Tankless Water Heater Guide

A warm shower is how many of us kickstart our daily routines. Instead of bathing in comfort, imagine feeling an icy chill like you’re taking a Polar Bear Plunge.

Running out of hot water is a nightmare and a problem that signals something is wrong with your water heater. If this continues, it might be time to explore investing in a tankless water heater.

In today’s energy-conscious world, understanding water heaters is crucial. These units have many advantages, but they’re not for everyone.

By the end of this article, you’ll have more insight into tankless water heaters so you can make an informed choice for your home.

What is a Tankless Water Heater and How Does It Work?

A tankless water heater—as the name suggests—doesn’t store hot water in a tank. Instead, it heats water directly as it flows through the unit. This means it uses energy only when you turn on the tap, making it more energy efficient.

When activated, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, heated by either a gas burner or an electric element. As a result, you get continuous hot water without the need for a storage tank.

Why Choose Tankless Over Traditional Tank Water Heaters?

Tankless water heaters have gained traction for several reasons:

• Energy Efficiency: They typically use around 30% less energy than conventional water heaters. This means savings on utility bills.
• Continuous Supply: With a tankless water heater, you get an uninterrupted hot water supply.  In homes with many occupants, this is a boon. Traditional water heaters are limited by the tank’s capacity.
• Compactness: They occupy less space and can even be installed on walls, freeing up floor space.

However, it’s worth noting that tankless water heaters won’t provide hot water during power outages, similar to electric conventional water heaters. Electric tankless models might also require additional breakers due to their power draw.

If you have a traditional water heater and aren’t sure whether it needs to be replaced or if a move to a tankless unit is appropriate for you, we encourage you to reach out to plumbing experts like our team at A1 Sewer & Drain for assistance.

How Can I Maximize the Efficiency of My Tankless Water Heater?

For those seeking optimized performance from their tankless systems, consider the following:

• Recirculating Pumps and Crossbars: These tools, instead of a dedicated line, can be instrumental. A dedicated water line allows water to loop back to the water heater, promising continuous hot water.
• Regular Maintenance: While the tankless units we install at A1 Sewer & Drain don’t require flushing for warranty preservation, doing so will extend their lifespan. Many tankless water heaters can last at least 20 years. For conventional water heaters, yearly flushing is advisable.  However, starting late may harm the unit if you’ve skipped this routine.

Contact A1 Sewer & Drain for Reliable Water Heater Solutions Today!

Water plays a big part in our everyday lives—from cooking and drinking to cleaning and bathing. Having enough of it at the right temperature from a trusted water heater is equally important. 

In the evolving landscape of water heaters, A1 Sewer & Drain is your trusted partner. Whether you’re considering shifting to a tankless unit or need guidance on your current system, our expertise ensures your home’s hot water needs are met efficiently. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.