving Design
Another great benefit of tankless water heaters is their compact size. Traditional water heaters are bulky, often requiring an entire closet or designated area for installation. In contrast, tankless water heaters are small, often about the size of a laptop bag or small suitcase and can be installed on the wall. This means they take up far less space, freeing up valuable storage or living space in your home.
For homeowners with limited space or those looking to make better use of their home’s layout, this is a huge plus. You can install a tankless unit in tight spots such as a closet, attic, or even an outdoor space, depending on your needs. Their small size allows for more flexibility in where you place them, which is especially helpful if you have a small home or are looking to maximize storage space.
Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters also usually last longer compared to conventional models. Conventional models tend to last 10 to 15 years while the tankless model can last 20 to 25 years or more. This is because they don’t face the same wear and tear as traditional units, which store hot water in a tank that can rust over time.
Because tankless units don’t have a large storage tank, there is less risk of corrosion or sediment buildup, both of which can cause leaks and reduce the lifespan of a water heater. With proper care, a tankless unit can continue to provide reliable service for many years.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the biggest advantages of switching to a tankless water heater is energy efficiency. Since these systems only heat water when you need it, they don’t waste energy by keeping water hot in a tank all day. Tankless water heaters can be up to 35% more energy-efficient than traditional ones.
Energy savings are especially noticeable in households that use a lot of hot water, such as those with larger families or multiple bathrooms. If you have a home where hot water is constantly in use (showers, dishwashing, laundry), a tankless system will save a significant amount on energy costs. It works by using high-efficiency burners and advanced technology to ensure water is heated quickly and efficiently. The longer lifespan of a tankless system also means you won’t have to replace it as often, saving you money in the long run.
In addition to saving energy, many new tankless water heaters come with Wi-Fi features, letting you monitor and control the system remotely. This means you can change the settings to save even more energy based on when and how you use it. Additionally, numerous local utility providers offer rebates or incentives to homeowners who transition to more energy-efficient systems, such as tankless water heaters. Be sure to check with your utility company and local government agency to see if you qualify for any savings or rebates.
Continuous Hot Water
One of the most obvious and popular advantages of tankless water heaters is the continuous supply of hot water. If you’ve ever had to deal with running out of hot water mid-shower or during a load of dishes, you’ll understand just how valuable this feature can be. Tankless units heat water as you need it instead of storing a set amount of hot water in a tank.
This feature is especially useful for larger families or households with multiple people who all need access to hot water. You can enjoy the comfort of knowing that hot water will be available whenever you need it whether you’re taking a long shower or running several appliances simultaneously. This convenience adds a whole new level of comfort to your daily routine.
Eco-Friendly
Tankless water heaters are more eco-friendly than other models. The energy savings not only reduce your utility bills but also reduce your overall carbon footprint. This is an important consideration if you’re looking to make greener choices in your home.
Tankless units are also built to be more efficient, meaning fewer resources are used during manufacturing and operation. Additionally, many modern tankless systems are designed to be recyclable at the end of their life, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
While the benefits of tankless water heaters are clear, it’s important to understand that installing one does come with some considerations. Tankless units require a higher upfront investment compared to traditional models. They may also require specific installation needs, such as upgrading your gas lines or electrical system, depending on the unit and your home’s infrastructure.
Installing a tankless water heater is best left to a professional plumber who has experience with these systems. They’ll ensure that the unit is properly sized for your home’s water usage and that it is installed in the right location. This may involve modifying existing plumbing or adding ventilation, so it’s crucial to have an expert handle the setup.
Tankless water heaters require less upkeep than traditional models, but they still need to be regularly maintained to ensure optimal performance. The most common maintenance task is descaling the unit to prevent mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water. A professional can perform this service every couple of years to keep your system running smoothly.
Call Us to Install Your Tankless Water Heater
Making the switch to a tankless water heater offers a range of benefits, from saving energy to providing a never-ending supply of hot water. Whether you’re looking to reduce your utility bills or simply enjoy more comfort at home, a tankless unit is a smart investment. Our professional team offers heating, cooling and plumbing services, including sewer line repair, air filtration, air duct cleaning, camera inspection, gas line, water heater, pipe repair, and more.
Ready to upgrade to a more efficient water heating system? Contact Perfect, Plumbing Heating & Air in Boise, ID, today and let us help you make the switch.
(208) 556-4991