Since we all have to drink water and bathe in it, you might wonder how to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to your water system. The answer: a tankless water heater.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than their traditional counterparts, but they offer a number of advantages that can save you money and make your life easier.
Tankless water heaters are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who want to save money on their utility bills. The number of homes with tankless water heaters has increased by over 40% since 2007, and the trend doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon.
The reason for this is simple: tankless water heaters are more efficient than traditional water heaters. There are several reasons why homeowners in Santa Fe and the surrounding area prefer Tankless water heaters.
But are you curious about tankless water heaters?
If so, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, Santa Fe tankless water heater experts will give you an overview of what a tankless water heater is, how it works, and the pros and cons of choosing one over traditional storage units.
What is a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater is a necessary appliance that heats water as needed rather than storing it for use at a later time. This can be a very efficient way to heat water because you don’t have to wait for hot water to be produced after it has been heated.
The tankless model can be installed anywhere in your home or office. It comes with an electric pump that moves the heated water through your pipes, so there’s always hot water available when you need it most!
How does a tankless water heater work?
A tankless water heater uses heat to heat water on demand. Tankless water heaters are most commonly used in homes with multiple bathrooms and shower rooms, where a larger-capacity tank system would be impractical. It works by heating water directly as it passes through the unit without the need for a storage tank. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how a gas or electric tankless water heater operates:
Water Inlet
When a water tap is turned on, cold water from the main water supply flows through the tankless water heater via an inlet pipe.
Flow Sensor
Inside the tankless unit, a flow sensor detects the water flow rate. This sensor determines when hot water is needed and activates the heating process.
Heating Element
The tankless water heater contains a powerful heating element, which can be either a gas burner or an electric coil. When the flow sensor detects the water flow, it signals the heating element to start heating the water.
Heat Exchange
As cold water flows over the heating element, it is rapidly heated. The heat exchange process occurs instantaneously, and the water reaches the desired temperature almost immediately.
Hot Water Output
The now heated water exits the tankless water heater through the outlet pipe, providing hot water to the faucet or appliance where it was demanded.
Continuous Supply
The tankless water heater can provide a continuous hot water supply as long as the demand does not exceed its heating capacity. This means it will keep providing hot water as long as the hot water taps or appliances are in use.
Shut Off
Once you turn off the hot water tap or appliance, the flow sensor detects the decrease in water flow and shuts off the heating element. This helps conserve energy since the heater only operates when hot water is required.
Common Difference between Tankless and Tank Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters have become more popular than conventional tank-type water heaters. However, a lot of people are still not sure what the differences between these two types of water heaters are.
Both types of water heaters are used to provide hot water for your home. However, there are some differences in how they operate and the kind of hot water they provide.
So, here is a comparison table highlighting the common differences between tankless and tank water heaters:
| Feature | Tankless Water Heater | Tank Water Heater |
| Water Storage | No storage tank; heats water on demand | Stores and preheats water in a tank |
| Energy Efficiency | More energy-efficient; no standby heat loss | Less energy-efficient; standby heat loss occurs |
| Hot Water Supply | Continuous supply; no running out of hot water | Limited supply; can run out of hot water |
| Space Requirement | Compact and space-saving | Requires floor space for the tank |
| Installation | It may require specific installation considerations. | Easier and straightforward installation |
| Lifespan | Longer lifespan | Shorter lifespan compared to tankless |
| Initial Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower upfront cost but may have higher operating costs |
| Maintenance | Regular maintenance is recommended | Less frequent maintenance is needed |
| Temperature Control | Precise temperature control | Temperature control may vary based on the tank size |
| Environmental Impact | Lower greenhouse gas emissions | Higher greenhouse gas emissions |
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
When you’re looking to replace old, outdated appliances in your home, you might be wondering what kind of water heater will work best for your family. If you’re considering a tankless water heater, you might be confused about “what are the benefits of a tankless water heater?”.
The good news is that we’ve done the hard work for you.
Here are 7 pros of tankless water heaters and how they can help improve your life!
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is the number one benefit of tankless water heaters. Tankless heaters are up to 95% efficient, compared to 50% efficiency for tank-type heaters. This means tankless water heaters use less energy than their counterparts, which translates into cost savings for you.
Energy Savings
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average household can save around $100 or more annually on energy bills by switching to a tankless water heater. With the benefits of tankless electric water heaters, it’s estimated that homeowners can save up to 40% on their annual heating bills compared to traditional storage-tank systems. This is because they only use as much energy as they need at any given moment.
