The tankless water heater is a revolutionary new technology that’s been gaining popularity over the past few years. It provides hot water on demand, which means you never have to wait for it!
In 2015, more than 10 million tankless water heaters were installed in homes in the United States alone. They’re being used in new homes as well as retrofits of older homes, and they’re quickly becoming the standard in residential construction.
So, if you’re looking to stop wasting water and money, a tankless water heater is the way to go. But there are tons of options out there—and not all of them are created equal.
In this article, Mooresville, NC’s tankless water heater installation expert, will discuss how does a tankless hot water heater work and what you can expect from them. We’ll also look at some of their benefits and downsides so that you can decide if this is the right choice for your home and enjoy limitless hot water without worrying about whether you’ll be able to shower tonight.
What is a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater is a type of water heater that heats the water as it flows through the system instead of storing it in a tank. This means that you never run out of hot water, and your energy costs are significantly lower than other types of heaters.
What does this mean for you?
It means that you can get a tankless water heater installed in your home and have hot water at a simple button push, no matter how many people are showering or taking baths at the same time. It also means that you’ll save money on your monthly bills because there’s no longer any need to use electricity to heat up enough cold water to fill up an entire tank’s worth of it! Instead, when someone turns on their faucet, they’ll be greeted with instant hot water—and not just some lukewarm liquid that needs reheating first!
How Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Tankless water heaters, also known as instantaneous or on-demand water heaters, are a great option for keeping your home or business hot and fresh during cold winter months.
When you want water in your home, you just turn on the tap, and it flows out. You don’t think about how it happens, and neither do most people. But a lot of science is involved in getting that water out of the ground and into your sink.
Here’s an explanation of how does tankless water heater work:
- Water Flow: When you turn on a hot water tap in your home, cold water enters the tankless water heater via an inlet pipe.
- Heat Exchanger: Inside the tankless water heater is a heat exchanger, which is the key component responsible for heating the water. The heat exchanger can be made of copper, stainless steel, or other high-heat-conducting materials.
- Activation: To activate the heating process, the tankless water heater requires a trigger, such as the water flow or the sensor’s activation when a hot water tap is turned on.
- Heating Process: Once activated, the heat exchanger quickly heats the cold water flowing through it. Gas-powered tankless water heaters use burners and a gas supply to heat the water. Do you know how does an electric tankless water heater work? Electric tankless water heaters use electric heating elements.
- Temperature Control: Tankless water heaters typically have temperature controls that enable you to set the desired hot water temperature. The water passing through the heat exchanger is continuously monitored and adjusted to maintain the desired temperature.
- Continuous Flow: As long as there is a demand for hot water, the tankless water heater will continue to heat the water on demand. This means you can have a continuous supply of hot water without a storage tank need.
- Flow Rate and Limitations: Tankless water heaters have a maximum flow rate that determines the amount of hot water they can provide at a given time. If the demand exceeds the flow rate capacity, the water heater may struggle to maintain the desired temperature.
- Shut-off: When you turn off the hot water tap, the tankless water heater detects the decrease in flow and shuts off the heating process. This helps save energy compared to traditional tank-type water heaters, which continuously heat and store water even when not in use.
Types of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are a great option for homeowners with limited space or wanting to conserve energy. They offer space-saving, energy-efficient, and cost-effective solutions for domestic hot water needs.
The best part? They come in various sizes and shapes, which makes them ideal for use in homes, offices, and other buildings with varying demands on hot water.
So, there are basically two main types of tankless water heaters: electric tankless water heaters and gas tankless water heaters. Let’s explore each type of tankless water heater how does it work in more detail:
Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Electric tankless water heaters are the most common type of tankless water heater. They use electricity to heat the water, so they are perfect for use with solar power systems. Electric tankless water heaters are very energy efficient and cost-effective to operate. They can also be used in smaller spaces where traditional electric or gas appliances would not fit well. However, electric tankless water heaters require an electrical outlet to operate correctly.
Gas Tankless Water Heaters
Gas-powered tankless water heaters use gas to heat the water instead of electricity or propane. This type of tankless water heater is typically cheaper than an electric one but requires installing a gas line in order for it to work properly. Gas-powered tankless water heaters also require more maintenance than other types because they need more frequent checks on their valves and burners in order to ensure that they continue operating properly over time (which can be costly).
If you are wondering, “Do electric tankless water heaters work better than tank water heaters? Then we’ve got the answer for you.
