For anyone evaluating different options for San Jose tankless water heater solutions, getting familiar with the many aspects of San Jose tankless water heater installations can be challenging. Tankless water heaters, also called demand-type water heaters, are an alternative to storage water heaters. Whereas storage water heaters keep 40 to 50 gallons of water continuously heated in a tank, tankless water heaters are safer, more compact and only heat water as needed. If you’re considering the switch to a tankless water heater in San Jose, keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons, and how to choose the right tankless water heater for your needs.
How a Tankless Water Heater Works
As the name suggests, a tankless water heater works without heating a storage tank full of water. Instead, cold pipes are connected directly to the heating unit where it gets heated instantly and comes out hot. This type of heater provides a constant flow of hot water — no more waiting for a 40-gallon storage tank to heat up. However, this continuous flow of water does affect the water’s flow rate.
Electric or Gas-Fired Tankless Water Heaters
There are two types of tankless water heaters: electric and gas-fired. Gas-fired tankless water heaters have a higher flow rate compared to an electric one; however, it is not as energy efficient as its electric counterpart. This is because the pilot light from a gas-fired heater is constantly burning, resulting in higher energy use.
In terms of cost, tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost than traditional storage water heaters; however, most tankless water heaters have a much longer life expectancy. A traditional storage water heater has a life span of 8 to 12 years, but gas-fired tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years. Note that electric units have a shorter life span, closer to that of a traditional storage system, but they are much smaller, more quiet and the most energy efficient.
Tankless Water Heaters are More Energy Efficient
One of the biggest arguments in favor of tankless water heaters is that they are more energy efficient. You could get up to 50% energy savings with a tankless heating system. Since it only heats water as needed, it saves a lot of energy compared to a storage tank heater that is constantly working to keep water at a certain temperature. Between gas-fired and electric tankless systems, electric systems are the most energy efficient.
Installing Your Tankless Water Heater
We suggest leaving the installation of a new tankless water heater to the pros. Installing a new gas-fired tankless water heater involves making gas, vent and leak-free water connections. For an electric tankless water heater, it may be necessary to upgrade the wiring and circuit-breaker panel. To ensure these things are done properly and safely, be sure to hire qualified plumbing professionals.
Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth It?
If you’re still not sure if a tankless water heater in San Jose is the best solution for you, contact a certified professional at Performance Plumbing for a consultation. Let us help you find the best tankless water heater for your needs!