Updated December 2022:

Finding the Best Tankless Water Heater is no simple task…Water heaters are a ubiquitous sight in most homes and are considered to be a necessary fixture….and now with the invention of tankless water heaters, consumers are faced with a whole new slew of options.

The problem is, there are ALOT of different brands of tankless water heaters available in the market. And it’s not as simple as finding the “best” one (although ones like the Ecosmart Eco 27 is a pretty solid all-around choice). It is important to choose a tankless water heater that is best suited for your home. There are many different models available, each with its own unique features and specifications designed for different uses (e.g. RV vs. Cabin vs. 4 bathroom home).

As a result, choosing the right tankless water heater for your home can be more difficult than it seems….fortunately, I’ve spent YEARS doing this professionally and researching every option so leverage this guide!

Just want the Best Right Now?

…we don’t blame you

Factors to Consider when Shopping for a Tankless Water Heater

Before setting out to shop for a water heater for your home, you should consider these factors.

The size of your home – If your home is large, it is a good idea to have a tanked water heater. If you want a tankless heater, it would be convenient to have one in every bathroom.

The daily need for hot water – Analyze your family’s need for hot water. Calculate the amount of hot water that you need on a daily basis. Choose a model that will give you the desired amount of hot water quickly. Analyze your family’s need for hot water. Determine how much hot water you

Availability of fuel – Water heaters that don’t rely on a storage tank are powered by propane, gas or electricity. If you’re interested in a water heater that uses fuel, check to see if the fuel you want is available in your area.

Features needed – The newer models of water heaters have different features then the older models. Look for a water heater that has the features you need.

Space for the water heater – Decide a specific space for your water heater in the home. Choose a model that will fit in that space. If you are opting for an outdoor water heater, choose a space away from the elements. This will help in keeping the tankless water heater durable for a long time.

Depending on these factors, you should select the best option that meets your needs.

Types of Water Heaters

Water heaters can be divided into 2 types depending upon their storage type.

Tanked Water Heaters – These water heaters have been around for a long time. These are often used to meet the hot water needs of the entire house. The tanked water heaters are bulky and heavy as they have an in-built storage tank for hot water. These heaters occupy more space and are not durable for a long time.

Tankless Water Heaters – The tankless water heaters are also called instant water heaters. This is because the user can get hot water immediately with the touch of a button. The tankless water heaters are compact and lightweight. They can be installed in small spaces and are designed to be energy efficient.

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work? 

It is important to understand how a tankless water heater works before buying one for your home. It will help you to understand how to best use the water heater to fulfill your needs.

Working Mechanism of a Tanked Water Heater – A traditional water heater that uses a tank to store water heats the water continuously so that the user can have hot water when needed. This type of water heater uses more energy because it has to maintain the temperature of the water in the tank. The extra energy that is used to keep the water hot when it is not being used is called standby heat loss.

Working Mechanism of a Tankless Water Heater – These water heaters only heat the water according to the user’s need. The tankless water heaters do not waste energy and do not have standby heat loss. As a result, the tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than others.These water heaters only provide hot water when it is

A few important things that you need to know and understand about tankless water heaters are

Things to Understand About Tankless Water Heaters

Heat Exchanger – A tankless water heater uses a heat exchanger to increase the water’s temperature. This is a device that works by transferring heat from one source to another. Heat exchangers are common in car radiators, air conditioners, and refrigerators. In tankless water heaters, the incoming flow of water activates the heat exchanger. When the hot water tap is turned on, the incoming water circulates through the exchanger. This heats up the water at your set temperature.

Lag Time – The time taken while waiting for the hot water to reach the faucet from the heater is called Lag Time. If the lag time is more then your water consumption bill will become high. This means that even though your power bill is going down, your water bill will go up. This will stop you from making savings even though you are using a tankless water heater. This lag time differs from model to model as there are many different types of water heaters. The most popular sizes are the whole house water heaters and point of use heaters.The time it takes for hot water to reach the

Whole house water heaters – These heaters are large in size and are more expensive. The whole house water heaters can work with more than one outlet at any time. The lag time for these water heaters can run up to several minutes if the home is a large one.

