If your water heater is almost at the end of its serviceable life, you’re probably already thinking about your replacement options. The good news is that there are many options available! The bad news, however, is that it can be challenging to know what kind of replacement water heater is best for you.
Although traditional tank water heaters have many benefits, you might have recently become interested in tankless units. After all, it’s no secret that tankless water heaters have grown in popularity among homeowners.
But is a tankless water heater worth it? Is one of these units right for you? The answers to these questions will depend on your specific needs.
Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater: What’s the Difference?
Before we discuss whether or not switching to a tankless water heater is worth it, you should know what to expect from these systems. How do tankless units differ from conventional water heaters? Use this guide to see how these two systems stack up against one another:
Is It Worth Switching to a Tankless Water Heater?
Why are tankless water heaters worth it for so many homeowners? For starters, these systems have a sleek, compact design that saves space — which can be excellent if you live in a small or crowded home. These systems also only heat hot water when you need it, so you don’t have to worry about a tank running empty — especially when you need it most.
Although tankless water heaters have many benefits, it’s important to recognize that not every home has the same exact needs. What works for your next-door neighbor might not work for you, and vice-versa. So, is a tankless water heater worth it? We’ll answer this question in more detail below.
Performance
As we briefly mentioned above, tankless units are often raved about for their ability to heat water on demand. When you switch on your shower or sink faucet, the cold water will travel to the unit, passing through a heating element. Once the water has been heated, it will immediately be sent to the faucet for you to enjoy.
With a tankless system, you can heat water precisely when you need it — whenever you need it. However, it’s important to recognize that not every tankless water heater is created equal. You’ll want to install a unit that can handle your household’s hot water needs. In fact, if you have a large household that uses a lot of hot water daily, you might want to consider installing two tankless units instead of one.
Energy Efficiency
Now, you might be wondering: is a tankless water heater worth it in terms of energy efficiency? When it comes down to it, the answer to this question is an absolute yes. Tankless units are known for being much more efficient than their conventional counterparts. However, you should also know that energy efficiency can vary according to your fuel type.
Are you feeling stuck choosing between a gas or electric tankless water heater? You might be surprised to learn that electric models tend to be more energy efficient than gas units. However, electricity tends to cost more than gas, so electric units can cost more to operate in the long run. Plus, an electric unit usually requires an electrician to increase wire size and breaker to handle the voltage necessary to run the equipment. As you can see, there are many factors to consider before choosing a fuel source for your next water heater.
There are various benefits to the high energy efficiency of tankless water heaters. For example, these units can lower energy costs and help you avoid unwanted wear and tear. Since energy-efficient units tend to last longer, you can end up saving money by avoiding a tankless water heater repair in Jackson, MS. Many homeowners will say that these perks are why switching to a tankless water heater is worth it.
Installation Costs
If you need a water heater installation, you’re probably already thinking about your wallet. So, how much does a tankless water heater cost? All-in-all, you can expect these units to have higher installation costs than tank water heaters.
Is it worth switching to a tankless water heater despite these higher costs? Some homeowners will say yes. Why? Although tankless units tend to have higher initial costs, they can provide excellent energy savings, which can help you save money in the long term.
It’s also worth noting that tankless units are known to have a fairly long life expectancy. When you take care of your tankless water heater with regular maintenance, the unit can potentially last 20 years or longer. Lower energy costs and a longer lifespan can help you reap many savings. These benefits can offset the higher installation costs.
Install a New Water Heater With Environment Masters!
There are many advantages to tankless water heaters. For example, these units don’t have bulky storage tanks and provide excellent energy savings.
“So, is a tankless water heater worth it?” If you ask your friends and neighbors this question, you’re likely to receive a wide range of answers. As such, it can be difficult to know what the best solution is for you and your household. Fortunately, this is where Environment Masters can help.
Our plumbing experts can help you find the best solution for your needs! If you’re ready to install a tankless water heater, we can walk you through your options and discuss various pros and cons to ensure you’re receiving the best solution possible.
We’re proud to specialize in tankless water heater repairs and installations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Jackson, MS, or the surrounding area!
