A Guide to Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters hold several efficiency benefits and use less energy than traditional storage tank systems while providing a nearly endless stream of hot water for warm showers and baths. These benefits have led thousands of Canadians to consider installing tankless water heaters in their home. If you’re evaluating your home water heater and want to know more about tankless water heaters, their function, benefits, and limitations, this post is for you.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Water heating in a tankless water heater begins with cold water flowing through the heat exchanger, where either a natural gas burner or an electric heating element heats the water. The water is heated as it travels to the pipe toward your source within the home. Most tankless water heaters supply two to five gallons of hot water per minute.
Why Are Tankless Water Heaters Gaining Popularity in Canada?
Thousands of Canadians are now investing in tankless water heaters, and according to the latest research, the North American tankless water heater market will grow to $6.8 billion in value by 2028. Their popularity is due to evolving environmental targets, changing lifestyles, and general in-home convenience. Tankless water heaters hold the following modern benefits:
Water Efficiency Reduces Energy Costs
Water heating comprises 20% of the energy expenses for the average Canadian family. Tankless water heaters help save hundreds of dollars on water heating costs annually. These cost savings are due to how tankless water heaters heat water on demand, compared with traditional storage tank heaters, which heat the entire tank capacity ready for use.
Limited Space Requirements Ideal for Strata Properties
The average traditional storage tank heater measures 60 inches high and 20 inches wide. Their small size is one of the leading functional benefits of tankless water heaters, which, on average, are 20 inches tall and 28 inches wide.
Their smaller footprint explains why tankless water heaters are now commonly used in strata buildings and other multifamily properties. With the B.C. multifamily property marketplace expanding rapidly, many expect the number of tankless heaters used across the province to increase alongside it.
Reduced Maintenance Means Less Hassle for Homeowners
Another rising trend across the country is homeowners choosing home equipment that limits the need for expert maintenance or repairs. In the case of tankless water heaters, there’s little compromise needed for systems that require less repair than traditional storage tank heaters.
Tankless heaters, on average, require maintenance every three to four years, compared with traditional water heaters, which often require annual maintenance to sustain both water quality and system performance.
A Longer Lifespan Helps Cut Down on Water Tank Replacement Costs
Through professional maintenance by your local plumber, tankless water heaters will perform effectively for up to twenty years. Meanwhile, you may only achieve an effective lifespan of eight to ten years with a traditional water heater.
It’s why many home sellers looking to give their property a market-ready appeal choose to replace their traditional water heater with a tankless water heater to showcase a lasting investment in home value.
But There are Drawbacks to Consider When Shopping for Tankless Units
Tankless water heaters hold the performance advantage over traditional tank systems. However, there are some drawbacks to consider when you’re comparing the two options.
Tankless Water Heaters Are More Expensive to Buy
Your upfront costs will be higher when you choose a tankless water heater. The initial cost for the equipment purchase and installation of a tankless water heater can be as much as double a storage tank heater.
Multiple Heaters May be Required for Simultaneous Use
If you have a large family and plan on using multiple hot water appliances simultaneously in the home, you may require several tankless units to keep up with demand.
Gas Versus Electric Tankless Water Heaters
One final point of consideration is the power source for your tankless water heater. Generally, there are two options: gas or electric water heaters.
Electric tankless water heaters are less expensive to buy and install than gas tankless systems. However, gas-powered equipment may be less costly to operate due to the higher cost of electricity. Another consideration for those with older homes is the need to retrofit their electrical panel for the demands of a high-power tankless heater.
Your Local Tankless Water Heater Installation Company
Thunderbird Plumbing serves homeowners throughout Greater Victoria with a range of tankless water heater installation and repair options. We’re experts in the latest models from top manufacturers such as Rheem and Rinnai and can help you select your equipment and install the water heater seamlessly in your home.
Call Thunderbird Plumbing now to speak with our team about your tankless water heater equipment options.