A tankless water heater can save on energy costs and provide clean, hot water faster. However, intermittent use applications can suffer from a longer delay between initial heat and water that is actually hot. This problem is generally not a concern with showers or dishwashers. However, this disadvantage can be a concern for other household applications where water is frequently used, such as laundry or dishwashing machines. Here are some of the things to keep in mind if you’re considering switching to a tankless water heater.
Cost
If you’re looking to replace your existing water heater, you might be wondering how much it costs to install a tankless water heater. Installing a tankless water heater requires a plumber and it can range from $500 to $2,000. The price of the tankless water heater depends on the fuel type you choose. Electric and natural gas models are the most affordable options, but solar and tankless systems can cost several thousand dollars or more. You should also factor in additional expenses like hiring a carpenter or handyman to remove existing walls and build access panels. Other expenses include heat pumps, pipes, permits, taxes, and more.
Installation
If you’re planning to install a tankless water heater in your home, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps to make the installation go smoothly. For starters, you’ll want to make sure that the unit is properly grounded, and that it has an electric supply. Next, make sure that a drain pan is installed beneath the unit to prevent water damage and runoff. Finally, you’ll need to perform a flush to remove air from the pipelines. Or hire a professional plumbing company to help you.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintaining your tankless water heater, regular maintenance is essential. This is due to the fact that the heat exchanger is prone to deposits of calcium, which slow down the heat transfer process and make the water take longer to heat up. To remove these deposits and restore the efficiency of your tankless water heater, perform an acid flush annually. Listed below are some tips on how to maintain your tankless water heater.
Health problems
If you use a tankless water heater, you might notice that your water has an odd taste or odor. If you notice a metallic odor in your water, it could be an indicator that your tankless water heater is leaking. The same holds true if you notice rust-colored water. High levels of iron in water can cause toxic effects. Call a plumber to check the water heater for problems.
Flow rate
The flow rate of a tankless water heater is important for two reasons. First, it helps you determine how much hot water you need at any one time. A tankless water heater must provide at least 5.0 GPM in order to be effective. Secondly, the flow rate should be high enough to heat water that is colder than the surrounding temperature. This is not always possible, however, so it is necessary to consider different factors.
Energy savings
While a storage tank water heater will cost less initially, the energy savings of a tankless unit are considerable. Energy bills can decrease by up to 34 percent with a tankless water heater. The savings increase with the amount of hot water used, but a tankless unit can save as much as 14 percent more energy per year, depending on the size of your home. However, you should note that the energy savings do not apply to larger households that use more hot water than a single unit.
If you need help with a new tankless water heater or a tankless water heater repair in Gilbert, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler or the surrounding areas contact us for help.
