Improve Your Homes Energy Efficiency With A Tankless Water Heater

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Living in sunny Coral Springs means enjoying long showers, refreshing dips in the pool, and sparkling dishes after backyard barbecues. But all that hot water takes energy, and traditional water heaters can use a significant amount of energy to constantly keep your water warm. That’s where tankless water heaters come in, offering considerable energy efficiency and savings for your home.

Tankless vs. Traditional: Understanding the Efficiency Edge

Imagine a traditional water heater like a big pot of water simmering constantly, it keeps a whole reservoir of hot water ready, even when you don’t need it. This constant heating of water that you may or may not use leads to high energy costs that eventually impact your wallet.

To eliminate this standby heating usage, tankless water heaters were invented. This innovative system heats water instantly on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank. Think of it like a high-tech faucet, delivering piping hot water only when you turn it on. No more reheating, no more waiting, just endless hot water, and significant energy savings.

Energy Savings In Numbers

The Department of Energy estimates that tankless water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy-efficient than traditional models in households using 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. Even for higher hot water usage, where users may use 86 gallons per day, the efficiency edge remains at 8% to 14%.

Think of the impact on your utility bills, particularly during those hot summer months when showers and pool time ramp up. With a tankless water heater, you could be looking at significant cost reductions on your energy bills, putting more money back in your pocket.

More Benefits Than Only Efficiency

The benefits of tankless water heaters go beyond just energy efficiency.

Here’s why Coral Springs homeowners are making the switch:

Endless Hot Water

Possibly one of the most frustrating things that can happen while showering is running out of hot water mid-shower. Let’s face it, lukewarm showers are awful! Tankless systems provide a continuous flow which is ideal for large families or frequent hot water users.

Space Saving Design

There’s no more need to find space for that bulky water tank. Tankless units are compact and wall-mounted, helping to free up valuable space in your garage. However, you will probably need a plumber with electrical expertise as new power lines may need to be connected where you choose to install the tankless system.

Longer Lifespan

Tankless heaters typically last about 20 years compared to the 10-15 year lifespan of traditional models. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy hot water for years to come, without worrying about a water tank replacement.

Environmentally Friendly

We already know that tankless systems have lower energy consumption but they can also run on potentially cleaner fuel sources like natural gas or propane.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters

Not all homes have the same kind of access to utilities so there may be some limitations to what is available. However, some homes have options and therefore the opportunity to use other fuel sources becomes a possibility. Tankless water heaters have a few different types, so let’s have a look at them.

Electric Tankless

Probably the most common type is the electric tankless system. These units are perfect for eco-conscious homeowners or areas with limited natural gas access. The electric tankless is quieter when in operation but does have a lower flow rate.

Natural Gas Tankless

If you’re fortunate to have a natural gas line to your home then this system is for you. Tankless heaters using natural gas deliver high flow rates with faster heating. This makes them a perfect fit for larger families or frequent hot water users.

Propane Tankless

Not so popular in South Florida but in rural Northern Florida, many homes have propane tanks so you can use the propane tank that’s already on your property and you’ll benefit from similar performance to the natural gas equivalent.

Going Tankless – Important Considerations

While tankless water heaters offer impressive advantages, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and circumstances before making the switch. Let’s have a look at some of the important considerations.

Hot Water Usage

Tankless systems are ideal in homes with moderate hot water usage. If you have a large family or heavy hot water demand, consult a qualified plumber to ensure a tankless system can meet your needs. You may need to consider a specific type of tankless water heater such as a natural gas model if your usage is quite high.

Initial Cost

Tankless heaters typically have a higher upfront cost than traditional models. As with most technology these days, long-term energy savings and extended lifespan can make the initial investment worth it.

Installation

Tankless systems require professional installation by a reputable licensed plumber. Do not attempt DIY – water and electricity are very dangerous and should be treated with respect and experience. Always ensure proper installation for optimal performance and safety.