The Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

When it comes to upgrading your home’s water heating system, one option that’s growing in popularity is the tankless water heater. Also known as on-demand water heaters, these units provide hot water only when it’s needed, without the need for a storage tank. While tankless water heaters offer several advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making the switch.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of tankless water heaters to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Tankless Water Heaters

1. Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest benefits of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Traditional water heaters continuously heat and store large amounts of water, which can lead to significant energy waste. In contrast, tankless water heaters only heat water when it’s needed. This means they don’t suffer from standby energy losses, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters in homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily.

2. Unlimited Hot Water Supply

Unlike traditional tank heaters that can run out of hot water after a few showers, tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water. This is particularly advantageous for larger families or households where multiple people need to shower in a short period. With a tankless system, you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water again, as long as the unit is sized correctly for your household’s needs.

3. Space-Saving Design

Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional water heaters with large storage tanks. Their compact design allows them to be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable floor space in your home. This is especially beneficial for smaller homes or apartments where space is limited. Additionally, since they don’t have a bulky tank, tankless units can often be installed in areas like closets or utility rooms with minimal space.

4. Longer Lifespan

On average, tankless water heaters last significantly longer than traditional tank water heaters. A typical tank water heater lasts around 10-15 years, while a tankless unit can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This longer lifespan can make tankless water heaters a worthwhile investment for homeowners planning to stay in their homes for the long term.

Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

1. Higher Upfront Costs

One of the primary downsides of tankless water heaters is their higher initial cost. Tankless units are generally more expensive to purchase and install than traditional tank water heaters. In addition to the cost of the unit itself, installation may require upgrades to your home’s electrical or gas systems, further increasing the cost. However, the long-term savings on energy bills can offset this initial investment over time.

2. Limited Hot Water Output

While tankless water heaters provide unlimited hot water, they can struggle to supply multiple hot water demands at once, especially in larger households. For example, running a shower and a washing machine simultaneously may exceed the unit’s capacity, causing a decrease in water temperature. To overcome this, homeowners may need to install multiple units to meet high hot water demand, which increases costs.

3. Installation Complexity

Installing a tankless water heater can be more complicated than installing a traditional tank unit. The process may require professional assistance to modify your home’s plumbing and, depending on the model, upgrade electrical or gas lines to accommodate the increased power demand. This can add to the overall cost and time required for installation.

4. Maintenance Requirements

Although tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional models, they do require regular maintenance to operate efficiently. Over time, mineral buildup can occur, especially in areas with hard water, which can affect the heater’s performance. To avoid this, homeowners need to perform routine descaling and maintenance, which may require professional service.

Upgrade Your Home’s Hot Water System with Our Expert Plumbing Services!

Tankless water heaters offer several appealing benefits, including energy efficiency, unlimited hot water, and a longer lifespan. However, they also come with some challenges, such as higher upfront costs and the potential for limited hot water output during peak usage times. When deciding whether a tankless water heater is right for your home, it’s important to weigh these pros and cons based on your household’s hot water needs, budget, and long-term goals.

Reach out to Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions today at (480) 526-5030 for expert consultations.