Energy Efficient Tankless Water Heaters

Seems like there are many reasons for liking energy efficient tankless hot water heaters! I will review the pros and cons, but you will have to make the final decision as to whether or not they're for you.

Mostly they have a longer life expectancy, save money, save energy, take less space, and have an endless supply of hot water.

First there is the life expectancy. Make sure that you consider this when you're doing your calculations. The life span for a regular hot water tank type heater will probably be in the 10 - 12 year range. Of course there are factors that will change that, such as the quality of your water. The life expectancy of a energy efficient tankless water heater will be closer to the 20 year range. And I did find some with a limited lifetime warranty.

There seem to be a lot of numbers floating around as to the amount of savings. The energy efficient tankless water heater could be as much as 40% more energy efficient, depending on who you believe and your personal use habits. The standard water heater keeps water at a constant temperature and is forever reheating the water. The tankless, also known as “on demand” type of water heater only heats water when it is needed. Consider the savings if you went on vacation or even if you did not normally use hot water for many hours.

The space savings is an additional benefit. Because they're mounted on the wall, they do not use any floor space, plus they can be mounted closer to where the hot water is needed. This gives you a lot more flexibility when choosing a location. You may also want to consider having more than just one. For example, if you had a far away area with minimal use, you could use a smaller unit. This would take some of the burden off of the main unit, and put the water closer to where it is needed.

The endless supply of hot water is a big benefit for larger families. There's nothing worse than being the person in the shower when the hot water runs out! And naturally it seems like forever before there's hot water again.

There may also be a federal tax credit of $300. The unit would have to have an efficiency rating of .80 minimum to qualify. All units will not qualify.

You can also check to find out if you are eligible for any state or local incentives or rebates. Go to www.dsireusa.org to find out.

This sounds great. But are there any drawbacks?

First there is your ground water temperature. If your ground water is very cold, because you live in the north, it may take a much bigger unit to do the job. The colder water restricts the flow rate.

Some water heaters need a large venting system. This may make it hard to deal with if you are installing in a preexisting home or business. They are better suited to new construction.

There have been complaints of the time it takes to get hot water to the point of use. I am not sure about your situation, but the only way that I get instant hot water is if it has been used very recently. So I have to wait anyway.

This may not be a do it yourself job. Some water heaters will require licensed installers to keep the warranty in tact.

Only you can decide if energy efficient tankless water heaters are best for you. You should contact an installer. He should have a lot of questions about your use, location, ground water temperature, and what you are paying now. He should be able to go over his calculations with you and show you how he arrived at his conclusions.

Just remember that they are trying to sell units. Be sure that you are satisfied with the company and the numbers. It would probably be better for you if they sold both types. That way you could see the difference between a newer conventional water heater and the new energy efficient tankless water heaters!