Point-of-use water heaters – These water heaters are small with the capacity to heat one or two outlets. Due to their size, they can fit in your closet or under a cabinet. As a result, the lag time for point-of-use water heaters is lower than in other models.

Power – The tankless water heaters can run on propane, gas or electricity. The whole house models are usually natural gas or propane powered. The point-of-use water heaters can run on either electricity, propane or gas. It is important to select a water heater model depending upon the availability of fuel in your area. Another important thing that you need to consider is the cost of fuel.The tankless water heaters

Choosing The Best Tankless Water Heater For Your Home

There are a wide variety of tankless water heaters in the market. It is a difficult task to choose one for your home. Each tankless water heater has different features. Before buying a water heater check for these features.There is a large selection of tankless water heaters on the market, making

Important Features of Tankless Water Heaters

Energy Efficiency – Thermostats for tankless water heaters are more vitality-saving than thermostats for tanked water heaters. To make sure that you do save some money, check the EF evaluation on the water heater before purchasing. A higher EF (Energy Factor) number indicates a more efficient water heater. Buying a tankless water heater that has a higher EF will ensure that you save more on your energy bills. But, you should also consider the cost of operating the water heater for an exact calculation. The operating cost of a tankless water heater depends on its model.

Electric Tankless Water Heater – The operating cost will be more as the cost of electricity is more.

Gas Powered Tankless Water Heater – The cost of operating a tankless water heater will be less because gas is cheaper. The cost of operating a tankless water heater varies by model. A gas-powered heater will give a 70 F temperature rise if it has a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute. However, an electric model will only deliver up to 2 gallons per minute for the same temperature rise.

Output Capacity – Ensure that the tankless water heater you select has the output capacity you require. A minimum of 2 gallons per minute is necessary, but a heater with 5 gallon per minute output is ideal for residential use. Gas-powered tankless water heaters are a popular choice as they often provide a higher flow rate. If you want to be safe, choose a tankless water heater with an output of 8 gallons per minute. This will be enough to supply laundry machines and dishwashers with hot water.

Temperature – When selecting a water heater, check its temperature increase. This will help to ensure that the heater can give the desired output of hot water. Temperature increase is the difference in temperature between the groundwater and output. The temperature of the groundwater keeps altering according to the climate. The temperature of the groundwater impacts the flow and speed of the water heater.

Fuel – The cost of operating a tankless water heater is greatly influenced by the type of fuel it uses. Most people choose tankless water heaters to lower their energy costs. This is possible only when the water heater provides a consistent supply of hot water. Tankless water heaters can be powered by electricity, propane, or gas. The type of fuel available in your area will play a major role in your decision.

Tip: Compare the cost of fuel type to understand the operating cost of the water heater. Use this information to select your water heater.

Fuel Supply Line – The fuel supply line for your water heater should be of the proper size. A correct sized fuel line will help the water heater to give instant hot water output. Most gas tankless heaters have an output of about 200,000 BTU.

Ignition – The ignition system on the water heater affects the user’s savings. Tankless water heaters that have simple ignition systems have lesser savings. Expensive water heaters often have a complex ignition system that conserves fuel. This, in turn, leads to a lower energy bill for the user.

Venting – Tankless water heaters that utilize gas as a power source need vents in order to function properly. Picking Category 3 vents is ideal as they support better combustion. Vents are necessary for indoor gas-based tankless water heaters. Outdoor gas-based tankless water heaters do not require venting. These water heaters need to be installed away from harsh weather conditions to prevent damage. When choosing an outdoor heater model, select one that has antifreeze features. This will help to enhance the durability and keep it

BestTankless Water Heater Brands 

There are many different brands of tankless water heaters in the market. Some brands enjoy more popularity than others due to various reasons. Customers often develop loyalty towards a brand when they get good quality products from the manufacturer, customer’s expectations are met by the product, and the product is durable and is user-friendly.

The most popular tankless water heater brands that are preferred by customers are:

Rheem – Rheem is based in Atlanta, Georgia and is a popular, trusted brand. The company has been making good quality tankless water heaters for many decades. The company always strives to improve its models to meet the customer’s needs better. Rheem incorporates the latest innovations and smart technology into their water heaters. The current best selling and popular water heater from Rheem is the RTGH-95DVLN. This is a powerful gas-powered tankless water heater with EF.

