Are tankless water heaters really all that great? To find out, let’s first look at how tankless units work. When the hot water tap is turned on, cold water is pumped into the heating unit, where an electric element or gas burner quickly heats the water.
The fact is, homeowners here in northern Indiana and southwest Wisconsin can reduce their water heating bills substantially with tankless water heaters. These units provide savings with the “on demand” feature – water is heated only when needed. Traditional storage heaters use standby energy to keep a stored supply of water hot, which wastes energy and makes your utility bills higher than they need to be.
Tankless models, also called demand or instantaneous, generally provide 2-5 gallons of hot water per minute and don’t run dry like standard heaters. This means, with properly sized and located tankless heaters, no more being doused with cold water in the shower if someone else in the house decides to do a load of laundry. Certain tankless models combine water and space heating for additional savings. For even more savings, most homeowners find that the life expectancy of a tankless is five years or more longer than a standard heater.
Energy Savers has found that homes using 41 gallons or less of hot water daily can be up to 34 percent more energy efficient with tankless water heaters. Households that use about 86 gallons per day can be up to 14 percent more energy efficient. Homeowners with a unit at each hot water outlet can achieve an energy savings of up to 50 percent.
Electric tankless water heaters will have differing requirements in amp draw and gas will have venting requirements. Proper sizing for your family’s needs is very important. Seek advice from your local HVAC professional before making your decision.
Contact the Home Comfort Experts for water heater information. We provide complete HVAC and plumbing advice, installation and service to homeowners in the northern Indiana and southwest Wisconsin areas. Our family run business was founded by a professional with over 30 years experience, and we’re uniquely qualified to provide superior service. Visit our website for information on home comfort issues.