Is it true that tankless water heaters are expensive and complicated to install?
Tankless water heaters are something I’d like to learn more about, according to B. Chiselbrook of Fort Worth, Texas. A tankless water heater, according to my plumber, will cost $2,000 more than a traditional water heater. He also claims that the venting system is difficult to maintain and that I would have to clean it once a year. Is there any significance to this? Please respond to this question.
Answers
Kevin Burrellon has contributed to this article. Thursday, April 19, 2007 – 4:00 p.m. On-demand water heaters have been available in Europe and Asia for approximately the last 50 years, and they are now making their way to the United States.
- In addition, these water heaters are extremely energy efficient since they only turn on when you turn on a faucet
- In contrast, with a normal unit, you have to wait until the hot water has drained before it can be heated again. When using a tankless water heater, on the other hand, you will always have hot water available as long as the device is operating. In my own practice, the gas tankless water heater is preferred above the electric tankless water heater. My opinion is that, in terms of energy efficiency, a gas heater is far more appropriate for this sort of demand.
To the contrary of what you may have heard, tankless water heaters do not require manual flushing on an annual basis. Self-flushing water heaters are available with on-demand water heaters: The unit flushes water through the heater core every time it is turned on or turned off. It is true that the upfront expenses of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater are two to three times greater than the expenditures of a traditional water heater. The good news is that, because to energy savings, the original investment may usually be recouped within 10 years.
- Contrary to popular belief, tankless water heaters do not require manual flushing on a yearly basis like traditional water heaters. It is self-flushing for on demand water heaters: The device flushes water through the heater core every time it is turned on or off. According to industry standards, conventional water heaters have purchase and installation prices that are two to three times greater than those of solar water heaters. However, the good news is that, via energy savings, the initial investment can usually be recouped within 10 years.
If there are any restrictions, you will need to check with your local building department. There is a limit to the number of bends that can be included into the flue as well as the total distance that it can travel horizontally or vertically. Rather of venting to the outside through the entire roof, it is possible to vent through sidewalls to the outside, assuming that you have the setbacks from window and door openings that may be needed in your county. During my installation of on-demand hot water heaters in the San Francisco Bay region, I have not experienced any issues with the local building authority.
I believe that with the introduction of hot water heaters, the ground has been broken, and people are becoming increasingly amenable to their use.
Additional practical information on installing a tankless water heater may be found in ” 9 Best Practices for Choosing and Installing a Tankless Water Heater “.
Why Are Tankless Water Heaters So Expensive To Install?
In order to determine whether or whether there are any restrictions, you will need to contact your local building department. In terms of how many bends you can place in the flue and how far it can go horizontally or vertically, there are limits. Rather of venting to the outside through the entire roof, it is possible to vent through sidewalls to the outside if you have the necessary setbacks from window and door openings in your county. When constructing on-demand hot water heaters in the San Francisco Bay region, I have not run across any issues with the building department.
Now that hot water heaters have shown to be reliable and cost effective, I believe the public will become more amenable to their use.
A more practical guide to tankless water heater installation may be found in ” 9 Best Practices for Choosing and Installing a Tankless Water Heater.”
- It is necessary to decommission the old system. It is necessary to install a new gas line (or access to a heat source). (An electrical outlet)
- It is possible that walls and/or ceilings may need to be opened in order to install new gas and/or water lines. If walls or ceilings are opened, the expense of restoring them with drywall and paint, as well as the possibility of molding repair, will be incurred.
As you can see, it is more complicated than simply replacing your old water heater, which explains the greater cost of installation. It is recommended that any work be completed by a professional plumber who has Tankless Certification. 770-505-8570 If you have any concerns regarding tankless hot water heaters, or if you would like our skilled installation service to install one for you, please contact Atlantis Plumbing now.
We Offer Tankless Water Heater Services in Metro Atlanta and Surrounding Areas
As you can see, it involves more than simply replacing your existing water heater, which explains why the installation costs are greater. Licensed plumbers with Tankless Certification should do all of the work. 770-505-8570 If you have any concerns regarding tankless hot water heaters, or if you would like our skilled installation service to install one for you, please contact Atlantis Plumbing right now.
Are Tankless Water Heaters Worth It? 10 Pros and Cons
Tankless water heaters are one of the more recent techniques available for making a home more energy efficient. Tankless heaters, as opposed to normal units, which continually heat and reheat water to ensure that it is always hot, create water that is heated quickly using high-powered gas burners or electric coils to heat the water. In order to achieve this immediate heating, more electricity is required; but, because the water does not have to be heated repeatedly, as in a traditional “tank” type, tankless systems consume less energy in total.
- Is there a catch to this?
- When the circumstances are favorable, a tankless water heater is the most cost-effective solution.
- Before we get into the advantages and disadvantages of tankless water heaters, if you’ve already decided that you’re going to get a new water heater (with or without a tank), have you considered how you’re going to pay for the purchase?
