If you’re thinking about upgrading your water heater, you may be wondering if a tankless water heater is the right choice for you. Tankless water heaters offer a number of advantages over traditional storage tank water heaters, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of tankless water heaters so you can make an informed decision about whether or not one is right for your home.
Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
1. Energy efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of tankless water heaters is that they are more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters. Tankless water heaters only heat water when you need it, so they don’t waste energy heating water that’s not being used. This can lead to significant energy savings on your water heating bill.
2. Unlimited hot water
Another advantage of tankless water heaters is that they provide unlimited hot water. With a storage-tank water heater, if multiple people are using hot water at the same time, the water can start to run cold. With a tankless water heater, there’s no limit to the amount of hot water you can use.
3. Smaller size
Tankless water heaters are also smaller than traditional storage tank water heaters. This can be a major advantage if you have limited space in your home. Tankless water heaters can be installed in a variety of locations, including in closets, attics, and garages.
4. Long lifespan
Tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, which is much longer than the lifespan of a traditional storage-tank water heater. This means you won’t have to replace your water heater as often, which can save you money in the long run.
Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
1. Higher upfront cost
The biggest disadvantage of tankless water heaters is that they are more expensive to purchase than traditional storage tank water heaters. However, the higher upfront cost is often offset by the energy savings you’ll see over time.
2. Installation requirements
Tankless water heaters also require more complex installation than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they need to be connected to a gas line or an electrical outlet with enough power to support the heater. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, you’ll need to hire a professional plumber or electrician.
3. Noise level
Some tankless water heaters can be noisy, especially when they’re first turned on. If you’re sensitive to noise, you may want to consider a model with a quieter design.
4. Water pressure
Tankless water heaters can also reduce water pressure in your home. This is because they heat water on demand, which can put a strain on your home’s water supply. If you have low water pressure to begin with, a tankless water heater may not be the best option for you.
Making the decision
So, should you get a tankless water heater? It depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient, long-lasting water heater that provides unlimited hot water, a tankless water heater may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re on a tight budget or have low water pressure, a traditional storage-tank water heater may be a better option.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to talk to a plumber or heating and cooling contractor. They can help you assess your needs and choose the right water heater for your home.