TANKLESS WATER HEATERS

 

THE BENEFITS

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand. They have long been common in Europe and Japan, and are growing in popularity in Canada and the United States because they can supply an endless stream of hot water, use less energy than a traditional hot water tank (HWT), and are made to last 20+ years.

Tankless water heaters are also referred to as instantaneous water heaters. The principle behind them is that whenever a hot water valve is opened, cold water travels through a pipe in the heating unit and a gas burner or electric elementheating device is activated by the flow of water and heats it.

Tankless water heaters can be supplementary units placed at the point of use (kitchen sink, bathroom sink, etc) or can replace conventional tank water heaters. Because tankless water heaters don't have the losses associated with tanks, their energy factors are normally higher (although well-insulated, ultraefficient
tank heaters also have high energy factors

 

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A TANKLESS SYSTEM

Besides energy efficiency, tankless water heaters are much smaller, and are easy to maintain and operate. They are also well adapted for use as a heat booster for a solar water heater. But there are some things to consider before trading in your conventional HWT for a new tankless system.

Tankless water heaters can be very cost effective because unlike conventional hot water tanks (HWT), they do not use energy to maintain water temperature in a tank. Tankless systems

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

only use energy when hot water is being used; in fact you will likely save more money over their expected life span than the system will initially cost you. One of the best times to install a tankless heater is when your conventional HWT needs replacement. Keep in mind that the cost of a tankless system often goes beyond its initial price tag. You’ll likely need to hire a qualified technician with experience installing tankless water heaters. As well you may need to upgrade energy supply lines. Need help determining this? Contact us!

 

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST CHOICE

Although they theoretically provide endless hot water, most tankless water heaters provide it more slowly than conventional HWT’s. This limits the number of sources that can draw hot water at one time. Therefore it’s important to pick the right size.

When choosing a tankless model, be sure that flow rates will meet your peak demand at the temperature rise you need. Choose an appropriate model based on peak demand, incoming water temperature, and desired outgoing water temperature. Most units advertised as "whole-house" will provide 2 to 3 gallons per minute(gpm) of hot water at a 70°F. Choose the model of water heater closest to your flow rate and temperature rise needs. For more info please contact us!