- By clicking on the button below, you will get accepted within 30 minutes (with no credit check)!
- Now, we’ll go over some of the advantages and disadvantages of tankless water heaters, so you can determine if a tankless water heater or a regular water heater is the better option for you.
Pro1: Instant Hot Water
Tankless water heaters may offer an almost instantaneous stream of hot water after flushing the cold water from the pipes out of the faucet with hot water from the faucet. Consequently, at their most fundamental level, these devices are capable of fulfilling their promise to provide warmth without the hassle of huge storage tanks in the process.
Con1: Inconsistent Temperatures
In the Consumer Reports poll noted above, one of the most common consumer concerns was that the water temperature was constantly fluctuating.
Most of the time, this problem arises as a consequence of the heater’s failure to deliver adequate hot water to several outlets at the same time. Tankless heaters, on the other hand, do not always turn on if the faucet is only slightly open (when shaving or rinsing a toothbrush, for example).
Pro2: Longer Lifespan
The fact that tankless units have a longer lifespan is a significant advantage. A normal, high-quality water heater will last around a decade, but tankless water heaters may operate for up to twice that amount of time. Choosing a tankless type that will last longer can prevent a homeowner from having to replace their tank every ten years or so.
Con2: Higher Initial Cost
Tankless units are intrinsically more costly because of their greater life expectancy. The average conventional model costs roughly $500, and the lowest tankless choices start at $1,000 for the most basic configuration. These specialty models are also more expensive, and they need more time to install, thus labor costs must be considered into the entire cost of the product or service.
Pro3: Lower Month-to-Month Costs
Despite the fact that these systems are more costly, they are also more productive. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, tankless water heaters are 22 percent more energy efficient than regular kinds of water heater. Homeowners should expect to save hundreds of dollars yearly, despite the fact that the monthly savings may be little.
Con3: Limited Hot Water Supply
Despite the fact that tankless water heaters provide a constant stream of hot water, the supply is not limitless. Ordinary versions can heat many liters of water at the same time, making them ideal for a single person having a shower or doing the dishes. While one person is running the dishwasher or washing machine, another person is having a shower (or two people are taking showers in two separate bathrooms at the same time), a tankless heater will be unable to keep up with the demand. A typical water heater, which can hold between 30 and 80 gallons of water depending on the type, will have no trouble supplying hot water to many outlets at the same time without breaking a sweat.
Pro4: Space Savings
Tankless water heaters are significantly lower in size than traditional storage ones. Installers often attach them on a wall in an unobtrusive location in the basement, according to the manufacturer. The reduction in floor area is especially beneficial in smaller residences.
Con4: Additional Equipment is Often Necessary
In most cases, a water softener is required to guarantee that a tankless heater performs effectively. Obviously, the additional equipment increases the cost of the device at the time of purchase. Because the softener (as well as the requisite bags of salt) will take up valuable space next to the wall-mounted heater, the softener will offset the space-saving benefit. In fact, it is possible that this equipment will take up more room than a standard hot water heater.
Pro5: Special Financing and Tax Breaks
Tankless heaters often require the use of a water softener in order to function correctly. It goes without saying that the additional equipment increases the cost of the device. Because the softener (as well as the requisite bags of salt) will take up valuable space next to the wall-mounted heater, the softener will offset the space-saving benefits. In fact, it is possible that this equipment will take up more room than a conventional water heater.
Con5: Rerouting Gas Lines
As previously said, tankless water heaters require a non-traditional installation, which increases the cost of the unit’s installation.
Even worse, a contractor may be obliged to redistrict a gas line or install new vents, which would raise the entire cost of the renovation.
Pro6: Tankless Water Heaters Eliminate “Standby Loss”
When it comes to tankless heaters, the most significant selling feature is that they remove “standby loss.” Traditional water heaters reheat water repeatedly, increasing energy expenses with each reheating operation. Even if no one is at home, the water heater is still consuming energy since it is continuously heating up the water in its tank to a safe temperature.
Con6: Could Take Years to Make Up for the Higher Price Tag
While tankless water heaters are less expensive on a month-to-month basis, it might take years for the savings to offset the hefty initial investment. Consumer Reports estimates that switching to a tankless water heater can save a homeowner up to $75 per year in energy savings over the long haul. As a result, it might take anywhere from 6 to 12 years (or more) until the month-to-month savings exceed the price of installation.
Pro7: Never Run Out of Hot Water
Storage tanks will ultimately run out of hot water in homes with high hot water consumption (for example, if three or four people take showers in a row while the dishwasher is running). Using a tankless heater guarantees that everyone has an equally warm shower – as long as the showers are taken consecutively, rather than all at the same time – since it does not rely on stored water to supply the necessary water.
Con7: Changing Water Usage Habits Could Save as Much Money as Going Tankless
An energy-efficient water heater is not the only technique to improve the efficiency of a home’s water system. The simple act of altering bathing habits can result in a large reduction in water bills for a household. Additionally, when the monthly costs of water and heating are combined together, low-flow plumbing fixtures or a more energy-efficient dishwasher might save as much money as a new water heater.
