A water heater that heats on demand
If your current water heater is nearing the end of its life, or you want a more efficient model, a tankless water heater is well worth considering. Also known as on-demand water heaters, tankless units heat water instantly as it flows through the device, rather than storing and continuously heating a tank of water. Here's how the two compare:
| System | Life expectancy | Size and supply |
|---|---|---|
| Tank water heater | Life expectancy 6-8 years in Houston | Size and supply Typically 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide for a 40-60 gallon size, and it can run out of hot water. |
| Tankless water heater | Life expectancy Over 20 years | Size and supply With proper maintenance. About the size of a small suitcase, can be wall-mounted, heats as water flows. |
That design adds up to five benefits worth knowing before you replace your next water heater.
1. Hot water for as long as you need it
One of the biggest advantages of a tankless system is an endless supply of hot water whenever you need it. Tank heaters can run out, leaving you with an unpleasantly cold shower. Tankless units heat the water as it passes through and keep supplying hot water as long as you need it.
That makes them ideal for households with high hot water demands, and it's a top reason homeowners choose tankless water heater installation.
2. Lower energy bills
Tankless water heaters heat water only when a tap or appliance is turned on. Tank heaters continuously heat and reheat a large volume of water, so tankless is much more energy-efficient.
How much more depends on your household. Tankless units can be 24-34% more efficient in homes that use under 41 gallons of hot water per day, and 8-14% more efficient in homes that use around 86 gallons per day. That improved efficiency means lower monthly energy bills, whether you're in Houston proper or need water heater service in The Woodlands.
3. More room in your home
Traditional tank water heaters are large: typically 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide for a 40-60 gallon size. Tankless heaters are about the size of a small suitcase and can be wall-mounted, so they take up significantly less room.
That frees up precious square footage you can put to better use, an especially welcome benefit in smaller houses, apartments and condos.
4. A longer life than a tank
With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of over 20 years, compared with 6-8 years for a tank in Houston (8-12 nationally). The upfront cost is higher, but the longer service life offers a better return on investment over time.
Tankless units also have easily replaceable parts that can extend their life even further.
5. Less risk of leaks and water damage
Tank-style water heaters can develop leaks and even burst as they age, potentially causing serious water damage and expensive repairs. Tankless units avoid this issue because they don't store large volumes of water.
All plumbing carries some risk of leaks. Going tankless reduces the chances of a catastrophic failure.
Is tankless right for your home?
Tankless water heaters have many benefits, but they aren't ideal for every home. The upfront costs are higher, and their limited flow rate may be insufficient for very large households with simultaneous hot water demands.
For most homeowners, though, the energy savings, endless hot water and space-saving design make a tankless water heater an excellent choice.
Want to learn more about tankless water heaters or get one installed? Reach out to the experts at Hot Water Guys. Our knowledgeable team can help determine whether a tankless system is right for your needs and provide professional installation. Contact Hot Water Guys today to experience the benefits of tankless hot water in your home.
Common questions
What is a tankless water heater?
Also called an on-demand water heater, a tankless unit heats water instantly as it flows through the device, rather than storing and continuously heating a tank of water.
How much more efficient is tankless than a tank?
Tankless units can be 24-34% more efficient in homes that use under 41 gallons of hot water per day, and 8-14% more efficient in homes that use around 86 gallons per day.
How long does a tankless water heater last?
With proper maintenance, over 20 years, compared with 6-8 years for a tank in Houston (8-12 nationally). Easily replaceable parts can extend that even further.
Is a tankless water heater right for every home?
Not always. The upfront cost is higher, and the limited flow rate may be insufficient for very large households with simultaneous hot water demands. For most homeowners, the energy savings, endless hot water and space-saving design make it an excellent choice.