The comfort and convenience of a seemingly endless supply of hot water are for many people with conventional systems a sought-after dream. However, arguably tankless water heaters or “demand type” water heaters have been available in our lives for a significant number of decades. Various reports indicate that this water heating process, for users 186 liters or less, is capable of producing 24% to 34% greater energy efficiency than typical water tank heaters. This factor is just one reason that more consumers are installing tankless water heaters in their homes!
How the tankless system works
Simply put, a tankless heater provides hot water flow compared to traditional systems that store and heat water when needed. It is accomplished with a gas or electric source that heats the water before it flows into the hot water service. Compared to a tankless hot water system, the tankless application does not require the use of a pilot light as the water is heated during the day. Also, while conventional tank heating will run out of hot water after about 151 liters to 190 liters.
This positively adds to consumers with a tankless system who do not need to wait for a storage tank to refill and reheat to receive more hot water. Another benefit is that most common heater thermostats have a 120 degree setting, but for the tankless option the temperature can be lowered with consequent cost savings.
One aspect associated with tankless water heating is that users should be aware that while the supply of hot water can be seen as endless, it is not instantaneous! Similar to the usual tank water heating system, the tankless application also requires a period of time for the water heating process to reach the tap. However, once the water is heated, there is an endless supply of hot water. This installation makes the tankless installation ideal for large families and high demand hot water applications such as laundry, dishwashing and laundry.
Tankless types
Several tankless models are available for heating water and include those defined as condensing and non-condensing. Condensing water heaters are generally considered to be more efficient, plus they save space by approximately 60 percent compared to a typical tank water heater. However, vendors strongly recommend that consumers consider the size and fuel type of a proposed tankless hot water system.
In the case of gas installations, it must be recognized that it is important to know the size of the gas line available prior to any installation. Some tankless water heaters work efficiently on a 1.25 cm gas line, which is more affordable than those that require a 3.75 cm gas line.
Some benefits of tankless hot water
Looking first at economic influences; Although the tankless system is more expensive compared to a standard water heating system, most builders consider it in the upgrade category. Additionally, the resulting cost savings that overall contributed to energy efficiency can be a significant investment driver for consumers.
Consideration should be given to the fact that a tankless water heater offers a reduction in energy and operating costs that could significantly offset the higher purchase price. According to the US Department of Energy, the life expectancy of a tankless system exceeds 20 years. This just makes a few investment comparisons and potential sale value added to a property and especially the fact of an endless supply of hot water that is efficient, effective and convenient!
If you are in the process of building a new home, you have the opportunity to choose the hot water application that best meets your particular needs. So it might be worth considering how tankless water heating can give you the best efficiency and cost effectiveness. In this regard, your builder will be able to advise you on whether they offer a standard tankless water heater or an upgrade option. If this is possible, determine the type, the warranty period and exactly what is covered.
Since this decision can affect your lifestyle, determine the effect a tankless water heater will have on your overall water and energy efficiency.