Hot water is the lifeline that transforms our daily experiences. When you plan on having your steamy shower in the morning or want to start washing dishes after a family dinner, you expect hot water to make your life comfortable, clean, and convenient. But with rising energy costs and a focus on efficiency, how we heat water is changing.
Today’s water heating technology has revolutionized how we think about hot water. Gone are the days of massive, space-consuming tank water heaters that continuously heat and reheat water. Welcome to the era of tankless water heaters — compact, efficient machines that heat water precisely when you need it.
Choosing the right system can save you energy, improve comfort, and fit your family’s specific needs. Learn five important factors to consider when buying a tankless water heater for your home.
1. Choosing the Right Fuel Source for Your Tankless Water Heater
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when choosing a tankless water heater is the fuel source. Tankless water heaters primarily come in two types: electric tankless water heaters and gas tankless water heaters. Natural gas and electric tankless water heaters each bring unique advantages to your home — ones that you shouldn’t dismiss the importance of.
Gas tankless water heaters typically provide higher flow rates and can simultaneously handle larger households with multiple hot water demands. They’re powerful performers that can quickly heat water for showers, dishwashers, and laundry machines without breaking a sweat. The incoming water temperature matters significantly here, as gas systems can rapidly increase temperature rise even in colder climates.
Electric tankless water heaters shine in different scenarios. They’re typically smaller, easier to install, and work beautifully in homes without gas lines. These units excel in smaller households or as point-of-use solutions. They’re quieter, have lower upfront costs, and can be ideal for supplementing existing hot water systems.
When thinking about which direction you want to go, consider your typical household usage, available energy sources, and long-term efficiency goals.
2. Brand Reputation: Selecting Trusted Manufacturers of Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Not all tankless water heaters are created equal. The brand you choose can dramatically impact your system’s performance, longevity, and reliability. Look for manufacturers with proven track records in producing high-quality heat exchangers and robust tankless systems.
Many of these companies invest heavily in research and development, continuously improving their heat water technologies. They offer great warranties, reliable customer support, and innovative features that set them apart from generic manufacturers.
Also, look at customer reviews and the company’s reputation for customer service. A unit from a reputable brand might save you thousands in potential repairs or replacements down the line.
3. Flow Rate and Capacity
Flow rate determines how much hot water your system can produce at any given moment. It’s measured in gallons per minute (GPM) and directly impacts your household’s comfort and convenience.
Different activities require different flow rates. A shower typically needs 2-3 GPM, while running a dishwasher might require 1-2 GPM. Large families or homes with simultaneous hot water needs should consider higher-capacity units or even multiple tankless systems. Calculate your peak hot water demand by adding up the flow rates of appliances and fixtures you might use simultaneously. This helps you choose a tankless water heater that won’t leave you with unexpected cold showers or interrupted water flow.
4. Installation Considerations: Indoor vs. Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters
The location of your new tankless water heater can impact its performance and your home’s overall efficiency. Indoor and outdoor units each come with distinct advantages and challenges.
Indoor tankless water heaters provide protection from external elements and are often easier to maintain. They require proper ventilation and might need professional installation to meet local building codes. These units work exceptionally well in climate-controlled environments and can be tucked away in utility rooms or closets.
Outdoor tankless water heaters offer different benefits. They free up interior space, reduce installation complexity, and can be ideal in milder climates. However, they require weatherproofing and might need additional protection in regions with extreme temperatures.
5. Maintenance and Long-Term Performance of Your Tankless Unit
A new tankless water heater is a significant investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. Maintaining it is key to protecting that investment and keeping it running smoothly.
Descaling prevents mineral buildup that can reduce your system’s efficiency. This is particularly important in areas like Phoenix that may, unfortunately, be filled with hard water. Annual inspections can help identify potential issues before they become costly problems. Most manufacturers recommend professional servicing every 12 to 24 months to maintain warranty coverage.
Pay attention to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. Some brands offer maintenance kits and clear guidelines for homeowners. Keep detailed records of all service and maintenance to support potential warranty claims and track your system’s performance over time.
Why Rite Way of Phoenix Is Your Tankless Water Heater Partner
Tankless water heaters have changed the way we heat water, offering endless hot water, energy efficiency, and a compact design compared to traditional tank water heaters. No matter what model you choose, you’ll enjoy plenty of savings on energy bills and a longer-lasting system.
We’re committed to guiding you through every step of your tankless water heater journey. Rite Way of Phoenix can provide you with brand new tankless heaters for your water, helping you choose the perfect system and providing a tankless water heater installation that only the pros can do. We are ready to help you navigate the entire ownership process by providing additional services like tankless water heater repairs!
Contact us today to learn how tankless water heaters compare to alternatives and how they can help residents of Phoenix.
