If you’re thinking about getting a new water heater, you have a few big decisions to make. In addition to choosing the right size heater and the best company for the job, you also need to decide whether you want a traditional or a tankless heater. Find out what you should consider when you make the decision and who to call when you need tankless water heater repair.
Your Energy Bill
One of the first things you should consider when picking a water heater is your energy use. If you want to spend less money on your energy bill, you may want to consider getting a tankless water heater for your McHenry plumbing.
Tankless heaters use much less energy than traditional ones. According to research, they use at least 24% less energy than tank models. While traditional heaters constantly heat water, tankless ones only heat water as it’s needed. If you make the switch, you can enjoy lower energy bills. You also get the benefit of knowing that you’re decreasing your carbon footprint.
How They Work
Tank heaters rely on natural gas or electricity to heat up between 20 and 80 gallons of water. Regardless of your water needs, the heater is always working.
Meanwhile, a tankless heater knows when you need hot water. The system turns on the heat source when you need water, and sends you hot water immediately. When you turn off the faucet, the system stops sending you hot water.
The Total Cost
When making your decision, you should also consider the cost of each type of system. In addition to evaluating the up-front cost, you also should look at the long-term cost.
Tankless systems are approximately twice as expensive as traditional systems. But that doesn’t mean you need to write off tankless heaters. They cost more up-front but are cheaper in the long-run. Tankless water heaters last much longer than the alternative, with a lifespan of about 20 years.
Tankless heaters also cost less because of the energy savings. Over the years, you’ll spend less money to power your tankless heater. That energy savings makes a tankless heater the more economical choice.
The Installation
Regardless of the type of water heater you pick, you’ll need to have it installed by a professional. However, switching from a traditional heater to a tankless heater takes a little more work. A plumber may need to move the existing piping or install a vent.
If you already have a tankless heater, swapping the old model with a new one is simple. You could have a new tankless heater in only a short time.
Size of the Space
Where is your current water heater? If you have a tank heater, it’s probably hard to miss. The systems take up a large amount of space, keeping you from maximizing the space of your home.
If you want to regain space, you should consider switching to a tankless model. They are about the size of a suitcase and hang on your wall. Because tankless models don’t take up floor space, they’re preferred for small homes.
Your Water Needs
If your home has high demands for hot water, your best option may be a tankless heater. Tank heaters allow you to get hot water to multiple sources at once, but they eventually run out of water. You might be left taking a cold shower.
Because tankless heaters warm water as you need it, you will never run out of hot water. Everyone in your home can enjoy the benefits of having hot water.
Your Current Situation
Think about the current status of your McHenry plumbing. What type of system do you use to heat your water? If you have a tank system, how satisfied are you with your hot water situation? You might run out of water frequently, or have high energy bills. Either situation is a reason to switch to a tankless heater.
Although it’s easier to replace a tank heater with a new tank, the easier choice isn’t always the best one. Replacing your system won’t lower your energy bills or give you more hot water unless you switch to a tankless heater.
Your Budget
Before deciding to change systems, take a look at your budget. How much can you afford to pay for a new heater? Tank systems are cheaper, and the installation of a tank system will cost less than a tankless system.
That said, you may not need to pay for your tankless heater and its installation all at once. Depending on your credit and the plumbing company, you might be eligible to finance the product and installation. Don’t rule out a tankless heater until you speak with a professional.
The Advice of Your Plumber
If you trust your plumber, ask them what they think about your hot water situation. They will ask you a few questions and find out more about what you want. Then, they can help you decide which system is best for you.
Some plumbers have no experience with tankless heaters. If you’re thinking about switching to tankless, make sure you work with a plumber that has experience with tankless heater installation.
Who Will Handle Your Tankless Water Heater Repair
It’s also important to know who will handle the repair if you switch to a tankless model. While your heater will have a lifespan of around 20 years, you may experience a few problems along the way. Not all plumbers have experience repairing tankless heaters.
Do some research before you install your heater. Who can you trust with your home’s hot water? Read reviews from former customers and only work with a trustworthy company. Consider how dependable the company is. If you make the wrong choice, you could be left to live without hot water.
Here at Combat Plumbing, we know all about the benefits of tankless heaters. Our plumbers have extensive experience with tankless water heater repair. If you experience a problem with your heater, or you want a successful installation, give us a call.
