We’re here to help you understand on-demand water heaters. They are also called tankless water heaters. These systems give you hot water only when you need it.
They are good for saving energy and helping the planet. You get hot water all the time without a big tank.
On-demand water heaters are 24%–34% more energy efficient. They are best for homes using 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. They heat water right when you need it, so you don’t have to wait.
They can give you hot water at 2–5 gallons per minute. This is great for any size household.
We want to help you make smart choices for your home’s water heater. Whether you need a new one or to replace an old one, we’re here to guide you. Let’s explore on-demand water heaters together. We’ll look at gas and electric models and how they can save you money.
What is an On-Demand Water Heater and How Does It Work?
We’re excited to talk about on-demand water heaters. They are a big change for many homeowners. When you turn on the faucet, cold water goes through a heat exchanger. There, it gets hot from a gas burner or electric element.
This makes hot water always available. You don’t need a big storage tank.
The main parts of a tankless water heater are the heat exchanger, burner or electric element, and controls. These parts work together. They give you hot water when you need it, making them efficient and easy to use.
There are gas and electric models. Each has its own good points and things to think about.
Some great things about on-demand water heaters are:
- They use less energy because they only heat water when needed.
- They save space because they don’t need a big storage tank.
- They last longer, up to 20 years, compared to old storage water heaters.
Exploring on-demand water heaters is important. Knowing how they work and their benefits helps you choose the best one for your home.
With the right on-demand water heater, you get hot water all the time. You also save money on energy and help the environment. If you need to replace an old water heater or get a new one, we’re here to help.
| Type of On-Demand System | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Gas-Powered | High flow rates, energy efficient | Requires gas line installation, higher upfront cost |
| Electric | Lower upfront cost, easy installation | Lower flow rates, may require multiple units |
Benefits of Tankless Water Heating Technology
Choosing the right water heater can be hard. We want to tell you about tankless water heaters. They are energy efficient. This means they use less energy than old water heaters, saving you money.
Tankless water heaters also give you continuous hot water. This is great for big families or homes with many showers. Plus, they take up less space, making your home feel bigger.
Some big benefits of tankless water heaters are:
- They use less energy
- They save you money on bills
- They always have hot water
- They save space
- They last up to 20 years
Switching to a tankless water heater brings many benefits. They are energy efficient and always have hot water. This makes them a smart choice for your home.
Gas vs. Electric On-Demand Water Heaters
Choosing between gas and electric on-demand water heaters is important. Think about how efficient they are. Gas heaters are often better, giving hot water all the time. But, electric ones are cheaper to start and easier to keep up.
Gas heaters can make a lot of hot water, up to 10 gallons a minute. Electric ones make less, 2 to 5 gallons a minute. This means gas heaters are better for big families. Electric ones are good for small homes or those using less hot water.
Here are some key points to consider when choosing between gas and electric on-demand water heaters:
- Gas-powered on-demand water heaters have higher flow rates and are more suitable for larger households.
- Electric on-demand water heaters are more cost-effective for smaller households or those with lower hot water needs.
- Gas-powered models require venting for exhaust, which adds complexity and cost to installation.
- Electric models have lower initial costs and simpler maintenance requirements.
In conclusion, the choice between gas and electric on-demand water heaters depends on your needs. Think about efficiency, flow rate, and upkeep. This will help you pick the best one for your home.
Installation Requirements and Considerations
When you get a new on-demand water heater, there are important things to think about. It’s key to install it right for it to work well and safely. You should get a licensed plumber to do the job. They know the local rules for plumbing and electricity.
Some things to remember when installing include:
* Make sure the water heater is level and all connections are tight
* You might need to upgrade gas lines for tankless water heaters
* Follow local codes for safety and efficiency
* Get rid of the old water heater the right way
Also, think about what your on-demand water heater needs. For electric ones, you need a special power supply. And for gas ones, you need good venting and gas flow. Planning and doing the installation right means your water heater will work well for a long time.
Always follow the maker’s instructions and local rules when installing a water heater. With the right installation and care, you’ll get hot water when you need it and save on energy bills.
Cost Analysis: Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings
When looking at the on-demand water heater cost, think about the initial investment and long-term savings. The cost to buy and install a tankless water heater is more than traditional ones. But, you can save money over time.
A study by 1st Choice Plumbing, Heating, and Air shows tankless water heaters save 22% more energy. This means big long-term savings, with energy costs 27-50% lower.
Here are some important things to think about when looking at the on-demand water heater cost:
- Average cost of electric point-of-use tankless water heaters: $145 – $250
- Average cost of electric whole-house tankless water heaters: $500 – $800
- Average cost of gas point-of-use tankless water heaters: $230 and up
- Average cost of gas whole-house tankless water heaters: $750 – $2,300
By looking at these points and comparing the initial investment to long-term savings, you can decide if a tankless water heater is good for you.
Maintenance and Longevity
Keeping your on-demand water heater in good shape is key. It can last up to 25 years, much longer than tank water heaters. To keep it running well, do routine tasks like descaling and cleaning filters.
Regular care stops big problems and saves money. Not cleaning it can make it use more energy. By taking care of it, you can save 8-14% on energy costs.
Some important tasks include:
- Descaling every 6-12 months to remove mineral deposits
- Inlet screen filter cleaning every 3-6 months to prevent debris accumulation
- Flushing and draining the unit every 6-12 months to remove sediment
- Annual valve maintenance to ensure all components function correctly
By focusing on maintenance, your water heater will last longer. It will work better and save you money on bills.
Sizing Your On-Demand Water Heater
To get the most from your on-demand water heater, picking the right size is key. Think about how much hot water you need and how fast it should flow. The size you choose depends on your family size, bathroom count, and water temperature.
Figuring out your hot water needs means knowing the most you’ll use at once. For example, a family of four with two bathrooms might need 8 gallons per minute. It’s also important to think about how fast you need hot water to flow.
Factors to Consider
- Number of people in your household
- Number of bathrooms
- Desired water temperature
- Flow rate requirements
By looking at these points and picking the right size, you’ll always have hot water ready. Don’t forget about the temperature rise, as it affects how well your heater works. The right size and type of on-demand water heater means endless hot water and saves energy.
Conclusion: Is an On-Demand Water Heater Right for Your Home?
On-demand water heaters are a smart choice for many homes. They give you hot water when you need it and save energy. This makes them a great option compared to old storage-tank water heaters.
These heaters are small and save space, perfect for homes with little room. They can last up to 20 years or more. But, they cost more upfront and might be harder to install.
Choosing between a traditional or on-demand heater depends on your needs. Think about how much hot water you use and your energy goals. Talk to a plumber to find the best heater for your home and save energy.
