Many people are still using traditional water heaters that use a water storage method. Contrary to popular belief, their tankless counterparts are also known as “demand-type” or “instantaneous water heaters” have been around since about the early 20th century.
It’s baffling how this hasn’t caught that much popularity within the United States despite having been present in the market for many decades. The benefits of owning a tankless water heater are undeniable, and many are making the switch to this type of water heater.
Lower Utility Bills
Tankless water heaters are also called “demand-type” because they operate only when demand is present in a household or establishment. The unit only starts heating when a person needs warm water. This means that your gas or power is only being used to heat water as needed.
Storage water heaters, on the other hand, are continually heating the water within their containers. This way they’ll always have hot water ready to be used when needed. Unfortunately, this also means it’ll be gradually increasing your expenses.
Continuous Supply
Tankless or instantaneous water heaters can maintain an unceasing flow of hot water, which is especially useful for enterprises that may suffer consequences if there are gaps of downtime. This is because tankless models are not limited to the size of a receptacle.
On the other hand, storage heaters often experience depletion of their reservoirs. It usually happens when large amounts of water are utilized immediately. As it tries to replenish the supplies inside its tank and heat it, it just cannot cope with the excessive requests for hot water. You might have experienced this if you were last in line to get a shower in a big household!
Decreased Risk of Flooding
Tank-type heaters are more at risk of causing floods within a home or building because of the presence of a storage unit, which if it leaks, can provide large volumes of hot water to wreak havoc indoors. Old units can become vulnerable to this if they are left unchecked and improperly maintained or secured. They may become damaged, resulting in openings for water to exit from.
Tankless water heaters do not pose this hazard as much unless someone leaves the water running or there is a problem with plumbing.
The biggest downside to the tankless water heater is the price. The higher initial cost compared to the more common water heater is easily offset by its efficiency. The tankless water heater allows you to save loads due to lesser costs for power and gas.
Not to mention that these are so much more durable as they could last about five more years so as long as they are taken care of. Don’t skip that regular maintenance, so you optimize every dollar spent on it. Be sure to have only a licensed professional do the installation and monthly servicing, so you’re assured of quality.
Still not sure? Call Christian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical today. Our committed technicians can evaluate your home and needs as to whether getting a tankless water heater is best for you. Call us at (215) 488-5795 to inquire or even schedule an in-home consultation for a more accurate assessment.
