What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

Why avoid a tankless water heater

A tankless water heater can only heat so much water at a time. If you demand more hot water than the unit can generate—for instance, if you run the dishwasher, washing machine and shower at the same time—the temperature of the water will fluctuate since the heater is trying to provide for all three locations at once.
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What is the most common issue with tankless water heaters

The commonest complaint we get with tankless water heaters is that they don't seem to provide hot water as quickly as expected. Like most tankless water heaters, if your water heater does not have a buffer tank or a recirculation pump, it may take a minute or two for the water to heat up before it comes out of the tap.

What are the cons of a tankless water heater

Pros and cons of on-demand hot water

Pros of tankless water heaters Cons of tankless water heaters
High efficiency Limited flow rate
Long-term savings High upfront cost
Environmentally friendly Can require prior setup work

Jan 21, 2023
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Are tankless water heaters worth it

For many people, the long-term benefits of tankless heaters more than compensate for their initial expense. A tankless heater can be up to 34% more efficient than a traditional water heater. This increase in efficiency can amount to annual savings of over $100, depending on the type and size of the heater.

Should I replace my hot water heater with a tankless

The Pros of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

Avoid the risk of flooding due to a ruptured tank. Tankless water heaters consume less energy because they only need enough power to heat water as it's needed. Tankless water heaters are more efficient and don't experience standby heat loss.

Can you run out of hot water with a tankless water heater

You can't run out of hot water with tankless water heaters – unless, of course, the power supply is off or goes out. However, a tankless water heater can have trouble keeping up with demand if too many things require hot water all at once.

How many years does a tankless water heater last

12 to 30 years

With proper maintenance and water treatment, a tankless water heater can last anywhere from 12 to 30 years.

Where should tankless water heater not be installed

You should not install your tankless system in an area that is prone to moisture or excess humidity, or where liquids may splash on it. Moisture can corrode the burner and restrict gas supply, causing the system to shut down. The location of your heater should be free from dust and debris.

Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill

The initial cost of a tankless water heater is greater than that of a conventional storage water heater, but tankless water heaters will typically last longer and have lower operating and energy costs, which could offset their higher purchase price.

How many showers can a tankless water heater run

two showers

A unit heating more than 7 gallons per minute can typically handle two showers and a large appliance. *Important to note: Tankless units do not literally provide “instant hot water” – the hot water still takes time to flow from the unit to the faucet.

Can you take long showers with a tankless water heater

With a tankless water heater, you can take a shower, use the dishwasher, and do laundry all at the same time without losing hot water.

Do you have to flush a tankless water heater every year

Over time, a tankless water heater may accumulate mineral build up which can erode the walls inside your tank's heating chamber. To properly maintain and clean your tankless water heater, it's important to flush those mineral deposits at least once a year.

Is it better to install a tankless water heater inside or outside

Outdoor installation helps you avoid much of the hassle of indoor installation. You don't need to worry about ripping out a section of the drywall, running the gas line over to the unit or running the exhaust outside. The unit is more accessible on the outside of the building for its yearly maintenance.

Do you always have hot water with a tankless water heater

When a hot water faucet is turned on, cold water flows through a heat exchanger in the unit, and either a natural gas burner or an electric element heats the water. As a result, tankless water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. You don't need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water.

Can two people shower at same time with tankless water heater

They Don't Supply Enough Hot Water for Large Families

Even the largest whole-house tankless unit may not supply enough hot water for simultaneous, multiple uses. Such a unit may be able to supply only two showers simultaneously or perhaps one shower, a dishwasher and a sink.

Can you run 2 showers at the same time with a tankless water heater

Yes. You must choose the proper model to suit your home's hot water needs, which is based upon the maximum flow of hot water you need at any one time. You can buy tankless water heaters that are capable of handling one shower at a time and others that can sustain a maximum of two showers operating at the same time.

Can a tankless water heater fill a bathtub

Yes, usually. A tankless water heater can provide hot water indefinitely, which means it will fill up the tub. However, you still need to consider how fast the heater can provide the temperature of water you want.

How much longer does it take to get hot water from a tankless water heater

Instant Hot Water

Tankless units take about 15 seconds to bring water up to temperature, but you still have to wait for that hot water to arrive at your shower head or faucet, just as you do with a tank-type heater.

What is the life expectancy of tankless hot water

12 to 30 years

With proper maintenance and water treatment, a tankless water heater can last anywhere from 12 to 30 years.

Can I take a long shower with a tankless water heater

With a tankless water heater, you can take a shower, use the dishwasher, and do laundry all at the same time without losing hot water.