Sometimes it seems like we live in a world of people who always think newer is better. Newer phones, newer cars and newer appliances are advertised constantly! But how do you make sure you’re making the right investment into a product which is worth the hype? Ask Gotelli. We’ll give you the truth.
Tankless water heaters are a perfect example of ‘newer is better’. Traditional water heaters are your “old reliable” option. They work, but there’s another option out there. Newer tankless water heaters have several functions that outpace traditional systems every single time.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
One of the biggest differences between the two water heating systems is how they heat and deliver water.
A system with a tank basically functions like a pot on a stove. Gallons and gallons of water are held inside a tank and heated constantly – by either gas or electric power. When you turn on the hot water tap, hot water begins to empty from the tank. In instances when large amounts of water are used – such as baths and showers – the tank only holds so many gallons for use. Once this water is used up, especially in a short amount of time, it could take anywhere from one to three hours for the tank to be completely full of hot water again.
I’m sure you know the time it takes to heat a pot of water on the stove. Now multiply that by 10! It takes a lot of energy to heat that much water!
Tankless systems, as suggested by their name, have no tank. So, where do they keep the water? They don’t! These systems do not maintain a collection of hot water. Tankless systems have a heating source – gas or electric – much like their tanked counterparts, but the energy from these sources heats a coiled pipe. The pipe is made of copper, a metal that is highly conductive to heat.
When you turn on the hot water tap, water begins to flow down the pipe. A sensor can tell when water is flowing and signals the heating to begin. As the water flows through the coiled copper pipe, it is heated up and delivered to your sink or shower. When your tap is shut off, so is the heating element inside the water heater.
What Are The Benefits Of A Tankless System?
Knowing how the two systems work allows for a better understanding of which is best for your home.
Efficiency
Because the tankless system heats water as it is needed, it does not need to be using energy all day like the tanked system. The efficiency of heating on demand surpasses the constant consumption of energy the traditional unit demands. There is no question that a tankless water heater will save you energy and perform more efficiently.
Amount of Water
While a tanked system is limited to how much water it can hold ready for you at all times, tankless systems can provide a virtually endless supply of hot water. In fact, these systems can typically heat 2-5 gallons of water per minute – more than enough to finish your shower with steamy water. Whenever you need hot water, it is at your fingertips, regardless of how many people in your home are using water. Not only is this useful for everyday activities, large families will never run out of hot water over the holidays (or during regular days) again.
Cost
Initially, tankless systems will cost more than their traditional counterparts. However, the enormous savings in energy usage will be reflected in your energy bill. You will not believe how much money a more efficient system can save you. Also, the risk of operational costs is much lower. With no tank to maintain or breakdown, you can be reasonably confident that repair costs will shrink rapidly.
Durability
As if the other benefits weren’t enough, tankless hot water heaters have double the lifespan of traditional units. That’s 20 years if they’re well maintained! Simply put, the newer materials and functionality are made to be of higher quality.
Are You Ready To Make The Switch?
If a tankless water heater installation sounds like the best option for you, don’t hesitate to contact Gotelli Plumbing! We have a dedicated and experienced team ready to assist you in your home investment. We promise San Rafael, tankless water heaters have our stamp of approval. Give us a call today!