Here’s a comparison chart highlighting the key differences between electric tankless water heaters and gas tankless water heaters so that you can understand them in detail:
| Aspect | Electric Tankless Water Heaters | Gas Tankless Water Heaters |
| Power Source | Electricity | Natural gas or propane |
| Energy Efficiency | Highly efficient, it converts almost all energy to heat | Generally more energy-efficient than tank-type heaters |
| Flow Rate | Lower flow rates compared to gas models | Higher flow rates, suitable for high-demand households |
| Installation Flexibility | Can be installed in various locations, flexible | Requires professional installation, ventilation |
| Upfront Cost | Lower upfront cost compared to gas models | Higher upfront cost |
| Operating Cost | Relatively higher operating cost | Lower operating cost compared to electric models |
| Ventilation | No need to vent | Requires proper ventilation for exhaust gases |
| Lifespan | Generally shorter lifespan compared to gas models | Longer lifespan |
| Maintenance Requirements | Minimal maintenance requirements | May require periodic maintenance and descaling |
| Availability and Utility Connection | Widely available, suitable for most households | Requires access to natural gas or propane supply |
| Environmental Impact | Lower greenhouse gas emissions | Produces combustion byproducts and greenhouse gas emissions (natural gas) |
The Difference Between A Tankless Water Heater Vs. Tank Type Water Heater
Water heaters are the most common heating system in homes. They supply hot water for many uses, including showers, dishwashers, and washing machines. A water heater is a storage tank that holds hot water until it is needed. It heats the water to a temperature that is set by you and then keeps it at that temperature until you need it.
There are two types of water heaters: tankless and tank-type. They both work in different ways, so let’s take a look at how each water heater differ from each other:
Here’s a comparison chart highlighting the key differences between tankless water heaters and tank-type water heaters:
| Aspect | Tankless Water Heater | Tank-Type Water Heater |
| Operation | Heats water on demand | Stores and heats water continuously in a tank |
| Hot Water Supply | Provides continuous hot water | Limited hot water capacity based on tank size |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient | Less energy-efficient |
| Space Requirement | Compact size saves space | Requires significant space for the tank |
| Lifespan | Longer lifespan | Shorter lifespan |
| Installation | Typically more complex and may require upgrades | Simpler installation requires a dedicated space |
| Upfront Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower upfront cost |
| Maintenance | Lower maintenance requirements | Regular maintenance required (flushing, replacing) |
| Long-Term Cost Savings | Potential energy savings over time | Higher energy costs due to standby heat loss |
| Simultaneous Usage | Can handle multiple hot water demands | Limited simultaneous usage depending on tank size |
| Environmental Impact | Lower greenhouse gas emissions | Higher greenhouse gas emissions (gas-powered) |
7 Benefits of Tankless Water Heater
If you’re looking for a way to save money on your water bill, skip the tankless water heater!
Tankless water heaters have many benefits that make them a great choice for any homeowner. Read on to learn more about what tankless water heaters can do for you.
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters require less energy as compared to traditional tank water heaters. Tankless models are able to heat water as it passes through, which is far more efficient than the way tank-type models work. A tankless model can deliver between 50-70% more hot water than a comparable tank-type model.
Continuous Hot Water Supply
Tankless models maintain a continuous hot water supply rather than just heating it up when needed. This means that if you want to take a long shower or do laundry, you won’t have to wait a second for your hot water heater to reheat the water in between uses like you would with a tank-type model. This saves energy and money because it reduces the heater’s waiting time to operate each day.
Space-Saving Models
Tankless water heaters are designed to be more compact than traditional tank-style units, which means they occupy less space and can fit in more places. This is especially important if you live in a small home or apartment, but it also helps if you have limited storage space in your yard or garage. With a tankless water heater, you’ll never have to worry about having too little space to store it.
Longevity
Tankless water heaters last longer than traditional tank-type tanks. The average lifespan of a tankless unit is 20 years, compared to 8-10 years for a typical tank.
Reduced Risk of Water Damage
Because the system heats water as it’s needed and not stored in a tank, there is far less risk that your family will be exposed to contaminated or impure water. In fact, one of the major benefits of tankless units is their ability to reduce the chances of mold growing inside your house due to improper storage of hot water.
Customizable Temperature Control
A tankless water heater provides customizable temperature control, so you can quickly adjust the temperature of your shower to suit your needs. This means no more turning off the hot water at night to avoid wasting water or ensuring you’re never too hot or cold in the shower.
