When choosing a water heating system for your home, the options can be overwhelming. At Absolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we understand the importance of making an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ll compare tankless and traditional water heaters, providing insights into crucial factors to help you make the right choice.

How much should a tankless water heater cost?

The initial cost of a water heater is a significant consideration. Traditional water heaters tend to be more budget-friendly upfront, but it’s essential to remember that tankless water heaters offer long-term savings.

The pricing of a tankless water heater is determined by its dimensions and the type of fuel it relies on. For gas-powered tankless water heaters, you can expect prices to span between $1,000 and $1,500, whereas electric variants typically cost $500 to $1,500.

While the initial investment might be higher, their energy efficiency and longer life span can offset the cost difference over time. These innovative devices are more efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters and can help you save up to 34% on your energy bills.

The average family can save around $100 per year by switching to a tankless water heater.

What size vent do you need for a tankless water heater?

One advantage of tankless water heaters is their compact size, which can save you space. Additionally, their venting requirements differ from those of traditional water heaters. Tankless water heaters typically require a larger vent to ensure proper exhaust.

When choosing between the two options, it’s crucial to consider your home’s layout and whether you have existing venting systems.

What are the different types of tankless water heaters?

Tankless water heaters come in two main types: electric and gas. Electric models are generally easier to install and have lower upfront costs, making them suitable for smaller households. Gas-powered models offer higher flow rates and are better suited for larger homes with higher hot water demands.

Traditional water heaters also come in gas and electric options, so the choice depends on your specific needs.

The different options for water heater types include:

• Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane as fuel, providing efficient and fast heating for households.
• Electric water heaters, on the other hand, use electricity to heat water, making them easy to install and suitable for smaller spaces.
• Indoor water heaters are designed to be installed inside a home or building, offering protection from the elements.
• Outdoor water heaters are built to withstand weather conditions and are typically placed outside, conserving indoor space.
• Condensing water heaters are highly efficient, capturing and using exhaust gases to heat water further.
• Non-condensing models are more straightforward, heating water directly without using exhaust gases, making them generally less complex but potentially less energy-efficient in comparison.

How energy-efficient are tankless water heaters?

When it comes to energy efficiency, tankless water heaters have a significant edge over traditional water heaters. Tankless systems only heat water when needed, eliminating standby heat loss that occurs in traditional tank-style water heaters.

This results in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills over time.

How many GPMs do I need for a tankless water heater?

GPM, or gallons per minute, is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a water heater. Tankless water heaters are rated based on their GPM capacity, indicating how much hot water they can provide at a given flow rate.

To determine the right GPM for your household, consider the number of appliances and fixtures using hot water simultaneously.

How do I know what size tankless water heater I need?

Selecting the appropriate size tankless water heater depends on your household’s hot water demand. Factors such as the number of family members, bathrooms, and appliances requiring hot water play a role in determining the size.

A professional plumber, such as those at Absolute, can help you select the correct size for your needs.

How much does it cost to maintain a tankless water heater?

Maintenance is an essential aspect of any home appliance. Tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance compared to traditional water heaters.

Flushing the system periodically to prevent mineral buildup is recommended, but the overall maintenance costs are typically lower than those for traditional water heaters.

Popular Brands

When considering tankless water heaters, several reputable brands stand out. Rinnai, Rheem, and EcoSmart are known for their quality and innovation in the water heating industry. These brands offer a range of options to suit different household sizes and preferences.

How long are tankless water heater warranties?

Warranty coverage is a vital aspect of any appliance investment. Tankless water heater warranties can vary, with coverage typically ranging from five to 15 years. Reviewing the manufacturer’s warranty terms and considering extended warranty options is essential.

At what temperature should you set your tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters allow you to set the desired water temperature digitally. However, higher temperatures can lead to scalding and increased energy use. It’s recommended to set the temperature between 120°F and 140°F to balance safety and efficiency.

Choose Absolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air for Water Heater Services

At AAbsolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we pride ourselves on providing expert advice and top-notch services for all your water heater needs. Whether you’re leaning toward a tankless water heater or a traditional one, our experienced technicians can guide you through the selection process, installation, and maintenance.

We understand that each home is unique, and we’re committed to finding the solution that aligns with your needs and budget.

Schedule water heater services with Absolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air by calling 720-669-4188 today.