Pro8: Both Electric and Gas Models are Available
Typically, natural gas is used to power tankless water heaters, although electric ones are also available on the market. Depending on the electrical infrastructure of a property, a non-gas unit may be a viable alternative to rerouting gas lines or making other costly and time-consuming modifications.
Con8: Other Options Like Solar Heating are Available
Tankless water heaters are not the only energy-efficient alternative available; solar water heating is becoming increasingly popular around the country. Solar water heaters, which are equipped with solar collectors and storage tanks, avoid the need to reroute gas lines or install new electrical fixtures in the home. Solar water heaters may be utilized in any environment and can even help you recoup your installation expenses more quickly because they do not rely on gas or electricity and instead rely on the power of the sun to heat the water.
Pro9: Tankless Heaters Offer Longer Warranties
Tankless heaters are covered by extended warranties as a result of their long service life. As a result, in the event that something goes wrong, the homeowner will not be responsible for any repairs or replacement costs. Warranties for tankless heaters can last up to 20 years, which is the normal lifespan of a heater of this type.
Con9: Additional Maintenance is Possible
In order to keep the guarantee valid, owners must execute yearly maintenance and, in certain cases, use a water softener.
Aside from that, homeowners should flush out their system once a year to avoid mineral build-up in the heater or the water line. The expense of doing these chores may outweigh some of the savings realized as a result of the tankless heater’s decreased energy demand.
Pro10: Ideal for Smaller Homes With Minimal Hot Water Requirements
If you live in a smaller house with a low need for hot water, a tankless water heater is the best option for you. It is possible to minimize standby loss with these efficient units, and they will offer enough rapid hot water for one to three persons to shower, wash their clothes, and clean dishes at the same time.
Con10: Standard Energy Star Water Heaters are Also Efficient
Traditional storage water heaters that are Energy Star certified are now available on the market. Not only do these apartments provide monthly savings in exchange for a smaller initial investment, but they also qualify for tax deductions. Additionally, because virtually all homes are already built to support these classic water heaters, homeowners will not have to make any substantial alterations to their gas lines or electrical wiring to use them.
A Final Consideration
Tankless water heaters are frequently eligible for PACE financing through Ygrene. Using their local PACE program, homeowners may finance the purchase and installation of a tankless water heater with no money down and no monthly payments. The homeowner then pays for the improvement over a period of time (as a line item on their annual property tax bill). Water heaters that are more traditional in nature may also be eligible for PACE financing in some instances, so it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each choice before deciding on the kind of water heater for your house.
- Approval for financing your new water heater can be obtained.
- For further information, please contact Ygrene at (855) 901 3999 or info@ygrene.com.
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Thinking of upgrading to a tankless water heater? Before doing so, learn the pros and cons of installing one
Are you considering making the switch to a tankless water heater? Before doing so, educate yourself about the advantages and disadvantages of installing one, including the cost, needs, and upkeep. It is possible that you are considering installing a tankless water heater in your house if it is time to replace your current water heater. We’ll explain how tankless water heaters function and point out some of its pros and downsides to assist you in making the best decision about which kind to install.
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How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Known variously as demand type, on-demand, or instantaneous water heaters, these appliances heat water directly, eliminating the need to store water. A flow detecting device is installed in a tankless heater, and it is triggered anytime the hot water tap is opened. A gas burner or an electric element is used to heat the water, which is then sent to the various locations in your home where it is needed. You won’t have to worry about running out of hot water because there isn’t a tank that has to be filled.
Advantages Of Tankless Water Heaters
- They are more compact than typical storage heaters, are wall-mounted, and do not take up any floor space when not in use. As a result of their size, they can be particularly appealing in houses where space is limited
- They can also help you save money on your energy bills. According to the United States Department of Energy, heating water accounts for around 30% of a family’s total energy use. It is possible to save up to 50% on these expenditures by installing a tankless water heater, resulting in an average yearly savings of $80. Tankless water heaters are also more durable and less likely to malfunction, resulting in potentially disastrous flooding in your house. Compared to traditional water heaters, tankless systems have a lifespan that is about twice as long – 20 years or more.
