Top Tankless Water Heater Questions Answered

The first electric hot water tank was developed by a man named Edwin Rudd in 1889. While the concept was rudimentary, it evolved into the hot water storage tanks we use today. Now, modern water heaters don’t require tanks at all.

To help our clients better understand the ins and outs of this concept, we’ve developed a tankless water heater FAQ. Here’s what you need to know about tankless heaters.

How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?

Imagine turning on a hot water tap and having water heated the moment you turned the tap. This is the idea behind the tankless heater. Rather than heating and storing hot water all day long, the unit heats water as it’s needed specifically for the use it is requested. How does this magic appliance function? The water travelling through the pipe starts out cold and is heated by electric elements or a burner. The result is hot water.

Some households choose to install more than one tankless heater so multiple water sources can be heated simultaneously. While the heater doesn’t run out of hot water the way a storage tank does, it can be overworked if too many requests for hot water are made at once.

What are the Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters?

Many Canadians considering a tankless heater wonder what possible advantages there are to be switching from the old system. Some benefits include:

Longevity – The average hot water tank lasts around 10-years. A tankless heater, on the other hand, has an average lifespan of approximately 20-years. So, while the unit costs more to purchase, it will save money over time.

Energy Savings – It’s not just money you save using a tankless heater. These units are also energy efficient. Because the water heater isn’t running all day every day, storing the hot water it heats, it saves you energy over time on your electric bill.

Water on Demand – Traditional hot water tanks provide water on demand, but only until the tank runs empty. Then you’re stuck taking a cold shower or trying to rinse dinner dishes in cool water. Tankless systems don’t rely on water which has been saved. Instead, it uses water, which is heated the moment it’s needed.

How Much do Tankless Water Heaters Cost on Average?

In Canada, the average cost of a tankless water heater varies by size and heating method. For example, a small electric unit with the ability to heat a single sink faucet, runs about $330.00 CAD, while a large gas unit could cost as much as $1650.00 CAD.

Price comparisons between retailers, by brand, and by heating method can save you money on a tankless heater.

Where Can a Tankless Water Heater be Installed?

Tankless heaters should be installed on the floor you plan to use the most water, or on multiple floors. For example, if your family uses more hot water in the tub and shower, installing the heater upstairs is best. Installing the unit in the basement for laundry would extend the wait for hot water to reach the upstairs faucets.

At Comfort Plus Climate Care, we’re pleased to serve our neighbours in Brantford and Cambridge with all their heating and cooling needs. For more information on tankless water heaters, contact us today.

_SOURCES:

_{https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-and-cool/water-heating/tankless-or-demand-type-water-heaters}

_{https://tanksandheaters.com/edwin-ruud-father-of-the-hot-water-heater/}