A gas tankless water heater, also known as an instantaneous water heater, provides hot water only as it’s needed. Fortunately, they don’t generate the standby energy losses common with storage water heaters, which can translate to savings.
In today’s blog, we’ll discuss gas tankless water heaters in-depth so that you can decide if they’re right for you.
Gas Tankless Water Heater Basics
Tankless water heaters are devices that professionals install in your water line to replace old water heater tanks. Decades ago, homeowners used to heat all their water at once, even if they didn’t need warm water; however, these modern tankless water heaters only heat up water when you need it. When you invest in one of these water heaters, you’ll have access to an unlimited supply of hot water because your tank will never empty.
An expert plumber can install a tankless water heater in place of your old, hot water one. Once you have one of these water heaters, you’ll notice the benefits almost immediately. For instance, when you turn on something that requires hot water, such as your shower, the heating element in your water heater will activate.
What Should I Keep in Mind?
If you’re a DIY guru, it’s best to leave gas tankless water heater installation to the pros. An experienced plumber can help you decide if your house is a good candidate for these water heaters by taking a look at the following factors:
Power output:
Tankless water heaters are either modulated or full-on and full-off. Full-on and full-off models don’t have a way for you to control power output levels; this means that no matter what the temperature of the incoming water is, your burner will always be 100% turned on when you use hot water.
Conversely, modulated tankless water heaters can base the amount of heat that they generate based on how much water pours in. A professionally installed, calibrated, and modulated tankless water heater will ensure the same temperature water regardless of the amount of water that’s going into the warm water heater.
Flow rate:
Flow rate is a measure of how much warm water your tankless water heater can provide at any moment. Your total flow rate consists of every appliance that you’ll be operating at the same time added together. For instance, if you anticipate running your dishwasher at the exact same time as you’re showering, then you’ll need a water heater that’s capable of providing sufficient hot water to both areas. Fortunately, gas tankless water heaters can provide over eight gallons of hot water per minute.
Energy Factor:
This is another factor that contributes to the efficiency rating of your tankless water heater. After all, the more efficient your water heater is, the less energy and fuel it takes to heat up your water. This factor is determined by standby and cycling losses, as well as recovery efficiency.
Quick Quality Plumbing Can Help
If you’re interested in installing a gas tankless water heater or need to repair a broken one, you can count on Quick Quality Plumbing. Our experts specialize in tankless water heater selection, assistance, and installation.
We serve Utah County and offer 24/7 service. Contact us today.
