We get a lot of questions regarding tank-less water heaters. When replacing your water heater it is best to know the options that are available. First, we need to explain the difference between a tanked water heater and a tank-less water heater.
A tanked water heater is a vessel of water commonly 40 or 50 gallons, usually in a residential application. The capacity of the tank is the available storage of hot water. In an electric water heater there are usually two elements that heat the water. Only one element works at a time, using about 20 amps of electricity. In a gas, tanked style water heater a single burner is located in the bottom of the tank, and uses approximately 40,000 Btu’s of gas to heat the water. A tanked water heater’s life expectancy is about 10 years and they are less efficient than tank-less water heaters. Flushing the tank regularly as per the manufacturer’s instructions may increase the efficiency and longevity of the water heater.
A tank-less electric or gas water heater is a “pass through” style devise with no storage. The water is heated instantly as it passes through the heater. The tank-less water heater is only about the size of a carry on suit case, it is very small and is mounted on a wall. Tank-less water heaters can give continuous hot water with limited capacity, in other words, it may not work well with more than two fixtures running at the same time. Water passes very quickly through the tank-less water heater. To heat the water instantaneously more heat is needed. Electric tank-less water heaters use 4-5 heating elements in a row to heat the water quickly. The elements will turn on as needed depending upon the quantity of water passing through the heater. All the elements can run at once if needed. The gas tank-less water heater requires approximately 200,000 Btu’s of gas, which is 5 times more than a standard tank style. Life expectancy of tank-less water heater is about 15-20 years. Tank-less water heaters require some maintenance as well, like de-scaling annually.
The biggest complication in changing to a tank-less water heater is the upgraded energy requirements. The electric tank-less water heater uses 4-5 electric elements at once requiring 120-150 amp circuit to the heating devise. Most homes only have a 200amp service for the entire home. This may require installing a new panel or sub panel to satisfy its electrical requirements. The gas tank-less water heater usually requires a dedicated ¾ inch gas supply line. The changes to upgrade the power supply, if required, can add greatly to the investment of installing a tank-less water heater.
Tank-less water heaters are more efficient because they only heat the water as it’s needed. They are great for a big family that is constantly running out of hot water or someone that enjoys long hot showers.
If you have thought about upgrading to a tank-less water heater or have any questions about incentives available on tank-less water heaters please call and ask for Johnny D.