Disadvantages Of Tankless Water Heaters
- Tankless units are more costly than conventional units. It will cost around the same as a standard tank type to purchase an electric tankless heater, however a gas tankless heater would cost between $1,000 to $1,200. The national average for tankless unit installation is somewhat more than $1,700, which is in addition to the original cost of the unit. A safe vent must be created for a gas unit to prevent carbon monoxide from collecting within the property in many circumstances. Existing plumbing must also be expanded or moved in many cases. Tankless water heaters do not provide “instant hot water,” even when energy savings are taken into consideration
- For many households, it will take around 20 years to completely return their expenditures. It is not always the case that a tankless water heater delivers hot water to your faucet any faster than a traditional water heater, contrary to common belief. In fact, a tankless device may be more time consuming. It takes some time for the tankless unit’s heating element to warm up the water before it can be delivered to the faucet
- The amount of hot water that can be delivered is limited by the unit’s ability to heat the water. It is typical for tankless water heaters to provide 2-5 gallon-per-minute flows of hot water, which may not be sufficient for several simultaneous uses of hot water in your home. For example, having a shower and running the dishwasher at the same time may cause a tankless water heater to reach its maximum capacity and fail. Comparing tankless versions, especially if you live in a multi-person home, is important. Pay close attention to the gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate of each type. The bigger the number of users and the greater the number of simultaneous usage options, the higher the GPM requirement. In order to satisfy the needs of a big home, one alternative is to install many tankless units
- However, this can become quite costly over time. It is possible that tankless water heaters will not provide hot water during a power outage. Tankless water heaters, in contrast to traditional water heaters, do not provide a backup hot water supply in emergency scenarios
- Tankless systems are also subject to failure owing to hard water. Hard water is a concern for all water heaters, but it is particularly challenging for tankless water heaters. They should be completely emptied and their filters updated on a monthly basis. They also require frequent flushing to function properly. (Tank units only need to be flushed once or twice a year, at most.) If you don’t take the necessary precautions, hard water can completely ruin a tankless water heater in as little as two years. In addition, failing to adhere to these maintenance requirements may result in the voiding of the manufacturer’s guarantee
- Tankless devices are hard to maintain. Investigate the interior workings of a common tankless water heater or air conditioner. As a result of all the complex technologies tankless water heaters rely on, it is easy to understand how much may possibly go wrong.
Gas or Electric
Electric tankless water heaters are significantly less expensive than their gas counterparts. Installation is less complicated and less expensive, and they are often less difficult to maintain than gas-powered ones. Only a few handful, however, have the capability of serving many locations at the same time. Gas units are available in a wide range of types and sizes for both residential and commercial applications, with outputs ranging from 130,000 to 380,000 BTUs in certain cases. More BTUs equate to more heating capacity.
- As a result, your home’s gas pipe, meter, and main line to the meter may not be correctly proportioned, necessitating a costly reconfiguration and installation of new equipment.
- The total energy efficiency of a tankless water heater is assessed using an energy factor (EF) rating, which is available for both gas and electric types.
- Tankless water heater energy factors now range between.64 and.91 for gas-fired devices, and up to.99 for electric versions, depending on the manufacturer.
- For a home of one or two persons, a tankless electric unit will most likely be more than sufficient.
Water Heater Protection
Whatever method you use to fulfill your household’s hot water requirements, you’ll want to make sure that the investment you’ve made in your water heater is protected. That entails completing the preventative water heater maintenance advised by the manufacturer, as well as routinely emptying the tank (or lines) to remove potentially harmful silt and scale. Consider obtaining an American Home Shield® Water Heater Home Warranty to help reduce the expenses involved with the repair and replacement of your water heater even more.
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Learn how much it costs to Install a Tankless Water Heater.
Published on the 10th of January, 2022. Cati O’Keefe, Expert Home BuildingSustainability Contributor, has reviewed this article. HomeAdvisor has contributed to this article.
Tankless Water Heater Cost
Installation of a tankless water heater costs around $2,317, or between $1,196 and $3,446, depending on labor rates. Tankless model costs vary according on the manufacturer, model type, and flow rate. Comparing estimates from local contractors is the most efficient approach to plan a budget for a new tankless water heater. Inquire with your local professional to see whether your tankless system qualifies for a tax refund. If these devices are installed and linked appropriately, they have the potential to save you money in the long term.
They will have the knowledge and skills to accelerate the installation while also ensuring that it is done correctly.
Tankless Water Heater Cost Calculator
Let’s run some numbers to see what the costs are. What part of the world are you in? What part of the world are you in?
National Average | $2,317 |
Typical Range | $1,196 – $3,446 |
Low End – High End | $350 – $5,200 |
The cost information in this report is based on real project costs provided by 2,690 HomeAdvisor users.
Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost
A professional might charge either an hourly rate or a flat price, depending on the services provided to the customer. Installing a tankless water heater will cost you between $45 and $150 per hour on average, depending on how long it takes. Final labor costs range from $100 and $450 on average.
Cost Factors
Labor and the sort of heating equipment you pick are the two most important cost elements to consider. Consumers will also need to figure out how much material and labor will be required for the appropriate pieces. Typical accessories required include the following:
- Termination vent kits range in price from $40 to $100
- Gas connector kits range in price from $20 to $35
- And a two-piece lead-free brass valve set ranges in price from $60 to 110. Fittings and mounting hardware range from $10 to $30
- Insulation and pipe are priced at $10 per foot.
Other costs to consider include the removal and disposal of the existing heating system, electrical upgrades, additional insulation, and possible structural changes to make room for the new unit.
