The Ultimate Tankless Water Heater Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

A tankless water heater is a water heater that heats water on demand, without the need for a storage tank. This can be a more efficient and cost-effective way to heat water, as it only heats the water that you need, when you need it.

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a number of advantages over traditional storage tank water heaters. Some of the benefits of tankless water heaters include:

• Endless hot water: Tankless water heaters can provide an endless supply of hot water, as they heat water on demand. This means that you will never run out of hot water, even if you have multiple people using hot water at the same time.
• Energy efficiency: Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they only heat the water that you need, when you need it. This can save you money on your energy bills.
• Space saving: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional storage tank water heaters. This can free up valuable space in your home.
• Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they do not have a storage tank that can rust or corrode.

If you are considering replacing your old water heater, a tankless water heater is a great option to consider. Tankless water heaters offer a number of advantages over traditional storage tank water heaters, including endless hot water, energy efficiency, space saving, and a longer lifespan.

1. Flow rate

The flow rate of a tankless water heater is an important consideration when choosing a model. The flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and it determines how much hot water the water heater can deliver at a given time. The flow rate you need will depend on the number of people in your household and the number of fixtures you have that use hot water. For example, a household with four people and two bathrooms will need a higher flow rate than a household with two people and one bathroom.

If you choose a tankless water heater with a flow rate that is too low, you may not have enough hot water to meet your needs. This can be a particular problem during peak usage times, such as when everyone in the household is getting ready for work or school in the morning. On the other hand, if you choose a tankless water heater with a flow rate that is too high, you may be paying for more hot water than you need. This can also lead to higher energy bills.

To determine the right flow rate for your needs, consider the following factors:

• The number of people in your household
• The number of bathrooms in your home
• The number of fixtures in your home that use hot water (e.g., sinks, showers, dishwashers, washing machines)
• The peak usage times in your household

Once you have considered these factors, you can use the following table to estimate the flow rate you need:

By following these steps, you can choose the right flow rate for your tankless water heater and ensure that you have enough hot water to meet your needs.

2. Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important consideration when choosing a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters because they only heat the water that you need, when you need it. This can save you money on your energy bills.

• How tankless water heaters save energy: Tankless water heaters save energy by only heating the water that you need, when you need it. This is in contrast to traditional storage tank water heaters, which keep a tank of hot water heated at all times, even when you are not using it.
• Energy Factor (EF): The Energy Factor (EF) is a measure of the energy efficiency of a tankless water heater. The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater.
• Benefits of choosing an energy-efficient tankless water heater: Choosing an energy-efficient tankless water heater can save you money on your energy bills. It can also help to reduce your carbon footprint.

When choosing a tankless water heater, it is important to consider the Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater. This can save you money on your energy bills and help to reduce your carbon footprint.

3. Size

When considering how to buy a tankless water heater, the size of the unit is an important factor to consider. Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional storage tank water heaters, which can be a major advantage if you have a small home or limited space.

• Space savings: Tankless water heaters can be mounted on a wall, which frees up valuable floor space. This can be a major advantage in small homes or apartments where space is at a premium.
• Installation flexibility: The compact size of tankless water heaters makes them easier to install in tight spaces. This can be an advantage in older homes or homes with complex plumbing systems.
• Aesthetic appeal: Tankless water heaters are often more aesthetically pleasing than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they are smaller and can be mounted out of sight.

If you are considering buying a tankless water heater, be sure to consider the size of the unit. Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional storage tank water heaters, which can be a major advantage if you have a small home or limited space.

4. Cost

When considering how to buy a tankless water heater, it is important to consider the cost. Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase than traditional storage tank water heaters. However, they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.

• Higher upfront cost: Tankless water heaters cost more to purchase than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they are more complex to manufacture and require specialized materials.
• Lower operating cost: Tankless water heaters cost less to operate than traditional storage tank water heaters. This is because they only heat the water that you need, when you need it. This can save you money on your energy bills.
• Long lifespan: Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional storage tank water heaters. This means that you will not have to replace your tankless water heater as often, which can save you money in the long run.

When considering the cost of a tankless water heater, it is important to consider both the upfront cost and the long-term operating cost. Tankless water heaters can save you money on your energy bills in the long run, even though they cost more to purchase upfront. This is because they are more energy efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters.

5. Warranty

The warranty on a tankless water heater is an important consideration when choosing a model. A good warranty will protect you from unexpected repair costs, which can be significant for tankless water heaters. Tankless water heaters are more complex than traditional storage tank water heaters, and they require specialized parts and labor to repair. Therefore, it is important to choose a tankless water heater with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor.

