Fast read
A tankless hot water system only provides water when needed and does not store water in a tank, making it more energy-efficient and space-saving.
It heats water as soon as the hot water tap is turned on using a heat exchanger and can provide an infinite supply of hot water as long as water usage is below the maximum permissible flow rate.
Tankless systems are more expensive to install and require maintenance but are up to 22% more efficient than traditional systems, resulting in greater energy savings.
In regards to limitations, there is a high initial cost. However, it is worth noting that the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks, making it an intelligent investment for most households.
Why should I get a tankless hot water system?
Any type of hot water system can be a great investment for your home hot water as it offers many long-term benefits. However, there are many types of hot water systems – one of which is a tankless hot water system.
The tank is probably one of the first things people associate with a hot water system. This article will explain what a tankless hot water system is and whether or not you should get one for yourself.
What is a tankless hot water system?
Tankless hot water systems only provide water when needed. This means this type of system does not have water on standby in a tank. This allows for increased savings as your system will not produce water that you do not end up using.
How do tankless hot water systems work?
Tankless water systems heat water as soon as you turn the hot water tap on. This is achieved by cold water travelling through a heat exchanger within the system where an electric element or natural gas burner heats the water. Therefore, a tankless system does not rely on the water usually stored in the tank like most traditional systems.
Why should you get a tankless hot water system?
Benefit #1
The first benefit is that you will have even lower energy bills. While traditional hot water systems help you save money. Tankless hot water systems will save you even more.
The removal of a tank storing hot water allows for a further reduction in the energy source required for the system. When you have the tank, energy is used to keep the temperature of the water at the right level. This is simply not needed with a tankless system as the water does not need to be preheated before use. In fact, it has been found that tankless units are up to 22% more efficient than traditional systems.
Benefit #2
Imagine a scenario where you and your family have come back from the beach and everyone wants to have a quick shower. You are the last one to have a shower, then you hop in and only have hot water for a few seconds before you’re stuck having a cold shower.
You will never be in that situation if you have a tankless water heater. Each tankless water heater has a maximum flow rate. This means it can only heat a particular volume of water at one time.
Most tankless heaters won’t be able to keep up with a large number of showers going at the same time. Nevertheless, Tankless water heaters, provide an infinite supply of hot water as long as your water usage is below the maximum permissible flow rate at any one time.
Because tankless water heaters heat the water from an external device on request. You could shower for an hour and the water would still be hot, as long as that doesn’t pass the maximum permissible flow rate. Of course, a one-hour shower is not recommended, but it’s just an example.
Benefit #3
Tankless water heaters are a great option if you don’t have a lot of room in your home. When compared to tank-style water heaters, they are usually mounted to the wall and occupy significantly less physical space. The average 150 – 200 litre tank-style water heater is 1.5 – 2 metres tall. The average rectangle tankless unit is 0.5 – 1 metre tall, significantly smaller.
Why shouldn’t you get a tankless hot water system?
Drawback #1
The high initial cost of the equipment and implementation is by far the main disadvantage of tankless water heaters. Because of higher installation expenses, tankless water heaters are more pricey. Special cabling and/or a new outflow pipe are frequently required to accommodate the higher load.
Tank-style heaters are also less expensive to install because they have been around more and are more popular. This means more professionals have the capability to install them. Making it a less niche task to do than installing tankless systems.
Drawback #2
One of the less well-known disadvantages of tankless water heating systems is their inability to maintain a mild water temperature. Because tankless heating systems require a minimum volume of water flow before turning on. A space exists between entirely cold water and the coolest warm water that a cold and hot water combination can produce.
It isn’t a huge disadvantage that will be the decision-making reason on whether you get this sort of system. Especially since there are exceedingly few situations where you won’t be capable of reaching the temperature control you require, but it’s worth noting if you love cool showers.
Drawback #3
Another disadvantage is that tankless systems require maintenance. With traditional systems, there are extremely limited maintenance requirements to look after the tank. This is not the same for tankless systems. Because of the complexity of the system, it is recommended that you hire professionals to come maintain the tankless system at least every three months.
While there are some disadvantages, the bottom line is tankless hot water systems offer a number of advantages. Especially in comparison to tank-style hot water systems, however, your choice of system should be based on your specific circumstances and if these advantages truly benefit you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tankless hot water systems provide significant advantages over traditional tank-style systems. They offer increased energy efficiency, continuous hot water supply, and space-saving benefits, making them a great choice for modern households. However, these benefits come with higher upfront costs, potential maintenance requirements, and challenges in maintaining mild water temperatures.
When deciding whether to invest in a tankless hot water system, consider your budget, space availability, and specific hot water needs. If you prioritize long-term savings, endless hot water, and space efficiency, a tankless system may be the ideal solution for your home. However, if initial cost and maintenance are major concerns, traditional tank-style heaters might be more suitable. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your unique circumstances and priorities.
