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Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

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William Koonce
Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

The tankless water heater is a relatively new type of water heater that has been growing in popularity over the last several years. It works on-demand, meaning it only heats water when you need it, as opposed to traditional water heaters which heat gallons of water and keep them in a tank. So, is a tankless water heater right for you? The truth is that it comes down to personal preference, your lifestyle, and how much energy you’re willing to invest. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at tankless water heaters and how they can be beneficial for homeowners.


Pros of a Tankless Water Heater



The most beneficial aspect of a tankless water heater is that it only uses energy to heat the water you need right away. As opposed to a traditional water heater, which requires energy for both keeping the water warm in the storage tank and for heating additional water when necessary, a tankless water heater is more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Tankless water heaters can also provide a constant hot water supply; since the water isn’t stored you won’t have the worry of running out of hot water. This makes life much easier when it comes to taking long showers or filling up a large bathtub.


Cons of a Tankless Water Heater



One of the primary downsides of a tankless water heater is the cost. Initial purchasing costs for a tankless water heater are significantly higher than for a traditional one, and installation of a tankless unit is also more expensive and involved. This is especially true if you’re going from an electric water heater to a gas tankless one. Additionally, tankless water heaters generally require more maintenance than traditional water heaters. This can detract from the cost-saving benefits you may have anticipated.


Best Use Cases for a Tankless Water Heater



For most homeowners, a tankless water heater is a beneficial choice if you are looking to save on energy costs in the long run. Tankless water heaters are ideal for households that use larger amounts of hot water, or multiple bathrooms. They are also beneficial if you take longer showers or fill up large appliances like a jacuzzi or swimming pool. Tankless water heaters are also great for people who value having the convenience of an unlimited source of hot water.


Factors to Consider Before Purchasing



Before investing in a tankless water heater, you’ll want to consider a few factors. Firstly, do your research on the unit and installation fees. As mentioned, purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is going to be more expensive than traditional units, so it’s important to do your due diligence and weigh the costs against the benefits. Secondly, determine your hot water usage and demand. If your family uses a large amount of hot water, a tankless water heater can be a great option for you. However, if your hot water usage is lower then you may want to reconsider the upfront costs of a tankless water heater.


Conclusion



In conclusion, tankless water heaters have their own unique set of pros and cons and cannot be said to be an ideal choice for every homeowner. Despite the upfront costs, tankless water heaters can be a great long-term investment, providing numerous energy savings and an unlimited source of comfortable hot water. If you are looking for a water heater that is both energy efficient and has the convenience of unlimited hot water, then a tankless water heater may be the right choice for you.

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William Koonce
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