Get a Quote for Your Tankless System
Other costs to consider include the removal and disposal of the existing heating system, electrical upgrades, additional insulation, and possible structural changes to make room for the new heating unit.
Tankless Type | Average Unit Cost |
---|---|
Natural Gas or Propane | $1,000 – $1,500 |
Electric | $500 – $1,500 |
Solar | $1,400 – $6,000 |
First and foremost, you must determine what sort of unit you will require.
- Noritz gas tankless unit with a BTU output of 199,000: A typical family with many bathrooms will be able to get by with this amount. It might take up to ten hours to complete the installation. Installation of suitable ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as the modification of the size of gas lines and fittings, will be more expensive in terms of labor. Model with an electric motor and a point-of-use interface: This is something that can be fitted under the sink. Installation takes an average of about two hours. It is necessary to have an electric timer, an outlet, and supply lines.
Whole House or Single Point
Tankless systems that are installed at a single point, or at a “point of use,” are those that are installed expressly by and for individual appliances and faucets that require them. They are quite simple to install and range in price from $100 to $300 per unit. They will be more efficient than utilizing a single one for the entire home because the water will only travel a small distance and will thus be wasted less frequently. The fact that they work independently of one another makes these single point systems particularly helpful in homes with several bathrooms and appliances.
However, one whole-house unit will be plenty for an average-sized home with consistent consumption throughout the day. Village Plumbing, LLC is based in Henderson, Nevada. In Las Vegas, gas tankless water heaters cost on average between $800 and $1,500.
Natural Gas or Propane Water Heaters
Installation of natural gas and propane models often costs between $1,000 and $1,500. While all of these types of gas will feed your system in a similar manner, there are some significant variations in the costs of purchase and operation between the two. propane must be purchased separately from natural gas since it is dependent on a utility supply line to be available. If you reside within a specific distance of a natural gas pipeline, you may be obliged to connect to it to heat your home. This isn’t a problem for the vast majority of homeowners.
Propane, on the other hand, is a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient fuel that has a larger BTU capacity than natural gas.
They are also available in a variety of outputs ranging from 140,000 BTUs to 380,000 BTUs and in both residential and commercial categories.
Electric Tankless Water Heater Prices
240V 80 Amp hard-wired electrical service is required for electric whole-house tankless water heaters, which means your home must have a minimum of 150 Amp of electrical service to run all of the equipment. Cati O’Keefe is an expert home builder and contributor to the Home BuildingSustainability website. Electric variants are less costly than gas counterparts, with installation costs ranging from $800 to $1,500 on average. Because there is no requirement for venting, the installation work required is less difficult as compared to gas types.
In comparison to a tank-based unit, the tankless electric unit is 20 percent to 30 percent more energy efficient and produces no greenhouse emissions.
In most cases, electricians charge between $50 and $100 per hour.
- Electric hybrid water heaters are initially more expensive than ordinary electric ones, but they heat water more quickly than conventional electric models. Despite the fact that they are not considered tankless, they have many of the characteristics of a tankless system: They do not require any ventilation and are extremely cost-effective. However, they are only available in versions with a maximum BTU output of 8,700. Electric Models for Point-of-Use: $100 to $300 per unit- These have a number of appealing characteristics, including as their price and ease of installation. Aside from that, they are quite easy to use beneath sinks and in compact spaces, including near washing machines. This is a fantastic alternative for folks who want compact units for campers, boats, and other modest restroom requirements. They are non-corrosive, insulating, visually appealing, and light-weight in design. They contribute to water conservation by easily heating and delivering it swiftly
Find a Pro to Get Your Heater Installed
The initial cost of electric hybrid water heaters is more than that of normal electric versions, but they heat water faster. They do not have the same characteristics as a tankless system, but they do have many of the same features: The fact that they do not require ventilation makes them extremely cost-effective. They are, however, only available in versions with a maximum BTU output of 8,700. Electric Models for Point-of-Use: $100 to $300 per unit – Many appealing characteristics, such as price and ease of installation, are available with these products.
For those who want modest storage spaces for campsites, boats, and other small items such as restrooms, this is an ideal solution.
Their advantages include the fact that they are noncorrosive, insulating, visually appealing, and lightweight. These devices contribute to water conservation by delivering water that is easily heated and delivered rapidly.
Tax Credits
Electric Hybrid Water Heaters: Although initially more expensive than ordinary electric devices, these heat water more quickly than conventional electric ones. Despite the fact that they are not considered tankless, they have several characteristics with tankless systems: They do not require ventilation and are extremely cost-effective. However, they are only available in versions with a maximum BTU capacity of 8,700. Electric Models for Point-of-Use: $100 to $300 each- These have a number of appealing characteristics, including as cost and ease of installation.
This is a fantastic alternative for folks who want compact units for campers, boats, and other small restrooms or showers.
They contribute to water conservation by simply heating and delivering it swiftly.
