When the time comes to install a new water heater, you might get a lot of different choices. Definitely one of them will be an electrical tankless water heater. It’ll stand out with its energy-efficiency and space-saving features. So to help you make up your mind, we share this article. Find out everything about electric tankless water heater pros and cons.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heater and on-demand water heater are different names for the same appliance. Whatever you call it, the principle of work is as follows: it heats water only when it’s needed. At the same time traditional storage tanks constantly maintain a reserve of hot water. When looking at electric tankless water heater vs electric water heater you’ll see that the first are compact, wall-mounted, and can be powered by electricity or gas. Such systems don’t require a tank to store hot water. That means you can be really flexible in choosing the perfect placement for it. Also since they only heat water when needed, they can provide significant energy savings. Hence, it reduces utility costs for many households.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Tankless hot water heater systems activate the heating element only when a hot water tap is turned on, while traditional ones store heated water in the tank. In electric models, water flows through the heating element and thus becomes hot. Hence, you have endless hot water as long as the heater’s flow rate meets your household’s demands. Also no tank means no energy losses, since there is no water standby. However, these systems do have limitations, especially in homes with high simultaneous hot water usage. The question often arises: are electric tankless water heaters worth it? The answer depends on factors such as your household size, water usage habits, and budget.
Tankless Water Heater Cons
There are a lot of advantages to such systems, but you’ll notice some tankless water heater cons. Energy savings and long lasting benefits are nice and all. But it’s crucial to evaluate your home’s specific needs. While there are many benefits to using tankless hot water heater systems, there are also notable tankless water heater cons to consider:
Higher Upfront Costs
Electric tankless water heaters generally cost more to install than traditional models, including installation and potential electrical upgrades.
Flow Rate Limitations
In large households it’s common to use water for different reasons at the same time. Such systems may struggle to supply enough hot water in situations like this one.
Inconsistent Temperatures
You might live in an area with fluctuating water pressure. Also it can be that where hot water needs exceed the unit’s capacity. That’s why water temperature can vary.
Electrical Requirements
Electric models have high energy demand, so you might need to upgrade your home’s electrical system.
Tankless Water Heater vs Regular
When comparing a tankless water heater vs regular system, the main differences are these:
Energy Efficiency. Tankless systems don’t have energy losses since they heat water on demand. Systems with tanks spread the heat in outer space, which requires to heat water all of the time and consume more energy.
Space. Tankless units are much smaller so they can be wall-mounted, freeing up floor space, while traditional tanks require more room.
Cost. Storage tanks are generally less expensive upfront, while tankless models come with higher installation costs but may offer long-term savings.
Lifespan. Tankless heaters often last longer—up to 20 years—compared to storage tanks, which typically last 10–15 years.
So now you clearly see the benefits of electric tankless water heater systems. With this asset you’ll get energy efficiency, longevity, and space savings. However, a tankless water heater vs regular comparison will highlight that not all homes are suitable for tankless systems.
Tank vs Tankless Water Heater
When evaluating a tank vs tankless water heater, consider the following key points:
Water Availability. Traditional tanks store a large amount of preheated water, ready for use. Tankless systems, however, provide hot water only when needed, meaning there’s no risk of running out unless the system is undersized.
Energy Usage. Storage tanks suffer from standby heat loss, meaning energy is wasted keeping the water hot. Tankless systems avoid this issue by heating water as needed, leading to potential energy savings.
Installation Complexity. Keep in mind that you might need plumbing and electrical upgrades. Especially, if you had a tank water heater. An electric tankless water heater vs electric water heater with a tank comparison shows that tankless models often require higher electrical capacity.
To sum up: traditional water heaters will be cheaper at initial investment, but tankless hot water heater systems will bring you long-term advantages. Especially if you’re looking for energy efficiency or have a smaller household.
Are Electric Tankless Water Heaters Worth It?
So, are electric tankless water heaters worth it? To answer that question, consider your own needs. Electric tankless water heater systems are wonderful for smaller households without high demand for hot water. It’ll bring low energy bills, more free space and prolonged lifespan. When weighing electric tankless water heater pros and cons don’t forget that final savings will depend on your household size, water usage and budget. We also recommend that you call us for consultation before making a decision. Our number is (669) 666-9219 and email is support@fuseservice.com, let our specialists do their best to help you make this investment most profitable.
Conclusion
After all, we have that electric tankless water heater pros and cons reveal a system that offers substantial benefits. No tank means energy efficiency and extra free space. Also the construction of a water heater leads to long-term durability. On the other hand, there will be some challenges, particularly in terms of upfront cost and electrical requirements. While the benefits of electric tankless water heater systems can be significant for certain homes, others might find the tankless water heater cons too limiting. Check out our Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok to be up to date with the latest water heater trends.