What is a Tankless Water Heater?
Having hot water available at the turn of a handle is one of the great modern comforts. Because hot water is so readily available, it has also become instrumental in public health by making hygiene practices so easy. How much less would people shower and wash their hands if they had to do it in cold water all the time?!
In most homes, hot water is provided by a water tank. Water tanks use burners or heating elements to heat a batch of water and keep it on standby waiting for use. As water is used, cold water rushes into the heated tank and eventually allows the tank to only provide cold water. Luckily, engineers have developed better solutions for hot water: tankless water heaters. Here are the reasons to switch to a tankless water heater.
When is the Best Time to Replace an Old Water Heater
The best time to install a tankless water heater is when the current water heater is on its last legs. Let's face it, water heaters are expensive, and there is no good reason to replace one before the current unit fails. But how can homeowners know when the time is right? Some of the signs that the current water heater is failing are:
- The unit is more than 7 years old or has outlived its warranty
- Repairs are becoming more common on the current water heater
- Leaks or unusual noises have developed
- Less hot water seems to be available
- Energy bills are slowly climbing
When any of these occur, it is a good time to think about replacing the water heater. Why not consider a tankless water heater?
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Tankless water heaters are completely different from their conventional counterparts. They take up far less space because they don't need a giant tank to hold water. Instead, tankless water heaters are installed in line with the current water piping. They use sensitive slow sensors to determine when hot water is called for from faucets or appliances. Once they sense flow they turn on powerful burners that heat water as it flows through piping. When flow is no longer sensed in the pipes, the burners turn off and wait until the next call.
Reasons to Make the Switch
Because tankless water heaters differ from conventional water tanks, they offer several profound benefits. Among these benefits are the following:
- Endless Hot Water: The unit will continue heating water for as long as it is demanded. This means no more being left in a cold shower.
- Lower Water Heating Bills: Water heating bills comprise a decent portion of monthly bills. Since tankless water heaters don't waste energy keeping water warm on standby, they save a lot of money.
- Longevity: Tankless water heaters generally last longer because they don't have to work constantly. While they generally cost more upfront, tankless water heaters' longevity, reliability, and efficiency make them the obvious choice for thrifty homeowners.
About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air
Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air can handle any water heater need. Their professionals are ready with upfront pricing from water heater maintenance to tankless water heater installation. Call today for fast turnarounds in Fairhope, AL.
