Tankless Water Heaters and Their Benefits

Why Install Tankless Water Heaters?

New technology always takes a while to catch on, but this is especially true when the current technology lasts ten years or more. Nowhere is this more true than with water heaters. Conventional hot water tanks have been in use for over a century, and due to their tenure, most homeowners are reluctant to try newer options. 

To make matters worse, the average hot water tank lasts for about ten years, after which it fails, prompting the homeowner to make a snap judgment to get a new water tank. The choice is usually made in a matter of minutes simply because most people don’t want to take the time to explore other options when faced with a cold shower. 

The truth is better options are now available for heating water. Tankless water heaters represent a new approach to heating water for the home. Instead of heating water and storing it in a tank, a tankless water heater heats water on demand, allowing it to sit idle for long periods. Here is a quick guide discussing the implications of the benefits of tankless water heater installation. 

Better Energy Efficiency 

save money Hot water tanks waste a lot of energy. Most homes only need water at certain times of the day, and for about 23 hours of the day, the water tank heats water so that it is ready. Wouldn’t a better approach be to heat water only when necessary? 

Tankless water heaters take a new approach to providing hot water. Instead of heating and storing incoming water, they heat it as needed. When faucets or fixtures are turned on, they sense the flow in the pipe and use powerful heating elements of burners to heat the incoming water immediately. Since they can sit idle throughout the day, they become much more efficient than conventional water tanks, saving homeowners lots of money on monthly bills. 

Endless Water Hot Water Supply

hot water Conventional water tanks are sized by how many gallons the tank can hold. Tankless water heaters are sized based on how many fixtures need hot water at once. There are two implications hidden in this fact. First, as long as the flow is sensed, the tankless water heater will continue to provide hot water. This means endless hot water for families, so no one ever gets stuck taking a cold shower at the end of the day. Secondly, even a tankless water heater that handles multiple fixtures takes up much less space than a water tank. Switching to tankless water heaters can save valuable storage space by forgoing the bulky storage tank. 

Improved Life Expectancy 

Tankless water heaters spend so much time sitting idle that they add years to a unit’s life. Water tanks are the first point of failure in most water heaters because of their constant expansion and contraction as they heat and store water. By eliminating the tank, tankless water heaters remove the major cause of sudden breakdowns. Coupling this with being able to operate only when necessary, most tankless water heaters last twice as long as water tanks, with up to 20 years.

About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air

Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air helps keep life affordable for their customers. They can help every homeowner switch to money-saving tankless water heaters with upfront pricing. Call today for tankless water heater installation in Fairhope, AL. 

Everyone Should Add a New Water Heater to Their Holiday Wishlist

Why Getting a New Water Heater Can Save Power (and Money) 

Water heaters do more than heat water; they make the home a warm, cozy paradise during the winter months. A water heater that doesn't get the water hot enough (or can't maintain a consistent temperature) needs replacing. Plain and simple. 

Water heaters, like other home appliances, come with certain lifespans. On average, a homeowner can have a water heater for six to 13 years without any problems. Beyond that range, they should consider the benefits of water heater replacement. 

Signs of Water Heater Malfunction 

As mentioned, if a water heater can't maintain a certain temperature or gets cold too quickly, it needs professional attention. There are other warning signs, however, including: 

  • Leaks: Water heaters rely on electricity or gas to work. So, before a homeowner identifies the source of the leak, they should cut power to the appliance. From there, they should inspect pipes, inlets, and connectors for any leaks. They can either patch the leak themselves or consult an experienced water heater company. 
  • Poor water pressure: This could indicate sediment build-up in the water tank. In this situation, homeowners should shut off the water heater's power and drain their tanks. It's worth noting that sediment build-up usually doesn't affect tankless water heaters. 
  • Abnormal sounds coming from the water heater: Any hissing, clanking, or banging could indicate a faulty heating element. It could also mean that sediment is melting inside the water tank. Both require prompt attention. 

To Repair or Replace? That Is the Question water heater

Whether to repair or replace a faulty water heater depends on a lot of factors, including: 
  • The problem: If the cost of fixing a water heater costs more than it's worth, homeowners should consider replacing it. Water heater installation could mean the difference between months of repairs or years of consistent water temperature. 
  • Budget: A homeowner might not have the funds to buy a new water heater. In that case, they may consider fixing problems as they go, rather than spending a lot of money all at once. 
  • Safety: If a water heater is severely damaged and poses a threat to a home's residents, it needs replacing. These hazards might include exposed wiring, gas leaks, and exposed heat elements. Each of these problems can result in fires or other life-threatening issues. 

The Three Benefits of Installing a New Water Heater water heater

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, three benefits of having a high-functioning water heater (or getting a new one) include: 

  • Energy efficiency: A faulty water heater wastes energy. Homeowners might have to wait long periods for the water heater or shower more often. These can add hundreds to homeowners' heating and electricity bills. 
  • Increased recovery efficiency: This refers to how well the heating element works. The better it works, the more satisfactory the water temperature. 
  • Size: Homeowners can save space by opting for smaller water heaters. In turn, they increase their home's usable square footage and may even see lower energy costs. 

About Affordable Plumbing, Heating, & Air 

Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air provides quality service to Fairhope, AL. These professionals offer emergency services, diagnostic procedures, and same-day estimates. Interested parties can call them today to explore their options.