Popular Tankless Heater Brands
Tankless Prices by Brand | |
---|---|
A.O. Smith | $600 – $4,000 |
Bradford White | $500 – $2,000 |
EcoSmart | $150 – $6,000 |
Rheem | $200 – $2,000 |
Rinnai | $500 – $4,300 |
Takagi | $500 – $7,000 |
Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater
“The advantage of using a tankless water heater is that you are avoiding any liability from leaks. We receive calls on a regular basis from customers whose conventional tank heaters have failed. Even the new ones fail since they are only capable of carrying 50, 40, or 100 gallons of water each. That leak might cause substantial harm if you’re on vacation and it happens to you. The advantage of using a tankless system is that you won’t have to worry about it.” Twin Home Experts is owned and operated by Jim Schuelke in Phoenix, Arizona.
So, how can customers choose which one is the best fit for their needs and preferences?
The flow rate is measured by counting the number of gallons that are produced every minute (gpm).
Check out the table below to determine which tankless water heater capacity is most appropriate for you: 1.
Average Water Usage for Common Household Features
- Washing machine flow rates are 1.5-3.0 gpm
- Shower flow rates are 1.0-2.0 gpm
- Bathroom faucet flow rates are 0.5-1.5 gpm
- Dishwasher flow rates are 1.0-2.5 gpm
- Kitchen flow rates are 3.0-9.0 gpm.
Compare Quotes For You Tankless Heater Installation
- Shower: 1.5-3.0 gpm
- Bathroom faucet: 0.5-1.5% of total water consumption
- Dishwasher: 1.5% to 2.55% of total water consumption
- Kitchen faucet: 3.0% to 9.0% of total water consumption
- Washing machine: 1.5-3.0% of total water consumption
Pros of Tankless Units
This is not a project that the ordinary do-it-yourself homeowner should attempt. Many homes will need to be modified in order to suit this system, which may need the installation of new wiring or gas lines, the installation of new plumbing and fittings, and the rebuilding of drywall. This task must be conducted by a qualified professional in some areas, which is required by law. This is due to building rules governing carbon monoxide emissions, heat resistance, ventilation, and state-specific codes, such as seismic straps in California, among other things.
Additionally, they may make certain that you have the proper equipment for your property.
Using a professional ensures that the job is completed quickly and accurately, preventing your house from becoming flooded while you wait for a plumbing permit. Get the Job Done Right the First Time. Locate a Professional in Your Area
FAQs
The payback time for these products is rather lengthy. Despite the fact that they are expected to endure for 20 years, it will take around 20 years for your energy savings to match your initial outlay. So the value of these models is determined by their use to you and their potential utility in attracting future home purchasers to your neighborhood. By selecting the most appropriate model for your consumption requirements, you may increase the return on your investment.
Are tankless hot water heaters better?
The advantages of these models over conventional models are numerous. They save water by heating as they go, and they can help you save money on your energy bills. As a result, they are more durable and require less maintenance than conventional tanks since they do not store water, which may erode tank material and create leaks.
Do tankless hot water heaters work without electricity?
In the event of a power failure, these units will not function. Even gas versions require power to operate their spark igniter, which is a common problem with gas models.
What temperature should you set a tankless water heater?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommended that products be stored at 120 degrees Fahrenheit for the greatest amount of safety and efficiency. Do not set your unit to a temperature higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit under any circumstance.
What is the best rated tankless water heater?
In order to provide the highest level of safety and efficiency, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not set your unit to a temperature higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit under any circumstances.
How much water does a 20-minute shower use?
A typical shower consumes 2.5 to 3.0 gallons per minute, resulting in a 20-minute shower consuming 50 to 60 gallons of water. In most cases, these water heaters are capable of producing 4 to 8 gallons of hot water per minute.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Tankless Water Heater in San Antonio?
A tankless water heater installation in San Antonio can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $8,500, with an average cost of $5,200 on the market today. Given the wide range of variables that influence the cost of your installation, the only way to know the exact cost to install a tankless water heater is to have a qualified plumber visit to your home and examine the present system and hot water requirements. There are a number of factors that will have an influence on the cost of your installation, including:
- The unit’s physical dimensions
- The type of tankless unit that is used
- The kind of fuel used
- The plumber that you employ
Following that, we’ll take a deeper look at each of these elements to give you a better sense of how much money you’ll need to spend on your tankless water heater installation. Want a professional to provide you with an accurate price for your tankless water heater installation? Look no further. Call us at (210) 227-8358 or use our online scheduling tool to make an appointment: Make an appointment as soon as possible.
Cost Factor1: The size of the unit
Tankless water heaters, in contrast to standard tank water heaters, which keep 20–100 gallons of heated water, do not store any water at all. As opposed to this, they heat the water as it passes through the unit. As a result, there are two parameters that influence the “size” of a tankless water heater:
Temperature rise:
This refers to the temperature difference (measured in degrees) between the groundwater entering your home and the temperature at which your water is set. As a result, the temperature rise is dictated by the number of degrees the entering water must be heated in order to achieve the specified temperature.
