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Without the need for a large tank and with reduced energy costs, tankless water heaters are rising in popularity all over the United States. For your next plumbing remodel, consider the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a this type of energy efficient heater.
How They Work
A plumber can install a small tankless water heater in your home to allow you to have an on-demand hot water supply. When turned on, water flows at a rate of 2 to 10 gallons per minute into the heater through a section of heat elements and out to your faucet. As a result of the heat exchangers, there is no need to wait for a traditional storage tank to fill with hot water.
Types of Tankless Heaters
Tankless water heaters come in gas and electric options. Many plumbing contractors agree that when choosing, consider the type of energy used to power your home and your hot water usage.
For your plumbing remodel, consider both the voltage and amperage requirements of an electric heater. Have a plumber make sure your circuit breaker can support it, or if you will need one or more dedicated circuits.
A gas heater generally produces a greater flow rate than an electric. However, according to many plumbing contractors, homeowners have a lot more to take into consideration if they choose this option for a plumbing remodel. Some considerations are whether the house uses propane or natural gas, if the gas lines meet the gas flow demand needs of the water heater and the venting requirements of the unit. Due to water vapor in the exhaust of a tankless heater, a standard B vent pipe may rust. Most units today require either PVC plastic venting or stainless steel venting.
Other Considerations
A plumber will recommend you consider the hot water demands of the specific water fixtures in your home when choosing your tankless hot water system. Large units are available to meet the needs of your entire home, while smaller heaters are available for single-point use, such as an outside sink.
You also need to consider your home’s incoming water temperature. According to plumbing contractors, water sources coming into a home average about 60 degrees. The safe upper limit on water temperature is 120 degrees as set by city code. Therefore, your unit will need to raise the water temperature approximately 60 degrees. You may need different sizes of tankless water heaters depending on your home’s hot water usage.
Benefits of Tankless Heaters
- Hot water on demand. Tankless systems heat water when you need it.
- Safety. Tankless water heaters allow you to set the max water temperature, reducing the risk of scalding.
- Energy efficient. Installing a tankless water heater during your plumbing remodel provides 8 to 50 percent more efficiency than a standard heater, saving energy and money.
- Size. Tankless systems take up significantly less room than traditional tanks.
Drawbacks of Tankless Heaters
- No stored hot water . In a power outage, your home won’t have any hot water available.
- Cost. A tankless water heater for your plumbing remodel can be expensive.
- Maintenance. You will need to prevent the buildup of scale as an on-going maintenance requirement.
If you are considering a plumbing remodel or need a new water heater, a tankless water heater can save you both money and energy. And as with any large project, consult a plumber about the best options for your home.