Posted on: November 28, 2016
By: Alan O'Neill
Posted in: Plumbing
Tankless water heaters are small but efficient appliances that have made providing your home with the hot water you need for daily tasks easier, more reliable, and more cost-effective than ever before. There are several distinct benefits associated with tankless water heater installation, allowing you to enjoy a more energy- and water-efficient lifestyle while also reducing your monthly utility bills.
Tankless water heaters have been gaining popularity in American homes due to their efficiency, their size, and their convenience.
Whether you are building a new home or retrofiiting an older one (like me), take time to evaluate the hot water system. After all, estimates say that as much as 30% of a home’s energy budget is consumed by heating water.
My new “old house” came complete with an old and rusted gas-fueled tank-style water heater in the attic that was dying… well, dead. The question was not “should it be replaced?” but rather, “should it be replaced with a similar model or a new tankless system?”
A traditional water heater continuously heats water in the tank, regardless of whether it is being used. By comparison, the newer tankless designs heat water only when there is demand for it. Less stored water to heat means less cost—and let’s not forget, a more compact, wall-mounted design.
I did some research on water heating in general and tankless hot water heaters specifically, and here is what I learned:
Size Matters: Tankless hot water heaters are available in room or whole-house sizes. Calculate how many appliances or fixtures need hot water in order to determine the best size unit for your home. For me, a whole-house system was needed.
Fuel Type: Hot water heaters are available in either electric or gas (natural and propane) models. If you are considering electric, check for voltage and amperage requirements. The gas version will need some electric to operate, but venting will be the bigger issue.
Location: If you live further north, your ground water will be colder than if you reside in the southern or western part of the country. The temperature of the water will affect the speed and flow.
Know the Flow: If you think you will need to run the dishwasher while someone else is showering, assume a larger gallons-per-minute (GPM) rate will be on order to meet your overall water needs. Take into account water usage, too: A bathroom needs less water than a kitchen, a dishwasher less than a shower, and so on. Read full article..
Installing a new hot water heater isn’t as simple as other home updates. Hiring a professional to install your new hot water heater means it will be installed properly and safely. This saves you time, and in the long run, could save you money. Call (713) 812-7070 us for your home service and repair needs.
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