Now that you've started thinking about your next water heater, you're probably questioning whether you want an 'ol tank type water heater or a tankless water heater. Let's compare.
Some (teenage) members of your family may like to take loooong showers. When it's your turn for your morning shower, brace yourself for the big chill!
With any water heater, the trick is to make certain that you don't run out of hot water. With a tank type heater, you'll be waiting well into your morning or evening for it to heat up again. Plus, when you're at work or on vacation, your tank is still working to heat the water (even if you aren't using it). So, take a look at your utility bill. We'll be willing to guess that your water heater contributes 13-17% of energy consumption in your home.
Because they only use energy when hot water is being used, tankless water heaters will likely save you more money over their expected life of 20 years than they will cost you initially. Besides energy efficiency, tankless water heaters take up less space, are easy to maintain and are more convenient to operate.
Rather than waiting for the 'ol tank to heat more water, with a tankless water heater, you can jump into the shower right after that certain family member's looong shower or use the shower down the hall at the same time and STILL HAVE HOT WATER.
Tankless water heaters are dependable regardless of whether the home uses gas or electricity to heat the heater. There is no standby heat loss because there is no energy used to keep water hot. There is no concern for running out of hot water in the middle of the shower.
The payback period for tankless water heaters is 3-7 years depending on how much hot water you use and the cost of energy in your area. The smaller amount of hot water that you use, the faster the payoff.
The expected life of a tankless water heater is 20 years or more (which, most tank type users probably know that you'll have gone through two water tanks in 20 years). The best part is that tankless units are serviceable (and even a less technical-savvy person can service a unit with the help of The Tankless Experts).
Tankless water heaters are 80%-99% energy efficient, whereas tanks are only 40-50% energy efficient. Tankless water heaters are ENERGY STAR qualified and most gas units qualify for local utility credits, as well as the Federal Tax Credit for up to $1500!
We're not being biased--we're just being honest. The benefits of installing a tankless water heater are countless. it might seem strange that something that improves your quality of life can also help you live a greener life. But hey, it's true!