EcoSmart – EcoSmart tankless water heaters are popular for their faster output. These water heaters have a compact design which allows them to be installed in small spaces. This design makes them a great choice for homeowners who have small spaces. All EcoSmart tankless water heaters have ETL and FIDE certifications. This company strives to make eco-friendly water heaters to reduce environmental stress. Environment conscious customers looking to buy tankless water heaters should check out EcoSmart.

TAKAGI – This company is famous for making high flow tankless water heaters. Takagi water heaters produce consistent hot water even in high altitude places. This feature separates the brand from the rest of the water heater brands in the market. The company manufactures both gas and electric tankless water heaters. All water heaters have a compact design and high water outflow to meet user needs.

Rinnai – Although Rinnai is a new entrant, this company has gained a good customer base. The company is based in Nagoya, Japan. It manufactures high quality electric and gas-powered water heaters. Rinnai offers good quality products with long warranties and great customer service.

Stiebel Eltron – This German company has been making home heating appliances since 1924. Stiebel Eltron makes tankless water heaters with advanced technology. Their tankless water heaters can produce hot water even in high altitude areas. This feature makes the Stiebel Eltron a popular choice among customers.

Bosch Thermotechnology – Bosch is another Germany company that has its headquarters in Wetzlar. Bosch manufactures top-quality tankless water heaters. The company is popular for making small and highly energy-efficient water heaters. Bosch tankless water heaters are popular as they are cost-effective.

The Best Tankless Water Heaters

We have compiled a list of the best tankless water heaters that can meet a variety of needs. These tankless water heaters have many positive features including:

1. Quality
2. Durability
3. Safety Features
4. Ease of Use
5. Energy Efficiency
6. Eco-Friendly

EcoSmart ECO-27 Tankless Water Heater

There are no “no-brainers” when it comes to selecting a tankless water heater but the Ecosmart Eco 27 is about as close as it gets. It’s simple, durable and easy to use. It’s got great flow for the size and the price is unbeatable. Read our in-depth review of the EcoSmart Eco 27 here.

Pros:

Requires Low Maintenance

A glance through its instruction manual lets you know that the EcoSmart ECO 27, a low maintenance device, meaning that it takes little or no effort to keep it functioning correctly.

Good Flow Rate

The EcoSmart ECO 27 offers one of the highest flow rates of all the EcoSmart heaters. Its output of 6 GPM means that the heater, when installed correctly, is more than capable of supplying enough hot water the service four showers and a sink.

Self-Modulating Technology

The ECO 27 features EcoSmart Peyton to self-modulating technology, specifically designed to draw less energy than their traditional counterparts.

Safe to Use

Designed using internal jumpers that limits the temperature of the water 105 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning that they are safe for younger children or the elderly to operate unsupervised.

Cons

• Some customers have expressed concerns about the company’s warranty policies being overly strict.
• Always check the warranty coverage to ensure its validity. In some cases, the warranties are voided if the products are not installed professionally.
• As this is an electrical product, you must check with your service provider before you purchase as it was a need a minimum of 200 AMP with 3 DP breakers operate correctly

Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater

• Dimensions 17.75 x 13.12 x 29.5 inches
• Weight 49lbs

This compact tankless water heater runs on propane and is ideal for residential use. It can supply hot water to storage tanks and other domestic hot water systems.

Features

1. Safety – The safety features of this water heater help to keep it durable and damage-free. The interiors do not overheat or freeze during extreme temperatures. The built-in surge protector prevents the unit from overheating while in use.The safety aspects of this water heater assist in maintaining its durability and

2. Hot Water Supply – The Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP can supply hot water to 1 or 2 bathrooms depending on the climate. If the temperature of the groundwater is warm then this heater can meet the needs of 2 bathrooms. If the heater is used in colder regions then it can supply hot water to only 1 bathroom.

3. Remote Control – The Takagi water heater is very easy to use as it comes included with its own remote control. The water output temperature can be adjusted with the remote.

4. Inclusions – This water heater comes included with a direct vent conversion kit, pipe cover lead-free isolation valves, and pressure relief valves.

