The winter months are here, and they can take a toll on your home. Not only that, your energy costs will undoubtedly go up as you try to keep your house warm against the frigid air trying to make its way inside. One way to lower energy costs and ensure instant hot showers all winter long is a tankless water heater.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater is what it sounds like – unlike a traditional hot water heater, it doesn’t hold hot water inside of it and instead, heats the water on demand using gas or electricity. This means even if you’re the last person in the shower rotation, you’ll have plenty of hot water to utilize.
Which Water Heaters Cost More?
Now let’s talk about cost. Hot water heaters that use tanks range anywhere from $300 to $2,000, depending on the tank size you choose. They also require a professional plumber for installation, which can run you anywhere from $800 to $1,700. Tankless water heaters are more expensive – they’re typically anywhere from $300 to $2,500 depending on the system you choose, and also require professional installation ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
Related: Is It Time To Flush Your Tankless Water Heater?
What Are the Perks of Tankless Water Heaters?
However, while the up front cost of a tankless water heater is more, it’s well worth the investment when you explore the perks that come along with it. Here are the benefits of installing a tankless water heater in your home:
- The supply of hot water is limitless. Instead of storing a tank of hot water all the time (that will eventually run out and need to be refilled), tankless systems heat water on demand so you’ll have fast access to it 24/7. Plus, you can take hot showers, run the dishwasher, and do laundry all at once without worrying about the hot water running out.
- They work well in cold climates… which is why it’s a great idea to install one before winter arrives. It takes more energy to heat water when it’s cold outside, and some tank water heaters have trouble keeping up with high demand for hot water in the winter months. A tankless water system does NOT heat water when you’re not using hot water.
- You’ll cut energy costs. As mentioned above, tankless water heaters heat up water on demand instead of storing it in a tank. They don’t need to keep water hot when you’re not using it (which can utilize a ton of energy when it’s frigid outside), so your energy costs will definitely drop in the winter.
- They’re smaller. Tank water heaters take up a good amount of space, especially if you opt for a large tank. Tankless water heaters are much more compact because they don’t need a place to store hot water. They can be mounted on the wall to ensure you keep your garage or basement space freed up.
- They last longer. You’ll typically have to replace a tank water heater every 10-15 years (if you’re lucky). Tankless systems usually last 20 years or longer. Further, they’re made of parts that won’t rust, which helps them last longer and offer more durability.
However, keep in mind that even though they’re tankless, these water heaters can still freeze in the winter if you’re not attentive. Make sure that your water heater is prepped and ready for winter weather before it arrives to prevent damage.
Get a Tankless Water Heater Installed Today
Think you’re ready to up your hot water game with a tankless system? Contact Superior HVAC and Plumbing today to get the ball rolling.