If you have ever had to wait for hot water in the shower, you know how frustrating it can be. Considering that there are more than two million homes with traditional tanked water heaters in the United States alone, it’s no surprise that the popularity of the tankless water heater is on the rise. You will never have to wait for hot water again with a tankless water heater.

A tankless water heater is a good option for homes that want an environmentally friendly way to heat their hot water. This type of heater heats the cold water you’re using when you need it rather than storing it in a large tank until someone is ready to take a shower.

What’s more, these tankless water heaters save homeowners money because they need less fuel and electricity than traditional storage tanks do. If you are looking for an energy-efficient alternative to your current heating system, then read on!

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?

Tankless water heaters don’t store any heated water when they’re turned off, so when you turn them on to shower, there is no wait time before the steam starts to flow.

They heat cold water instantly and then give it off in moderate temperatures each time you need it. These systems use much less energy than conventional models because they only keep heating new hot water as needed. One of the significant advantages of a tankless water heater is its size and the electrical efficiency it delivers.

A tankless heater can be conveniently mounted on a wall because it doesn’t require a tank to hold water. This feature allows homeowners to save space. It also makes it easier to hide a tankless heater compared to a traditional storage tank.

While water heaters with a storage tank can supply hot water until the tank is empty, a tankless water heater can provide a constant flow of hot water at a rate of 2 to 5 gallons per minute to a residential home.

Some gas-powered tankless heaters can pump out even more water than electric heaters because they use less water per minute on average than a storage tank heater; but, storage tank heaters are more prone to run out of hot water, mainly when numerous sources are using it at the same time.

Differences Between Gas Tankless and Electric Water Heaters

You might not think there’s much difference between electric and gas tankless water heaters. The fact is, they’re both hot and ready in a flash when you turn on the tap at your sink or shower. However, comparing these heating systems will show that gas is the way to go for versatility and will cost less in the long run.

Tankless water heaters work by heating water as it flows through a small pipe, so you only use what you need and don’t waste energy. With electric tankless units, the electricity is on all the time. If you run out of hot water halfway through your shower, more water will continue to flow into the heater and sit there, waiting to be heated. However, the ignition button turns on with gas models only when you’re ready for hot water.

Running out of hot water with an electric unit means wasting energy because it’s heating water that flows through the system. You’ll need a larger electric heater to compensate for all the wasted power, and gas heaters are more efficient. You’ll pay extra for that larger, less-efficient unit because of the increased energy costs.

You’ll pay more for a tankless gas heater initially, but it’s worth the cost. On average, you’ll spend less than half of what you’d spend on an electric model over 10 years. Gas models are also easier to install and use, so if you hire professional technicians, they will get the job done within a short time. Plus, if you already have a gas line to your house, you’ll have everything you need.

Electric units are for people who do not want the cost of installation or upkeep of a gas hot water system. People with gas lines can use either heating method, but an electric unit is necessary if you don’t have the proper pipe configuration.

A gas tankless water heater will save you even more money over time when you consider installation costs. Electric models can be expensive to install if they require a particular circuit or your home is not up to the current electrical code.

Advantages of the Tankless System Over Conventional Heaters

When comparing the two, you’ll find the tankless system offers more advantages. Here are some.

  • Lower energy costs
  • Instant hot water
  • Saves you space in the house
  • Longer lifespan than conventional heaters

Disadvantages of the Tankless System vs Conventional Systems

There are a few downsides to gas tankless heating, but none of them are deal-breakers. You might have to wait for a moment or two for hot water if someone uses all the hot water in the house before you get home from work. Electric models can also do this, though because they’re always on, it happens more frequently with electric units.

The only other drawback for gas tankless models is the initial cost – they cost about 25% more than an electric system. But you’ll make that money back in less than five years through lower energy bills. You will also have to worry about repairs or replacements less often because gas tankless water heaters last longer than their electric counterparts.

Suppose you want a hot shower and don’t want to waste gas. Invest in a gas tankless water heater so you can use less energy and pay less on your utility bills over time, for years to come.

Tankless Heater Installation and Maintenance Requirements

When professionally installed and maintained, a tankless water heater will last a long time, like most other equipment in your home. The level of maintenance required is determined in part by the environment, fuel kinds, local construction codes, and other factors. Finally, to ensure that your tankless water heater lasts for a long time, we recommend having it installed by a licensed HVAC technician.

Reliable Water Heater Repair and Installation Services

Is your tankless water heater broken or not operating at all? Don’t stress yourself; call us at AZ Water, Drain & Sewer, and our team of expert certified technicians will quickly and safely resolve the problem. At AZ Water, Drain & Sewer, we understand that washing dishes, showering, and rinsing your hands require the efficient flow of warm water daily.

We have offered quality and reliable water heater installation and repair services throughout Gilbert, AZ since 2016. Our licensed professionals offer top-notch plumbing services.

Give us a call if you need assistance with your heater, and we will send our expert technician out to you today!

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