The rise of energy costs and the continual push towards eco-friendliness have led homeowners to seek efficient alternatives for heating water. Among the frontrunners in this race towards efficiency are tankless water heaters. Unlike traditional tank heaters, tankless models heat water on-demand, which can lead to significant energy savings. Here’s an insight into how tankless water heaters work and the myriad of benefits they offer.
How Tankless Water Heaters work
Tankless water heaters, as the name suggests, do not store hot water for later use. Instead, they heat water directly as it flows through the unit, providing hot water only as it is needed. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe and into the unit where it is heated by either a gas burner or electric coils, and then delivered directly to the point of use. This on-demand heating mechanism eliminates the standby heat loss associated with traditional water heaters, thereby increasing efficiency.
Benefits of going Tankless
Energy efficiency
- Tankless water heaters are lauded for their energy efficiency as they eliminate the need to continually heat a tank of water, reducing energy consumption.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 8% to 50% more energy-efficient compared to traditional tank-style water heaters depending on the amount of hot water used per day.
Cost savings
- The energy savings translate to cost savings on utility bills over time. Switching from a tank-style water heater to a tankless model can save an average family of four about $100 per year, or over $1,500 throughout the lifetime of the system.
Continuous hot water supply
- One of the significant advantages of tankless water heaters is the continuous supply of hot water, ensuring you never run out of hot water in the middle of a shower.
Longer lifespan
- Tankless units have a longer lifespan, often lasting five to 10 years longer than tank heaters, making them a more durable choice.
Space-Saving
- Due to their compact size, tankless water heaters can be installed in tight spaces, including closets and utility rooms, or even mounted on walls, saving valuable space in your home.
Federal Tax Rebates
- Many tankless units come with a federal tax rebate of $300, providing an additional financial incentive for making the switch.
Tankless water heaters are not just a modern convenience but a step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective way of living. Their on-demand heating functionality, coupled with the potential for long-term energy and cost savings, makes them an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade their water heating systems. As we continue to tread on the path of eco-conscious living, embracing technologies like tankless water heaters is a prudent step forward.