For example, here in San Antonio, the normal groundwater temperature is 72 degrees, but you want your hot water to be 120 degrees. You will thus require a tankless water heater with a temperature increase of at least 48 degrees Celsius.
Flow rate:
Each minute, the unit may create a maximum of gallons of hot water, which is shown by this number (gpm). The higher the flow rate, the more costly the tankless device is to buy and maintain. The size of the water heater you require (in terms of flow rate) is determined by the total flow rate of all of your other household appliances that you use concurrently. As an example, if you want to operate both your kitchen sink and your washing machine at the same time, you will need a flow rate that is equal to or more than the combined flow rates of your kitchen sink and washing machine.
For the sake of comparison, the following are the average flow rates of a few commonly used water appliances:
- The following flow rates are recommended: washing machine: 1.5 – 2.0 gpm
- Kitchen faucet: 0.5 – 2.5 gpm
- Dishwasher:1.0 – 2.5 gpm
- Showerhead:1.0 – 3.0 gpm
Cost factor2: The type of tankless unit
There are two types of tankless water heaters: electric and natural gas. The cost of whole-home units is often higher than the cost of POU units since they offer hot water to all of the plumbing fixtures in your house. Hot water is delivered to a single appliance or room in your house using a point-of-use (POU) device (like a bathroom or laundry room). So, how can you choose which sort of unit is the most appropriate for your residence? If you have a typical-sized home, a whole-house unit will most likely be sufficient to heat enough water to run all of your appliances at once.
For example, if you have a high-flow equipment such as a washing machine or a dishwasher, you may want to consider installing a POU unit in addition to a whole-house unit to ensure that you have adequate hot water.
Cost factor3: The type of fuel
Despite the fact that gas water heaters are more expensive to install than electric water heaters, gas water heaters are also less expensive to run on a monthly basis. Gas water heaters are more expensive to install because, in addition to the water heater itself, a gas water heater requires the following items:
- If you don’t already have a gas line running to your home, you’ll need to have one installed, which will raise the cost of your water heater installation by around $1,500 or more
- Gas line installation If your property has natural gas service, but the line isn’t close enough to your tankless water heater, the gas line will need to be extended, increasing the cost of installation. Exhaust Ventilation: Gas water heaters emit gases that must be vented to the outside of your home. If you’ve never had a gas water heater before, a plumber will be required to install the venting as well, which will increase the cost of the installation.
Electric water heaters are less expensive to install than gas water heaters since they do not necessitate the installation of extra infrastructure as gas water heaters do. The only additional expense you may incur as a result of using an electric water heater is the cost of upgrading your electrical panel.
It is possible that the electrical panel in your home does not have enough power to accommodate the additional load created by a new water heater. If you want an update to your electrical panel, you could expect to pay an additional $1,000-$2,000.
Cost factor4: The plumber you hire
In many cases, the plumber you choose will have a significant influence on the final cost of your installation. Generally speaking, more experienced plumbers will charge more money, but they will almost always provide higher-quality installations, which will save you money in the long term. Contractors of lower quality will usually price you less money for a tankless water heater installation, but you’ll be hard pushed to find a contractor that costs less money and executes the work correctly on the first try.
What is the best way to go about locating a reputable plumber?
- A valid driver’s license as well as insurance. By checking a plumber’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page, you may determine whether or not they are licensed and insured in your area. If they are accredited by the Better Business Bureau, it indicates that they have a valid license and insurance.
- Online reviews that are trustworthy. Check online review sites such as Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau.
- Pricing that is open and transparent. A tankless water heater installation business that gives you with an upfront, written estimate of the cost to install your tankless water heater protects you from any unexpected expenditures or fines.
Ready to have your tankless water heater installed by a San Antonio Pro?
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That massive hot water storage tank in your basement? You know the one. But what if we told you that a water heater the size of a carry-on bag could provide the same quantity of hot water (or more) while saving you at least $100 a year on your power bill? Those are the promises made by tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, which create hot water only when you turn on the water faucet, start a washing machine or dishwasher cycle or do something else that requires hot water.
That’s because they have a reputation for being more energy efficient, which is a desirable trait considering that heating water is the second most expensive utility expense for the average American household after heating and cooling the house itself.
The results were published in the magazine Consumer Reports.
A tankless water heater is a more complicated installation than a storage tank water heater since it requires a plumbing retrofit as well as an upgrade to your electric service or gas lines to enhance the available capacity.
Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are worth considering if your storage tank water heater is reaching the end of its useful life and you’re interested in conserving both space and energy.
“They’ve come a long way,” he adds.
The feeling of “buyer’s regret” may be quite severe, according to him.
Consumers who are accustomed to obtaining water from a standing tank of previously heated water will find that, while “tankless has its advantages,” there is a slight learning curve to get used to.
According to the temperature of your groundwater, you may also have to wait for the water to get warm before using it.