When considering the warranty on a tankless water heater, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

• Length of the warranty: The length of the warranty is an important consideration. A longer warranty will provide you with more protection from unexpected repair costs.
• Coverage of the warranty: The coverage of the warranty is also important. A comprehensive warranty will cover both parts and labor.
• Reputation of the manufacturer: The reputation of the manufacturer is also a factor to consider. A reputable manufacturer is more likely to stand behind their product and honor the warranty.

By considering these factors, you can choose a tankless water heater with a warranty that meets your needs and provides you with peace of mind.

FAQs on How to Buy a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their many advantages, including endless hot water, energy efficiency, space saving, and a longer lifespan. However, there are a few things to consider when buying a tankless water heater to ensure you choose the right one for your needs.

Question 1: How do I choose the right flow rate for my tankless water heater?

The flow rate of a tankless water heater is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The flow rate you need will depend on the number of people in your household and the number of fixtures you have that use hot water. To determine the right flow rate for your needs, consider the following factors: The number of people in your household, The number of bathrooms in your home, The number of fixtures in your home that use hot water (e.g., sinks, showers, dishwashers, washing machines), The peak usage times in your household.

Question 2: How can I tell if a tankless water heater is energy efficient?

The energy efficiency of a tankless water heater is measured by its Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater. When choosing a tankless water heater, it is important to consider the Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater. This can save you money on your energy bills and help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Question 3: Are tankless water heaters more expensive than traditional storage tank water heaters?

Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase than traditional storage tank water heaters. However, they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. When considering the cost of a tankless water heater, it is important to consider both the upfront cost and the long-term operating cost. Tankless water heaters can save you money on your energy bills in the long run, even though they cost more to purchase upfront.

Question 4: What is the lifespan of a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional storage tank water heaters. This means that you will not have to replace your tankless water heater as often, which can save you money in the long run.

Question 5: What is the best way to maintain a tankless water heater?

The best way to maintain a tankless water heater is to have it serviced by a qualified technician once a year. This will help to ensure that your water heater is operating efficiently and safely.

Question 6: What are the benefits of owning a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters offer a number of benefits over traditional storage tank water heaters, including endless hot water, energy efficiency, space saving, and a longer lifespan.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought: By considering the factors discussed in this FAQ, you can choose the right tankless water heater for your needs. Tankless water heaters can be a great way to save money on your energy bills and enjoy endless hot water.

Transition to the next article section: Now that you know how to buy a tankless water heater, you can start shopping for the right model for your home.

Tips on How to Buy a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their many advantages, including endless hot water, energy efficiency, space saving, and a longer lifespan. However, there are a few things to consider when buying a tankless water heater to ensure you choose the right one for your needs.

Here are five tips to help you buy a tankless water heater:

Tip 1: Determine your hot water needs.
The first step is to determine your hot water needs. This will help you choose a tankless water heater with the right flow rate and capacity. Consider the number of people in your household, the number of bathrooms and fixtures you have, and your peak usage times.Tip 2: Choose the right fuel type.
Tankless water heaters can be powered by gas or electricity. Gas tankless water heaters are more efficient than electric tankless water heaters, but they require a gas line. Electric tankless water heaters are less efficient, but they are easier to install.Tip 3: Consider the energy efficiency.
The energy efficiency of a tankless water heater is measured by its Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater. When choosing a tankless water heater, it is important to consider the Energy Factor (EF). The higher the EF, the more energy efficient the water heater. This can save you money on your energy bills and help to reduce your carbon footprint.Tip 4: Choose the right size.
Tankless water heaters come in a variety of sizes. It is important to choose the right size for your needs. A too-small water heater will not be able to meet your hot water demands, while a too-large water heater will be more expensive to purchase and operate.Tip 5: Get professional installation.
Tankless water heaters are more complex to install than traditional storage tank water heaters. It is important to have a qualified technician install your tankless water heater to ensure it is installed correctly and safely.

By following these tips, you can choose the right tankless water heater for your needs. Tankless water heaters can be a great way to save money on your energy bills and enjoy endless hot water.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits: By following these tips, you can choose the right tankless water heater for your needs. Tankless water heaters can save you money on your energy bills, provide endless hot water, and last longer than traditional storage tank water heaters.

Transition to the article’s conclusion: Now that you know how to buy a tankless water heater, you can start shopping for the right model for your home.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Tankless Water Heater

In this comprehensive guide, we have explored the ins and outs of “how to buy a tankless water heater.” We have covered everything from determining your hot water needs to choosing the right fuel type, size, and energy efficiency. We have also provided tips on professional installation and maintenance.

By following the advice in this guide, you can make an informed decision about the best tankless water heater for your home. Tankless water heaters can be a great way to save money on your energy bills, enjoy endless hot water, and reduce your carbon footprint.