A Green Alternative: The Tankless Water Heater

The Rundown on Tankless Water Heaters

A tankless water heater is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to conventional tank-style water heaters. Tankless water heaters are typically mounted on the wall and heat water only when needed. They also typically last longer than storage tank water heaters and can save homeowners money in water heating costs. This blog will discuss how tankless water heaters work, their benefits, and signs to replace an old water heater. 

Out With the Old

Traditional storage water heaters are designed to last a long time. On average, water heaters have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years, but not all water heaters make it to the point of retirement. Depending on water quality, installation, maintenance frequency, and unit design, some water heaters break down earlier than expected. Here are some signs to watch out for indicating the need to replace an old water heater:

• Inconsistent heating: Fluctuating water temperatures, lukewarm water, or no hot water at all are signs of a water heater no longer running as it should and suggests it may be time to get a new water heater. 

• Presence of corrosion: Whether the rust and corrosion are found on the tank itself or mixed in with the water coming out of the tap, its presence is never a good sign and may require a water heater replacement.

• Strange sounds: When it makes sounds it’s not supposed to make, it indicates something is wrong. Typically the sounds are caused by corrosive sediment buildup in the tank from neglected maintenance. 

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

When a water heater needs replacement, homeowners may consider switching to a tankless hot water heater. As its name implies, this water heater does away with the storage tank and heats water as it flows from the source through a heat exchanger and out of the faucet or fixture. This simple, heat-as-you-go system is a departure from traditional tank water heaters.

Most water heaters store water in a large tank that is heated and kept at a specific temperature. This means the tank's heating element must constantly turn on and off to keep a large volume of water hot. Because tankless systems only heat water when needed, tankless water heaters have many benefits.

Tankless Water Heater Benefits

One benefit of tankless systems is that they don’t take up a lot of space because they don’t require a large tank. This is a win for homeowners who don’t have much square footage and need space-saving solutions. Tankless water heaters are also much more energy efficient than their older counterparts. Because they heat water on demand, they only use power to heat water while water flows through the system. The minute water isn’t being used anymore, the system powers down and doesn’t waste unnecessary energy. This is a big advantage for homeowners looking to save on utility bills. 

Finally, tankless water heaters also have a longer lifespan than traditional storage-type water heaters. With a life expectancy of 20 years, tankless water heaters last around 10 years more than storage water heaters, another reason to switch to a tankless system when the opportunity presents itself.

About JD Precision Plumbing Services

JD Precision Plumbing Services is a family-owned and operated company serving Conroe, TX, and the surrounding communities since 2010. They provide emergency service, honest pricing, and the latest technology. Call them today for tankless water heater installation and repair in Conroe, TX.

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