If you’re considering making the switch to a Redwood City tankless water heating system, let our guide help! Maybe you’re not sure what the differences are between tankless and storage-type systems, or you’re not sure if tankless is the best fit for your home. This quick guide provides all the basics you need before undertaking your Redwood City tankless water heating project.
Tankless Versus Storage
Traditional storage water heaters are big and bulky, typically taking up a large space in a garage or closet somewhere in your home. These units store anywhere from 20 to 80 gallons of hot water at all times. When the hot water tap is turned on, hot water from the top of the tank flows through the pipes and cold water enters from the bottom of the tank and is heated to keep the tank full. Obviously, introducing cold water into the reservoir of hot water brings down the overall temperature, resulting in a lack of hot water after a certain period of time.
Tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type water heaters, are much smaller units that are attached to cold water pipes and directly heat cold water when a hot water tap is turned on. As such, it continuously heats water as long as hot water is in demand. Tankless water heaters won’t run out of hot water like a storage water heater does; however, it may take longer for the water to heat to your desired temperature since it is heating the water on the spot.
Tankless Energy Options: Gas-Fired or Electric
Energy savings is a major advantage of tankless water heating systems. Depending on your hot water needs, you can choose between installing a gas-fired or electric tankless water heating unit. Both have their own set of benefits.
Gas-fired tankless water heating units are ideal for homeowners looking for one unit to provide hot water to the entire house. Although these units are larger than an electric tankless water heater, it is still significantly smaller than a traditional storage water heater. Between the two options, a gas-fired unit is cheaper to run due to natural gas being cheaper than electricity. It also has a longer lifespan than an electric unit—up to 20 years—which is great for a home looking for long-term savings.
Electric tankless water heaters are best suited for homeowners looking to upgrade water heater needs in a single room. These units are very small in size and quiet; however, they are more expensive than gas-fired units. If you want to go electric house-wide, you’ll need to install multiple units, one in each room, which could be costly.
Higher Initial Costs, Long-Term Advantages
If you’re making the switch from storage to tankless water heater, you’re going to have to shell out more than if you were just replacing your storage water heater system. Tankless systems, both gas-fired and electric, cost more and may require additional installation costs. For example, if you’re choosing to install a gas-fired tankless water heater unit, you may be required to spend on new tubing for venting.
In the long run, though, tankless water heaters have more advantages. The longer lifespan of a tankless system means long periods without the need for replacement. Also, the lower operating costs and energy savings over time should compensate for higher initial investment.
Talk to Our Professional Plumbers Today
Taking on a project of this size requires professional knowledge and skills. Performance Plumbing is here to help! If you still have questions about your Redwood City tankless water heating project, contact our licensed professionals at Performance Plumbing! Call or email us today to set up an appointment and get a free estimate.