Most hot water heaters require replacement sometime after their sixth year of service. Traditional gas versions begin to wear out after six to eight years, while electric models can usually last between eight and ten years. For a longer-lasting appliance that also cuts your energy costs, consider installing a tankless water heater. You’ll benefit from a heater with at least double the lifespan of standard versions, as well as more energy-efficient water heating for your home.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
This June 2015 article from Angie’s List described a few key benefits of tankless heaters, including access to a never-ending hot water supply provided by an appliance that takes up less space. These products heat incoming water directly using either a gas burner or an electric element. There’s no internal container in which water is collected, so the new hot product is channeled straight through your pipes. The result is a smaller appliance that supplies freshly heated water every time you turn on the tap.
Tankless heaters’ lack of internal storage also eliminates water sitting inside the appliance, along with any possibility for the chemical processes that cause rust and corrosion to even begin. Due to this unique aspect of their construction, these products can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Most varieties typically come with a 15-year warranty, whereas warranties on regular gas or electric models are usually valid for between six and 12 years.
How Do They Save Energy?
The U.S. Department of Energy’s guide to tankless water heaters includes information on their energy efficiency benefits. Because they do not need to store heated water, these products use less energy than their tank-equipped cousins. Depending on your household’s water usage, you can expect to cut your costs anywhere between 24 and 34 percent. Homes with average water usage patterns may see savings of about $100 per year.
Moreover, the Department of Energy suggests placing a demand water heater at each hot water outlet to boost your savings to between 27 and 50 percent. This is especially true for homes with a high daily water consumption rate. Even if you don’t do this, you’ll still benefit by increasing your overall energy efficiency. For families using 86 gallons a day or more, a standard tankless heater installation generally translates to increases between eight and 14 percent.
So…You Want to Install a Tankless Heater
After learning about these potential gains, you might be ready to get on board with a tankless water heater. Instead of attempting a self-install, contact your local Alexandria plumbing professional for a consultation first. You’ll need to work with them to discover the right models for your home, as well as to determine whether your wiring or gas pipelines are ready.
Having a longer-lasting appliance and a constant supply of hot water are just a couple of the advantages of choosing a tankless hot water heater. In addition, you could save significantly on your energy bills each year. Consult with your plumbing professional to ensure that you pick the right products and have the necessary infrastructure to bring one into your home.