Hot water is crucial for many everyday tasks — from taking showers and washing dishes to running your washing machine. A reliable and efficient hot water system is, therefore, essential for any home. Historically, traditional water heaters with storage tanks were the most common solution. However, tankless water heaters are a modern alternative offering numerous advantages, including energy efficiency, longevity, and space savings.
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous heaters, work by directly heating water as it flows through the device rather than storing hot water like a traditional heater.
When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water is piped through the unit, and a gas burner or electric element heats the water instantaneously, ensuring a constant supply of hot water. This fundamental difference to traditional, tank-based heaters offers a range of benefits that can improve both the efficiency of your home and the comfort of your lifestyle.
In this blog, we will explore the unique benefits that tankless water heaters bring to your home. We will then provide an expert guide to navigate the myriad of options on the market and help you select the perfect tankless water heater that fits your unique needs and budget.
Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the main benefits of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Traditional water heaters that rely on storage tanks are constantly heating and reheating the water, leading to significant energy waste.
In contrast, tankless models only heat the water when needed, resulting in considerable energy savings and reduced utility bills. Depending on your usage, a tankless water heater can save you up to 30-50% on your energy bill compared to a conventional water heater.
2. Continuous Hot Water Supply
A tankless water heater ensures a constant hot water supply, so you’ll never have to worry about running out during peak usage times. Traditional systems, with their limited storage capacity, can leave you waiting for the water to reheat during periods of high demand. Tankless heaters provide hot water on-demand, making them an ideal choice for families with multiple users or those who desire luxuriously long showers.
3. Space Savings
Tankless systems are significantly smaller than their storage-tank counterparts, making them ideal for homes with limited space. These compact units can be wall-mounted and installed in a variety of locations within your home, including closets, cabinets, and even outside walls. This space-saving feature helps you make the most of your home’s square footage.
4. Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, with many models lasting 20 years or more, compared to an average lifespan of 10-15 years for conventional units. This increased longevity helps offset the higher initial cost of a tankless heater, ensuring you get more value from your investment over time.
Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater
1. Determine Your Hot Water Demand
To select the right tankless water heater, it’s essential to determine your home’s hot water needs. Calculate the total flow rate — measured in gallons per minute, or GPM — by adding up the flow rates of all the fixtures you expect to use simultaneously. Choose a tankless water heater with a maximum flow rate that meets or exceeds your calculated demand.
2. Evaluate Fuel Types
Tankless water heaters can be powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. Gas-powered models typically have a higher flow rate and are more efficient, but they may require additional venting or gas line installation. Electric models are generally easier to install but may require upgrading your home’s electrical service depending on the unit’s demand. Evaluate the fuel types available in your area and the installation requirements when choosing a tankless water heater.
3. Account for Local Climate Conditions
In colder climates, the temperature of the incoming groundwater may be lower, which can affect a tankless water heater’s performance and efficiency. Be sure to choose a model with a sufficient temperature rise capability, ensuring it can efficiently heat the water to your desired temperature even during the coldest months.
Invest in Tankless Water Heaters for Ultimate Comfort
Tankless water heaters provide an array of advantages over traditional models, making them an excellent choice for energy-conscious homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient hot water system. Understanding the benefits and carefully evaluating the options available, such as hot water demand, fuel types, energy efficiency ratings, and local climate conditions, will help you choose the perfect system tailored to your unique needs and budget.
At Furnace King, with over 43 years of industry experience, our team of heating and cooling professionals is committed to ensuring your home is comfortable and efficient. From energy-efficient residential furnaces and air conditioners to indoor air filtration systems, duct cleaning services, and indoor humidification, we’ve got you covered. Our dedication to customer satisfaction, quality products, and guaranteed services makes us the company to trust when upgrading your hot water system.
Contact us today to learn more about tankless water heater installation in Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area!