Benefits of a Small Tankless Hot Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are a great alternative to traditional tanks. They are also more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
This small electric unit is perfect for supplying one sink or even a vacation home with hot water. It’s low wattage and compact size make it an ideal option for those on a budget.
1. Space Saving
Unlike a traditional water heater with its tank, a small tankless hot water heater sits on your wall and takes up very little space. This is especially beneficial if you have limited storage space.
Because they heat water on demand, tankless hot water heaters operate at a lower temperature and reduce energy consumption compared to traditional units. This leads to a greater savings in your energy bill and fewer disruptions from running out of hot water.
However, on-demand systems can have limitations when it comes to heating large amounts of water. They typically generate 2 to 5 gallons of hot small tankless hot water heater water per minute. This is enough for showers, washing machines, and dishwashers but may not be enough for multiple appliances at the same time.
You can maximize the benefits of your new water heater by hiring a plumber with experience working on this type of system. They know how to correctly install your new heater, ensuring it meets local codes and permits. They also understand how to handle gas and plumbing connections for your system to run safely and efficiently.
2. Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners are interested in ways to lower their energy consumption. One common solution is to use low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, which can help save water while also reducing energy consumption. Another option is to insulate your pipes, which can also reduce the amount of heat lost during water transmission.
A tankless hot water heater can also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Because it doesn’t have a storage tank, it uses significantly less energy than a traditional water heater. The system heats only the water you need on demand, eliminating wasteful standby energy usage. Plus, a gas tankless water heater can be connected to your solar power system for even greater savings.
The most effective way to lower your energy bill is by installing a new, high-efficiency water heater. Look for the bright yellow Energy Star label to determine how efficient a model is. A condensing model offers additional savings as it utilizes a dual heat exchanger to maximize system efficiency.
3. Constant Hot Water
Unlike traditional water heaters, which store a supply of hot water at all times, tankless water heaters tankless instant water heater heat your water on demand. This helps you save money by avoiding standby loss, which occurs when the water sits dormant in a storage tank, gets reheated, and then cools back down.
You can also enjoy an endless supply of hot water, because tankless heaters only warm up your water when you turn on a faucet. This means you can take long showers without worrying about the water running out.
But it is important to note that a tankless water heater may have problems with inconsistent temperatures, especially in hard-water areas. This can happen because of mineral build-up inside the heat exchanger, which requires regular flushing to keep your system working correctly.
This can also be caused by improper sizing of the unit, so it’s best to use a professional plumber when installing one. They can ensure your unit is properly sized for your home and that it can handle all your water needs, including multiple hot water fixtures being used simultaneously.
4. Easy to Install
While it may be possible to install a tankless water heater yourself, if your home requires updates to accommodate the new unit, or if you’re installing gas lines, we recommend hiring a professional to handle all of the required work. A professional will know how to navigate local plumbing and electrical codes, as well as abide by all laws relating to carbon monoxide emissions, thermal resistance, venting, and more.
In some cases, installing a small tankless hot water heater will require upgrading the gas line size or running a new corrugated stainless steel (CSST) line for combustion air and venting. A professional plumber can handle this safely and efficiently.
Once your old water heater is disconnected, it can be scrapped for cash or recycled according to local regulations. Then, you’ll be ready to install the new unit. Shut off the main water supply to stop flow to the house, then plan the piping layout and build a mounting box according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Connect the incoming and outgoing pipes using Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant, then use a wrench to tighten them securely but not excessively. Double-check all connections and seals for leaks.
5. Less Maintenance
There’s nothing worse than jumping in the shower to get ready for a day of work and then finding cold water. A tankless system eliminates this problem because it heats water only when needed, and on demand.
To ensure you have the right size unit for your household, we’ll measure all the faucets and showerheads to determine their flow rates (older pre-1992 models might require up to three times as much water volume). We also consider the desired temperature rise and how many showers and other uses might be on at once.
Although a tankless water heater lasts twice as long as a traditional storage water heater, it requires routine maintenance to keep it operating at peak efficiency. This includes a vinegar flush (instructions vary by model) to remove hard-water deposits that can clog the heating exchanger, and scheduling professional annual service to clean or replace air and sediment filters, drain the unit, and check the gas and electrical connections. Depending on where you live, you may need to replace the burner assembly and reroute the exhaust vents, as well.
