Cold Weather Tips You Should Do When You Have a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters have grown in popularity recently due to their effective energy usage and the positive effect they have on property owner’s energy costs. They also work fast and effectively for what you and your family really care about, having plenty of hot water fast all over your house.

But what should you know about tankless water heaters and maintenance or issues during colder weather? Here’s what to know about different types of tankless water heaters so you won’t be left in the cold at the worst time.

What’s a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is a relatively small unit which heats up water on demand – only when you’re cutting hot water on somewhere in the house. Conventional water heaters keep large quantities of water hot throughout the day, even when you might go hours using little or no hot water. Tankless water heaters use a heat exchanger inside the device. When you turn on hot water from a tap or an appliance, the exchanger heats the water as it streams through the device.

Main Kinds of Tankless Water Heaters

As with most appliances, there are two key energy choices when it comes to fueling a tankless water heater: gas or electric. A gas tankless water heater usually works more effectively and promptly to put out hot water.

Although they are typically more effective, gas powered systems require electric power. So, if you reside in a location with frequent power outages, you may need to reconsider going with a tankless water heater system for your home.

Do Tankless Water Heaters Work in Cold Climates?

Tankless water heaters are a good alternative for houses located in warm or cold climates. However, there are some variables that can play into just how well the heating systems operate in chillier environments.

If you live in a cooler environment, a gas heating unit is absolutely a better alternative than an electrical design since gas-powered tankless water heaters produce heat at a more efficient rate than their electrical counterparts. Whether they’re tankless or otherwise, electric water heaters don’t warm water as promptly or successfully as their gas counterparts.

To keep your home comfy in winter, make certain you’re installing the right dimension tankless water heater for your home and usage. A professional tankless water heater technician can recommend the correct size based on how your family expects to use it along with other factors of your house, region and appliances or other uses.

The Pros and Cons of Going Tankless

There are advantages and disadvantages when thinking about putting in a tankless water heater, along with knowing what it’ll be like during colder weather.

Positives of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient compared to a traditional water heater since tankless systems heat water on an as-needed basis. Because the water is heated as needed, it gives your home a constant, endless supply of hot water. It removes the frustrating issue of running out of hot water.

The machines themselves takes up less space than a conventional water heater. It’s possible to put a tankless water heater in a laundry room or closet.

If you’re wanting to lower energy and utility costs, a tankless water heater can be a significant savings. According to Energy.gov, tankless water heaters can be 24-34% more energy effective than conventional heaters. Even in homes that utilize a large quantity of hot water, tankless water heaters are generally about 8-14% more efficient. Tankless systems prevent the standby heat losses of an older or traditional water tank, consequently saving energy.

Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters

On the other hand, a tankless water heater’s water circulation rate is limited. For instance, running multiple fixtures or appliances at the same time might hurt the system’s effectiveness. If you wish to run your dishwasher and take a shower at the same time, you might not have enough hot water.

In colder environments or colder months, it’s more difficult for a tankless water heater to heat water rapidly, so your water may not obtain the temperature you’d expect. Some homeowners choose to install more than one tankless device in their houses to help with this issue.

What to Consider When Hiring a Pro

When working with an expert to install a tankless water heater, make certain you work with someone who can help you select the appropriate system for your home. You don’t want to put in a new tankless water heater only to find out it’s not right for your requirements. A professional technician will do the proper job of insulating pipes and components of the system. This also is key in keeping hot water hot throughout your house.

If your device is likely to be installed outdoors, your pro will need to winterize it. Some tankless water heater manufacturers suggest you don’t install a system outside in regions where the temperature can drop under 35 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the type of information an expert technician will be able to help you with while making a decision.

South End Plumbing specializes in tankless water heater systems, so remember, we are just a click away. We also specialize in leak detection – give us a call! South End Plumbing is one of the only companies that will give you a free estimate. Call us at 704-919-1722 or fill out the form online to schedule a visit.