Environmental Impact
Traditional heating systems use natural gas or electrical energy to heat water stored in a tank before distributing it throughout your home via pipes running through walls and ceilings. The tankless system heats water directly as needed using natural gas or electricity instead of storing it in large tanks first. This means less energy usage overall and less environmental impact per household! It also means less maintenance for homeowners.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tankless Water Heater
Choosing a tankless water heater can be a tricky process. There are many different models and brands available, each offering its unique set of benefits. In order to make the best decision, you should consider a number of factors. Here are some key factors to consider:
Household Size and Water Demand
Before you even think about tankless water heater installation, it’s important to consider how many family members in your household are going to be using hot water at any given time. Tankless water heaters don’t store hot water as traditional storage tanks do; instead, they heat it when it’s needed. If you have a large family or a lot of appliances that use hot water (like a dishwasher or washing machine), then a tankless system is the perfect choice for you.
Temperature Rise and Flow Rate Requirements
Another thing to keep in mind when considering a tankless heater is whether or not your current pipes can support the temperature rise that comes with using one of these devices. In general, if your existing pipes can handle temperatures up to 120°F (49°C), they should be fine with a tankless system installed on top of them. If they can’t handle this heat, you’ll want to talk with a tankless water heater installation before installing one of these devices in your home.
Energy Efficiency Ratings and Savings
Tankless water heaters come with energy efficiency ratings (or EERs) that measure their energy efficiency and ability to save thousands of dollars on your utility bills each month. The higher the rating, the more efficient it is at heating water without using much energy. For example, an EER of 15 is considered good for most homes; an EER of 20 or higher is considered great and can help you save hundreds of dollars yearly on utility bills compared to an old-fashioned tank top model, which only has an EER of 8 or 10!
The average American household uses 40-60 gallons of hot water per day, as per a recent study by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). If you have an older storage-type heater (one with an insulating jacket around its tank), you might use up to 80 gallons daily! That’s why switching to a tankless unit can make such a big difference in your energy bills—and why it’s worth investing in one if you’re looking for ways to save money around the house.
Installation Considerations
Determine the tankless water heater installation requirements. Consider factors such as available space, ventilation needs (gas models), electrical capacity (electric models), and professional installation. Ensure that your home meets the necessary requirements for the chosen tankless water heater model.
Available Fuel Type
Tankless water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. The fuel type you choose will determine what kind of system you need to install, so make sure you know your home’s needs before buying.
Upfront and Long-Term Costs
Before you make your purchase, think about how much money you’re willing to spend on a tankless water heater installation and how much energy it will cost over its lifetime. You should also look at whether there are any rebates available for installing energy-efficient appliances in your home.
Maintenance and Service Requirements
Consider the tankless water heater maintenance and servicing needs. Some models require periodic descaling or flushing to prevent mineral buildup. Gas models may require venting inspections or cleaning. Understand the maintenance requirements and ensure you are willing to fulfill them for optimal performance and longevity.
Warranty and Customer Support
It’s important to choose a model with the right warranty in mind. Some companies offer lifetime warranties on their products, while others only offer one year or two years of coverage. You may also want to consider how long the company has been around and how responsive they are if something really goes wrong with your product.
FAQs
Are you a homeowner looking for a water heater that can heat water quickly and efficiently but should not cost you an arm and a leg in electricity?
You’ve come to the right place. Here are some FAQs about tankless water heaters:
Ready to Upgrade Your Water Heater? Call Professionals for Tankless Water Heater Installation in Mooresville, NC!
Tankless water heaters are a great way to save money on your utility bills and reduce the amount of energy you use.
If you’re considering installing a tankless water heater in your home, it’s important to know who to call. You want someone who has experience with these types of systems so they can help you get the most out of it.
That’s why we are here.
Wicker Trade Service Inc is an experienced company specializing in Tankless Water Heaters in Mooresville, NC. We have been helping customers with plumbing needs since 2002 and have installed more than 20,000 tankless systems across North Carolina. We know what it takes to get the job done right!
We offer services like:
– Tankless Water Heater Installation
– Tankless Water Heater Repair
– Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
– Gas Water Heater Repair
– Gas Water Heater Maintenance
– Gas Water Heater Installation
– Electric Water Heater Repair
– Electric Water Heater Installation
– Electric Water Heater Maintenance
Our team of licensed and skilled technicians will also help you choose the perfect system for your home or business, install it quickly and efficiently, and even provide maintenance services that can extend the life of your new tankless heater.
We offer competitive rates and will work with you to find a solution that fits within your budget. In addition to our competitive rates and unmatched customer service, we also provide 24/7 emergency services, so you will never have to stress about whether or not somebody will be there when you need them most.
Whether installing a tankless water heater or replacing an old one with a new one, we’ll work hard to make sure that everything goes in a smooth manner from start to finish so that you don’t have any issues with your new system.
So, if you’re looking for a professional tankless water heater installation company in Mooresville, NC, and the surrounding area, don’t hesitate to call us at (704) 340-4810!