Water heaters have been in use for at least 100 years, and the basic technology that makes them work is essentially the same that runs today’s standard water heaters. However, the same technology requires constant heating of the water to make sure it’s ready to use. This may be convenient but it still wastes a lot of energy unnecessarily. Tankless water heaters have changed that factor, offering a better alternative that provides hot water only when required. This energy-saving feature is what makes these heaters an excellent choice for many homes, but is it the right choice for you?
How does a tankless water heater system work?
On-demand or tankless water heaters heat the water only when it’s being used, thereby avoiding the heat loss that occurs during storage in conventional type heaters. When hot water is needed, cold water flows through the pipe that connects to the heating unit, which increases the water temperature at a set level. The heating unit may be powered by electricity or gas.
Are they efficient?
Tankless water systems heat water instantly as it passes through the heating unit. On average, expect one system to increase the temperature of 5 gallons of water by about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They also do not take up a lot of space, making them ideal for small and midsized homes. Tankless systems come in a variety of sizes, and larger homes usually end up needing more than one in order to satisfy water-heating demands.
Although they can be used in virtually any home, tankless water heaters are best installed during the construction of a building because the pipes, water line and heating unit can be integrated more seamlessly into the structure. If you’re building a new house and need a water heating system, consider installing the tankless type. The cost difference is nearly negligible.
Need help deciding if tankless water heaters are right for your home? Get in touch with one of our expert technicians at Ernst Heating.& Cooling. We have been the premier heating and cooling specialists in the Metro-East area since 1951. Let us help you decide which system is best for your needs so you can save on energy and the cost of operation as well.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Hamel, Illinois and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about tankless water heaters and other HVAC topics, visit our blog.Â
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