Tankless hot water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous hot water heaters, have become increasingly popular in recent years. Unlike traditional hot water heaters that store and continuously heat water in a tank, tankless heaters only heat water when it is needed. This can lead to significant energy savings and a more constant supply of hot water.
How Tankless Hot Water Heaters Work
Tankless hot water heaters work by heating water directly as it flows through the unit. When hot water is needed, cold water enters the heater and is rapidly heated by a heat exchanger. This allows for a continuous supply of hot water, without the need for a storage tank.
Benefits of Tankless Hot Water Heaters
One of the main benefits of tankless hot water heaters is their energy efficiency. Because they only heat water as it is needed, they do not waste energy keeping a tank of water hot all day long. This can result in significant savings on energy bills over time.
Another benefit of tankless hot water heaters is their space-saving design. Traditional hot water heaters can be quite large and take up a lot of space in a home. Tankless heaters are typically much smaller and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up floor space.
Tankless hot water heaters also have a longer lifespan than traditional hot water heaters. Traditional heaters typically last around 10-15 years, while tankless heaters can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This means less frequent replacements and less waste.
Considerations for Choosing a Tankless Hot Water Heater
When choosing a tankless hot water heater, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it is important to determine the appropriate size for your household. Tankless heaters are typically sized by their flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The appropriate size will depend on the number of people in the household and the peak hot water usage.
It is also important to consider the type of fuel used to power the heater. Tankless hot water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. The availability and cost of each fuel source should be considered when making a decision.
Finally, it is important to choose a reputable brand and installer. Tankless hot water heaters can be a significant investment, and it is important to choose a high-quality product and ensure proper installation to ensure optimal performance and longevity. That is why we supply and install Navien products, we believe in their quality and we have Navien specific training to ensure the best possible service for our customers.
In conclusion, tankless hot water heaters can be a great option for those looking to save energy and space in their home. By understanding how they work and considering the appropriate size and fuel source, homeowners can choose a high-quality tankless hot water heater that will provide consistent hot water and long-term cost savings. If you are upgrading from a traditional hot water tank to a Navien tankless water heater there may be FORTIS BC rebates available to you. Find out at FORTIS BC.
Please give us a call for more information or a quote for a Navien tankless water heater.
If you have a tankless hot water heater or a boiler, of any brand, it is very important to have an annual maintenance done on it. This involves a visual inspection, a cleaning and “flush” of the unit and making sure that it is running and heating correctly when we leave. This is very important for the function and life of your tankless water heater.
April 11th, 2023