Lifespan
Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years longer than traditional tank-based systems, which last for 5-10 years. This is because they don’t store hot water, so there’s no sediment buildup or bacteria growth inside the system. The lifespan of the tankless unit is also determined by how many hours per day it’s used, so if you use yours for fewer than eight hours per day, you’ll likely get even more out of it.
Endless Hot Water
Tankless units provide continuous hot water instead of requiring you to wait for your tank to fill up before you can shower or do laundry again—which is great if you’re trying to conserve energy while keeping your family warm and cozy!
Environmental Impact
Tankless water heaters have a lower environmental impact due to their energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a typical household that switches to a tankless water heater can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 3.3 to 3.8 metric tons annually.
Space-Saving
The average water heater is about the size of a large refrigerator, which means it takes up a lot of space in your home. Tankless water heaters don’t require a tank, so they take up much less space than traditional water heaters, which means you can install them anywhere you want!
Reduced Water Waste
Tankless water heaters help reduce waste by using only the amount of energy that you need. They don’t heat up unused water, so you don’t throw out any extra energy or money on wasted resources. This also means there’s less chance of bacteria growth within the unit!
Cons of a Tankless Water Heater
While tankless water heaters offer several benefits, they also come with some drawbacks that may not make them the best choice for every household. Here are some of the cons of a tankless water heater:
Higher initial cost
The biggest downside to a tankless water heater is the higher initial cost. In most cases, a tankless water heater will cost about $1,000 more than a standard tank-type heater. The initial investment can be offset by lower monthly utility bills, however. Tankless heaters are more efficient than traditional models, so they use less energy and save you money on your monthly bill.
Limited flow rate
Tankless water heaters also have a limited flow rate compared to traditional models. A typical tankless unit can only provide enough hot water for one or two people at a time before the heater runs out of gas (which is only about 30 seconds). If you live in a family household or have multiple bathrooms, you may want to consider installing two or more tankless units instead of one large one.
Performance affected by climate
In extreme climates, a tankless heater may not be able to heat the water as effectively as a traditional water heater. For example, in extremely cold climates where you need to run your hot water heater for long periods of time, it is unlikely that a tankless heater will last as long as one that uses a tank.
Complex installation
In order to install a tankless water heater, you may need to hire a tankless water heater professional in Santa Fe. The installation process can be complicated and difficult for some homeowners, so if you’re uncomfortable with plumbing, this might not be the best option.
Potential inconsistent temperature
The temperature of the water can be inconsistent, even when the thermostat is set at a specific temperature. This is because the heat source is not constant and can fluctuate.
Sensitivity to hard water
Tankless heaters tend to be more susceptible to scale buildup than traditional tank heaters. This means that it will require more maintenance and more frequent cleaning.
Quick Overview Of Pros And Cons Of Tankless Water Heater
Below is a quick overview of tankless water heater pros and cons:
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Energy Efficiency | No standby heat loss; more energy-efficient | Higher upfront cost |
| Continuous Hot Water | Provides a continuous supply of hot water | Limited flow rate |
| Space-Saving | Compact and saves floor space | It may require upgrades for gas or electric supply lines |
| Longevity | Longer lifespan than tank water heaters | It may need periodic descaling/maintenance |
| Temperature Control | Precise temperature control | May not handle simultaneous high demand |
| Environmentally Friendly | Lower greenhouse gas emissions | It may require a higher gas supply capacity |
| Operating Cost | Lower operating costs in the long run | Higher installation cost |
| No Water Storage | Eliminates the risk of tank leaks | It may not be suitable for large households |
Installation Of Tankless Water Heater Cost
The cost of installing a tankless water heater in Santa Fe can differ based on several factors, including the kind of unit, the complexity of the installation, and the region where you live. Here are some of the factors that can influence the installation cost:
Unit Cost
The cost of the tankless water heater itself will be a significant portion of the total installation cost. Tankless water heaters come in various sizes and models, and their prices can range from a couple hundred to thousand dollars, depending on the brand and features.
Installation Type
The installation type can affect the cost. If you are replacing an existing tankless water heater, the installation might be more straightforward and less expensive than installing a unit for the first time, which might require additional work and modifications.
Fuel Type
Tankless water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. The installation cost can vary depending on the fuel type, as gas units may require additional gas lines or venting.
Gas Line or Electrical Upgrades
If you’re switching from a traditional electric water heater to a gas tankless unit, you might need to install a new gas line or make electrical upgrades, which can add to the installation cost.
