Are Tankless Water Heaters a Worthwhile Investment?
Today, tankless water heaters are growing in popularity. The idea of a tankless water heater seems great but they are much more expensive than traditional water heating systems. So, are tankless water heaters a worthwhile investment? Making the switch is a big decision for your home and there is no straightforward answer. The answer to that question really depends on your house and lifestyle but these considerations should help you decide what’s right for you.
The initial cost of a tankless water heater can be a major drawback for homeowners. Tankless water heaters can be up to two to three times more expensive than a traditional heater. Of course, putting so much money upfront may not be an option for some. However, the cost of a tankless water heater is not without justification. A tankless system will make up for its cost by saving you money on your energy and heating bills. You can save at least 20% on your water heating bill, which accounts for about 30% of your utility bill. The system won’t pay itself off overnight, but if you are looking for a long term investment, a tankless water heater may be a good option.
Tankless water heaters you are saving money on energy and water heating because of how they operate. With a traditional heater, gallons of water sits inside the tank which is constantly heating the water whether it’s being used or not. To many, this is a waste of heating. In a tankless system, the water is heated on demand, only when you need it.
Additionally, this system offers your home unlimited hot water. The unlimited hot water claim is practical and great for a home where family members may be looking to take back to back showers without losing hot water. However, if you are looking to take simultaneous showers, or maybe take a shower while the dishwasher is running, the proper capacity sizing of your tankless water heating system is important to eliminate the possibility of a shortage of hot water. So it is important to consider the size of your family, your daily needs your water habits and the equipment sizing. Rinnai is a leading manufacturer of tankless systems and it is the brand that R.F. Ohl installs in homes and businesses.
The differences between a traditional water heater and a tankless system can also be seen in their size. A traditional water heater is about 60” tall and 24” wide because it holds around 50 gallons of water at a time. In comparison, a tankless water heater is about the size of a large computer and can be mounted on your wall. So, if space is a premium in your home, a tankless water heater might make the most sense for you.
Tankless water heaters are a great investment for some households. The detaining factor comes down to your needs. If you are looking to save space, make a long term household investment, or have hot water without the waste of heating, a tankless water heater is right for you. And if those needs don’t suit you, a traditional water heater will work just as well to keep your water hot.