Traditional tank-style water heaters have been around for over hundred years and work by using a gas burner or electric heating element to keep a large volume of water heated so there is enough water to supply an entire household. Keeping a large tank of water heated continuously takes a lot of energy. In addition, when demand for hot water in the home exceeds the capacity of the tank, the result is a unpleasantly cold shower.
The Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater, also called an on-demand water heater, solves the two drawbacks of the tank water heater, the limited capacity of the tank and the energy use of continually keeping the storage tank heater. By heating water only when needed, rather than maintaining a full tank of hot water at all times, tankless water heaters operate with greater efficiency than standard tank-type water heaters.
Tankless water heaters will last about five to 10 years longer than a conventional tank heater. They also take up much less space and provide you with a virtually unlimited amount of hot water.
What are the downsides of a tankless water heater?
A tankless system can cost up to three times as much as a tank-style heater. Tankless systems are also more technologically advanced and therefore can be more complicated to install than traditional water heaters, which is reflected in the higher cost of installation. However, the initial higher cost is offset by the greater efficiency and longer lifespan of the tankless unit.
Here’s how a tankless water heater works:
- When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water is drawn into the water heater.
- A sensor detects the flow of water and activates a gas burner, which warms a heat exchanger.
- The flow of cold water circulates around the heat exchanger and exits the water heater at its set-point temperature.
Have questions about tankless water heaters? Call ABC Plumbing, Heating Cooling and Electric. We’re here to help.