More and more homeowners are starting to put tankless water heaters in their homes to be more energy efficient and to save money. Not only are they space-saving pieces of equipment, but they also deliver hot water quickly. There are pros and cons to having a tankless water heater, and in this article, we are going to explore those.
The Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters
- Space-Saver – One of the significant benefits of having a tankless water heater is that the unit can be mounted on the wall. This is a space-saver, especially for those who live in smaller dwellings where closet space is a premium.
- Energy-Saver – Tankless water heaters use 30 to 50 percent less energy than units with tanks, saving a typical family about $100 or more per year. That might not sound like a lot, but over a decade, that works out to $12,000, which is rather significant.
- Longevity – A tank-based system has an average “shelf life” of roughly 8-12 years. A tankless water heater can go 20 years plus before needing to be replaced.
- Never Ending Hot Water – With a tankless system, you’ll never run out of hot water if your unit is sized right for your home and occupants.
Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters
- Up front Investment – There is no hiding it, tankless water heaters are more expensive options than their tank-based cousin. This also means it could take you longer to pay off this investment depending on the type of system installed.
- Not Enough Hot Water – If you plan to go tankless, you’ll want to make sure you express your household needs, so you get one that delivers the hot water needed. In some households, this may require getting a second unit which can get even more expensive. Endless hot water only works if the unit is appropriately sized.
- Hot Water Access – There is a misconception that tankless water heaters deliver hot water “instantaneously.” A tankless water heater can provide a faster hot water experience than most tank-based systems but it’s not immediate. This point is often confused with endless hot water.
- Additional Equipment – Chances are, if you go tankless, you’ll need to invest in a water softener and a way to vent the system outside. These are a cost that many people overlook.
A tankless system is a great way to move into the future and become more mindful of your energy footprint and spend less money along the way. The promise of endless hot water is usually a win for families who have multiple hot water needs. The only caveat is to make sure you get a unit that is sized for your home and occupants.
