Energy-Efficient Tankless Water Heaters Are Here To Stay | San Antonio, TX
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The demand for hot water in a modern home is constant and endless. Your shower, dishwasher, and washing machine all consume water from a heater. If you have a traditional water heater, you may find it struggling to meet your growing needs.
Upgrading to tankless water heaters is a wise move as these generate hot water on demand for the duration you need. Unlike traditional heaters, the tankless variety does not have a storage tank where water is first heated and then distributed. The absence of a tank significantly lessens the chances of a catastrophic leak.
In San Antonio, TX, you can source tankless water heaters in electric and natural gas models. These energy-efficient heaters are available in two principle designs, which are whole-house or point-of-use versions. Considering the tankless variety is compact, it can easily be accommodated within your home.
Factors to Consider
While figuring out the size, type, and quantity of tankless water heaters your home needs, consider these vital factors:
- The volume of water your unit is expected to heat
- The temperature of the water entering your heater
- Degree of hot water you desire from your unit
- Electric units have a shorter life span than gas-burning tankless water heaters
Location for Installation
While choosing a place to install tankless water heaters, keep in mind the following:
- If possible, identify a spot that requires minimal alteration to your plumbing
- Must be conveniently located to your water features
- Ensure the fastest supply of hot water with the least wastage
- Allows you to reap the maximum benefits from this feature
It is advisable to hire professionals to do the installation for you as they are thorough and experienced. Whether you install a gas or electric tankless heater, depending on an amateur technician, may prove costly in the long-run.
Experts have an eye for detail and can spot even the smallest leak. To double-check the heater has been installed accurately, they run specific tests. These tests help establish that the heating element and pressure valves are functioning well.
Working of the Heater
By turning on the hot water tap, you activate the unit. When cold water enters the heater, the flow-activated switch turns on the heat exchanger responsible for heating the water.
In this case, the heating element is the exchanger. The latter can either be a natural gas-fuelled burner or electric-resistance heating coils.
Reasons That Work In Favor of Tankless Water Heaters
Deciding to install a tankless heater guarantees profitable returns. They are compact than standard water heaters; hence, can be mounted on a wall, and some are even designed for outdoor installation.
In terms of efficiency and savings, heaters with tanks fall short when compared to their tankless counterparts. Undoubtedly, the latter is a worthwhile investment for your home and family. Here’s why:
Extremely Energy-Efficient
Investing in a tankless heater is an energy-efficient way to benefit from running hot water. Traditional heaters waste energy by continuously heating water stored in their tank while tankless heaters only operate when needed.
These water heaters reduce your energy consumption by almost 35% and subsequently lower your corresponding monthly energy bills. They only heat water as per your specific requirement and need just enough power to do the needful, thereby conserving natural resources.
Ensure Endless Hot Water Supply
Compared to their conventional counterparts, tankless heaters can supply hot water almost endlessly, at a time of your choosing. On average, you can safely expect to receive a volume of hot water ranging between two to five gallons per minute.
You do not have to wait for the water to heat, nor does the heater run out of hot water. Even if you run multiple fixtures that consume hot water simultaneously, you will not be left stranded. The water supply is also fresh as stale water stored in a rusty or dirty tank is not heated.
More Durable
San Antonio, TX residents, are swearing by these water heaters since they last longer than the ones with tanks. Once professionally installed, you do not have to stress over replacing a tankless heater in a hurry.
Designed To Be Repaired
Should your tankless water heater need repairs, corresponding parts are easily available. You do not need to replace your entire unit when it is tankless as a faulty section; if not repairable, is replaceable. In this manner, the functional life of tankless water heaters can be extended.
Saves You from Leakage Woes
Heaters with tanks are often a cause for worry, especially as they age. Their tanks can rupture or develop cracks due to which leakages are inevitable. With tankless heaters, you do not have to fear flooding or other water-related damage.
Comparative Study between Gas and Electric Tankless Water Heaters
A tankless water heater that runs on electricity, though more efficient than the gas-fuelled ones, utilizes more power. If you invest in a whole-house tankless electric water heater, your electricity consumption can go upwards of 25,000 watts. Electric models are comparatively easy on your pocket, both in terms of purchase and installation.
Although generally more expensive, the gas variety outlives the electric tankless water heater models and has a higher flow rate. Gas units are fuelled by either propane or natural gas. They are capable of high heat output and quick response time.
Warranty Aspect
Reputed manufacturers of tankless water heaters have faith in their product and back it by offering a reasonable warranty timeframe. They produce dependable and quality appliances, which though a significant investment, come with warranty coverage. Even the heat exchanger and parts of the tankless heater are covered under warranty, though the period may differ.
Maintenance Frequency
Your tankless water heater manual will specify the frequency of maintenance. The quality of water you receive also impacts the maintenance schedule. Annual, if not more frequent inspections of your unit by a professional, is a must.
Confidently place your trust in bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio whether you need to install, repair, or maintain your tankless water heater.
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