We also calculated the costs of installation for both storage tank and tankless water heaters, as well as the time it would take a homeowner to recoup the investment in a tankless water heater (known as the payback time).
“It’s a difficult test,” Banta admits.
Tankless heaters for the entire home are meant to provide a specific volume of hot water per minute—3 to 4 gallons per minute in this case—and they did, according to Banta.
They then compared the groups with their conventional storage tank models that used the same fuel.
Tank for storing materials: Stored-tank water heaters are commonly available in capacities ranging from 30 to 60 gallons, with the most popular being 50 gallons.
These tanks continually heat water, either using natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, or propane, in order to have a complete supply of water on hand.
Storage tanks can be as tall as 5 feet and as wide as 2 feet.
If your water heater is located in the basement, you may not be concerned about the amount of room it takes up.
It’s also worth noting that, as a result of current federal energy requirements, a replacement storage tank may take up more room than your old one, even if it has the same capacity, because modern tanks are obliged to have greater insulation than older ones.
According to the energy-saving technologies employed, tanks holding 55 gallons or more would necessitate even more floor space than smaller tanks.
Instead, they heat the water as it flows through the unit, employing a heat exchanger to quickly bring it up to the proper operating temperature.
Tankless water heaters for the entire home attach on the wall, saving you valuable floor space and fitting into narrow areas.
Tank style water heaters are less costly than tankless water heaters since they store water in a tank.
However, we have seen tank water heaters priced for less at home improvement stores, and tanks with greater capacities or energy-efficiency enhancements cost more.
However, most manufacturers recommend that you hire a licensed plumber, and you may need one because tank water heaters have altered in recent years to meet more stringent energy efficiency rules.
If the current hookups are suitable, the cost can be as low as $600.
The prices of the nine devices we tested ranged from $525 to $1,150.
The venting and gas supply requirements of gas tankless models may differ from those of conventional tankless models, necessitating a larger diameter pipe connecting the water heater and the gas meter.
Tankless water heaters should only be installed by licensed electricians or plumbers, according to the manufacturers.
In order to evaluate the performance of traditional water heaters with tankless systems, we included two conventional water heaters in our testing as a control.
A few differences in performance between the gas and electric models were observed when using the tankless model (see below).
(the amount of running water needed for the heater to kick in).
Electric models, on the other hand, may be more suited to locations with warmer groundwater, like as the southern United States.
Both are rated as Good in terms of energy efficiency.
Tankless: Tankless water heaters, whether gas or electric, operate more effectively than conventional water heaters of the same fuel type.
Using the same rates as above, the annual operating costs for a gas tankless water heater are $195 and $535, respectively.
The rising cost of power, he explains, makes electric models more expensive to operate.
Storage tank: Our payback calculations are based on replacing a 50-gallon storage tank water heater with a tankless water heater, and then calculating how much it costs to operate the tankless model and how much energy it saves in comparison.
Tankless: We calculated an installation cost of $1,250 for a gas tankless system and a slightly lower cost of $1,150 for an electric tankless system.
The payback time for replacing a traditional electric tank with an electric tankless ranges from 12 to 20 years for an electric type, assuming energy prices of $0.132 per KWh.
For one thing, removing a huge tank requires far more time and work than removing the significantly smaller tankless units.
It doesn’t make financial sense to replace a tank water heater with a tankless water heater if you have a warranty that lasts 12 to 15 years, as is typical, according to Banta.
To flush out sediment from a tank water heater, manufacturers also recommend that you drain the tank water heater on a regular basis.
It’s also a good idea to clean out the sediment filter on the heater on an ongoing basis.
The frequency with which you should flush your tankless water heater is determined by the quality of your water.
It makes a difference whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, and whether you want to save on space, have unlimited hot water, or enhance energy efficiency during the process.
If you rely on electricity to heat your water, you have an option that is superior to either a standard tank or a tankless water heater: a solar-powered water heater.
While it has a holding tank, similar to a conventional water heater, the heat pump mounted on top of the tank captures warm air from the surrounding environment and transfers it to the water—sort of like a refrigerator working backwards.
That is one of the reasons why it is so energy efficient.
“Heat pumps also have heating elements, just like conventional water heaters,” says Banta.
Efficiency was excellent, and yearly running expenses were modest, at about $240 per year on average.
If you’re thinking about installing an electric heat pump, be sure you understand the space requirements.
They also require around 1,000 cubic feet of surrounding air to draw from, which is approximately the amount of air that circulates in a 12-by-12-foot space.
Depending on whether you are installing a new water heater or replacing an existing one, you may be eligible for a rebate from your local utility provider, which can help to cover some of the costs.
Mary H.J.
Knowing from an early age that I aspired to be a journalist, I decided to spruce up my byline by adding the middle letters “H.J.” to it.
Having worked in both print and online journalism, I’ve held positions at People magazine, MSNBC, the Ladies’ Home Journal, Good Housekeeping and as a want tobe Consumer Reports online. However, the genuine article is far superior. You may follow me on Twitter.