When it comes to an efficient HVAC system for your home, various components need to be considered. One such component is your hot water tank. The traditional, grey, vertical hot water tank is a common choice for households. But what about the newer advanced tankless models?
The older tanks typically rested on the floor and take up about 5’ of vertical space. They might last up to 10 years. Perhaps space in your basement is an issue? What if your basement is prone to flooding? What if your demand for hot water isn’t high? For all of these reasons, we encourage you to think about switching to tankless.
Introducing the tankless water tank
The way these tanks work is to provide just enough hot water on demand – they don’t keep an entire tank full of hot water all the time. For this simple reason, they are also known as instantaneous or demand-type water heaters. Cold water is piped through the tankless unit and gets heated on the way using high-powered gas burners or electric coils. Your water does not get heated and reheated continuously. According to Consumer Reports, these heaters are 22 per cent more efficient than traditional ones. In Canada, the top-notch brands of tankless water heaters are Rinnai, Rheem, Stiebel Eltron and Gasland.
Looking for a small water heater for an outdoor shower? A tankless model may just do the trick!
Benefits of tankless water heaters
Energy-saving
There is no heating or reheating of water, which helps eliminate ‘standby loss’. Some might regard this fact as counterintuitive since wouldn’t instant heating require more energy? In fact, no. You will see that, overall, the energy consumed each year is less and the new tank is saving you money.
Space-saving
You don’t need to worry if you have a low ceiling or a cramped crawl space. In fact, many new homes put the tankless water heater on the main basement floor right next to the laundry room!
Longer lifespan
Another advantage of using tankless units is their extended lifespan. The traditional tank-based water heater of standard quality is designed to last for roughly a decade. Tankless models are deemed to last at least twice that long.
Financing and tax breaks
Given their greater energy efficiency, tankless heaters often qualify for provincial tax credits. Fortis BC is offering up to $1000 off! These credits help you offset the purchase and installation costs.
Are there any drawbacks?
- Traditional water tanks of average quality will cost around $500 while the cheapest tankless models may list at $1000.
- Secondly, you need to factor in the cost of labour and installation.
- And these tanks need more experienced professionals to service them.
- You might need to add a water softener. This one will adds to the overall price tag. It helps ensure the smooth running of a tankless heater.
- Limited hot water supply
Although tankless heaters render a steady stream of hot water, it is not unlimited. Traditional tanks can store many gallons of water. For those times when the dishwasher is running and people are showering, the tankless heater may not keep up. Talk to the pros at A1 Kelowna Heating and Cooling about your typical water usage.
The Business Talk!
Give us a call at A1 Heating and Air Conditioning and we can assess your current water tank and provide a free quote. We provide outstanding warranties on our water heaters. It’s our pleasure to provide HVAC system services and end-to-end solutions. We also are here for your regular HVAC maintenance, cleaning and replacement parts.