Choosing a tankless water heater is smart choice if you’re seeking an energy-efficient alternative to traditional tank models. Rather than storing hot water in a tank, a tankless model heats water on demand, providing a continuous supply of hot water. Tankless water heaters are available in a variety of sizes and fuel types, and choosing the right one for your household requires careful consideration of several key factors.
Choosing a tankless water heater
Flow Rate
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tankless water heater is the flow rate. Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM) and refers to the amount of hot water the heater can provide at any given time. To determine the flow rate you will need for your household, consider the number of people living in your home and their hot water usage habits.
For example, a family of four will typically require a tankless water heater with a flow rate of at least 7 gallons per minute. This will provide enough hot water to supply two showers running at the same time, as well as other hot water devices like a dishwasher or washing machine.
Size
Another important factor to consider is the size of your home and the number of hot water devices you will need to supply. This includes the number of bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and other hot water devices. Make sure to choose a tankless water heater that can handle your household’s hot water needs.
Tankless water heaters are available in various sizes, and the right size for your home will depend on your hot water usage patterns. For example, a larger home with multiple bathrooms and hot water devices will require a larger tankless water heater with a higher flow rate. On the other hand, a smaller home with only one or two people may be able to get by with a smaller tankless water heater.
Fuel Type
Tankless water heaters can be powered by gas, propane, or electricity. The fuel type you choose will depend on several factors, including the availability of fuel in your area, the cost of fuel, and the efficiency of the heater.
Gas and propane tankless water heaters are more powerful and efficient than electric models, but they require ventilation and may have higher installation costs. Gas and propane models also typically have a higher upfront cost than electric models. However, the lower cost of fuel and higher efficiency of gas and propane models can offset this initial cost over time.
Electric tankless water heaters are more affordable and easy to install, but they may not be as powerful as gas and propane models. Additionally, electric tankless water heaters can cause a spike in your electricity bill, especially if you use a lot of hot water.
Efficiency
Efficiency is another crucial consideration when choosing a tankless water heater. Look for a model with a high efficiency rating, as this will help you save money on your energy bills in the long run. Tankless water heaters with an Energy Star certification are typically the most efficient models available.
Some tankless water heaters also have energy-saving features like modulating burners or timers. Modulating burners adjust the heating output based on the demand for hot water, while timers can be programmed to turn the heater on and off during periods of low usage.
Brand Reputation
When choosing a tankless water heater, it’s important to choose a reputable brand with a good track record for quality and reliability. Check online reviews and customer feedback before making your purchase. This will help you avoid models with known issues and ensure you get a tankless water heater that will last for years to come.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Finally, you need to consider installation and maintenance costs. Tankless water heaters can be more expensive to install than traditional tank models, but they typically last longer and require less maintenance. Make sure to get a quote from a professional installer before making your purchase, and factor in any ongoing maintenance costs.
Choosing the right tankless water heater
In summary, choosing a tankless water heater requires careful consideration of several key factors. By taking into account flow rate, size, fuel type, efficiency, brand reputation, installation and maintenance costs, and online reviews, you can select a tankless water heater that will meet your hot water needs and save you money on energy bills in the long run.
If you’re looking for help choosing a tankless water heater, feel free to contact us anytime. As top rated local plumbers, servicing and maintaining water heaters is what we do. We’re happy to advise, and inform, to help you make the right choices. Think of us as your plumbing expert teammates. Call us anytime, even nights and weekends, at 626.448.6455