Venting Requirements
Gas-powered tankless water heaters require proper venting to remove combustion byproducts. Venting can add to the installation cost, especially if the venting system needs modification.
Location and Accessibility
The location of the installation and the ease of access to the water heater can affect the labor cost. If it’s challenging to access the installation area, it might require more labor and increase the overall cost.
Permits and Local Codes
Some regions may require permits for installing tankless water heaters, and they may have specific codes and regulations that need to be followed. Obtaining permits and complying with local codes can add to the cost.
As an estimate, the total cost of installing a tankless water heater, including the unit and installation labor, can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. Getting quotes from licensed tankless water heater professionals in Santa Fe is crucial to get a more accurate estimate for your specific installation.
Tankless Hot Water Heater Maintenance And Care
A tankless water heater is an energy-efficient, space-saving way to provide hot water for your home. A good tankless water heater can provide you with endless hot water, but there are some things you should be aware of when it comes to their maintenance and care.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
The most common issues with tankless water heaters are blocked nozzles and clogged pipes. To prevent these problems from happening, you’ll want to keep your tankless water heater clean and properly maintained. You should also check the temperature of your hot water at regular intervals and make sure that it’s not too high or too low. If it is, call a trained tankless water heater professional immediately!
Tankless Water Heater Care
There are several different types of tankless water heaters on the market today, but all of them require regular cleaning for optimal performance. The best way to do this is by using a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the inside surfaces of the unit. You should also check for any rusting or corrosion on these surfaces. This could indicate potential problems with your tankless heater’s performance over time.
Top Brands Of Tankless Water Heaters Santa Fe
There are a lot of water heaters on the market, but not all of them are created equal. When you’re looking for a new tankless water heater, you want to be sure you’re getting one that will last and provide you with all the features you need.
The problem is there are so many different brands out there that it can be hard to know where to start. And if you don’t know what to look for in a brand, how can you know whether or not they’re right for your home?
Here are some top brands known for producing quality Santa Fe tankless water heaters:
Rheem
Rheem is a well-established brand known for its wide range of water heating products, including tankless water heaters. They offer both gas and electric tankless models.
Rinnai
Rinnai is a popular brand known for its high-quality tankless water heaters. They offer a diverse selection of models that cater to various hot water demands.
Navien
Navien is recognized for its energy-efficient and advanced tankless water heaters. They produce both gas and electric models designed for residential and commercial use.
Noritz
Noritz manufactures tankless water heaters known for their reliability and performance. They offer a range of models suitable for different applications.
Ecosmart
Ecosmart specializes in electric tankless water heaters that are energy-efficient and compact. They are suitable for smaller households or point-of-use applications.
Takagi
Takagi produces both gas and electric tankless water heaters known for their durability and efficiency. They offer various models to meet different hot water needs.
FAQs
What size tankless water heater do I need?
The answer to this question depends on the size of your home, but it’s also important to get the benefits of tankless water heater. If you have a small family and don’t use much hot water, you might not need a large tankless water heater.
How do I install a tankless water heater?
How much does a tankless heater cost?
What is the difference between a tankless and a traditional water heater?
Are tankless water heaters worth the investment?
Ready to Install A Tankless Water Heater? Call James Plumbing & Heating Today!
When it comes to your home, you want to know that the people working on it are licensed, insured, and have been trained in the latest and best practices.
If your home or business needs a new tankless water heater, you’re in the right place!
James Plumbing & Heating has been providing superior Tankless Water Heater Installation and Services in Santa Fe for over 30 years. We’re proud of our reputation for quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction—and we’d love to help you with any plumbing or heating issues you might have!
We offer the best tankless water heater services in Santa Fe, NM, including:
– Water heater installation and repair
– Tankless water heater installation
– Tankless water heater repair
– Tankless hot water heater replacement
– Tankless hot water heater maintenance
– Hot water heater troubleshooting
Our technicians are EPA certified and fully trained in all aspects of plumbing. We take pride in our work and love helping people solve their problems with their homes. You can count on us for:
– Quality workmanship
– Affordable prices
– Experienced technicians
– Emergency Service
Whether you need an emergency plumbing repair or long-term maintenance, we have the skills, experience, and equipment needed to get the job done right the first time.
The best thing? We offer emergency service so that if you have an issue with your home’s plumbing system at any time of day or night, we can be there within minutes to fix it for you!
Call us at 505-473-7148 if you want to learn more about tankless water heater installation for your home!