Pros

1. Compact – The small compact design of the Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP water heater helps it to fit into small spaces.

2. Multipurpose – This water heater can be used to supply hot water for different domestic needs in the home.

3. Lightweight – As this water heater weighs only 38lbs it can be installed anywhere in the home.

Cons

1. Installation – The Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP water heater should be installed by professionals only. The warranty becomes valid only if a licensed technician is called for installation.

Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus

• Dimensions 16.6″H x 14.5″W x 4.6″D
• Weight 19lbs

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus electric water heaters are engineered in Germany. These water heaters are safer than propane water heaters and can be installed easily. Read our full review of the Steibel Eltron Tempra 29 here.

Features

1. Advanced Flow Control – This exclusive feature on the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus ensures a steady supply of hot water. The water temperature remains constant and does not fall down during use. The heater adjusts the water flow to keep the water temperature steady at all times.

2. Digital Display – The temperature of the output water is displayed on a screen on the water heater. This helps the user to check the water temperature while using it.

3. Energy-efficient – This water heater adjusts its power needs depending upon the water temperature. This feature helps to bring down the user’s power bills as the water heater consumes lesser power.

Pros

1. Silent – This water heater works silently and does not make a lot of noise when being used.

2. Compact – The Stiebel Eltron 29 Plus Tempra is small in size and has a compact design. This water heater does not need special venting also.

3. User friendly – Users can adjust their output water temperature by turning the dial on the heater.

4. Steady Supply – This water heater can supply a steady stream of hot water even when the heater is used for a long time.

Cons

1. Expensive – The Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus is expensive than the other tankless water heaters.

2. Warning – This water heater is on the list of California’s Proposition 65. Some chemicals used in the manufacturing process are thought to be cancer-causing. This is the reason why this water heater is on the list.

Rheem RTG-70DVLN Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater 

• Dimensions 25.6″H x 13.8″W x 9.8″D
• Weight 61.7lbs

This direct vent tankless natural gas water heater is best suited for small homes. The Rheem RTG series are compatible with residential hot water recirculation pumps.

Features

1. Energy Efficient – The all-copper heat exchanger in this water heater makes it 82% more energy efficient. The electric controls have an intelligent design that improves its safety and efficiency.

2. Low Flow Fixture – The low activation rate of .40GPM on the Rheem RTG-64DVLN helps to ensure steady hot water.

3. Alert – The maintenance setting alerts the homeowner by flashing a warning code. This enables the homeowner to contact the company for a service check.

4. Eco-Friendly – The low NOx emissions of this tankless water heater meet SCAQMD requirements. This makes the Rheem RTG-DVLN a truly eco-friendly appliance.

Pros

1. Easy Installation – Installing the Rheem RTG water heater is quite easy. The guide is very detailed and can be used for self-installation by the homeowner.

2. Multi-functional – This tankless water heater can be improved by using different attachments. The EZ link cable can be used to connect two tankless water heater and use them as a single unit.

3. User-friendly – Digital display of water temperature, remote control are some user-friendly features.

Cons

1. Extra parts – The Rheem RTG-64DVLN often need extra parts to make it function as desired. These parts need to be bought at an extra cost by the user.

Eccotemp i12-NG Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater

• Dimensions 17″H x 29″W x 11″D
• Weight 28.9 lbs

This natural gas tankless water heater is suitable for small homes. The Eccotemp i12-NG water heater has unique features that make it stand out from the rest.

Features

1. Child Lock – The Eccotemp i12-NG has a child lock feature that adds to the unit’s safety feature. The temperature setting cannot be changed when the child lock feature is on. This helps to prevent accidents and damage to the water heater.

2. Temperature Control – This water heater auto-adjusts the output water temperature. The groundwater temperature is used to calculate the right temperature of output water.

3. Touch Screen – The touch screen feature on the Eccotemp i12-NG makes it easy to use. The screen also displays the water temperature, GPM flow, and automatic temperature controls.

4. Energy Efficient – The Eccotemp i12-NG uses gas only when heating water. The heater uses electric power for digital display and during idle time. This makes the water heater truly energy efficient.

Pros

1. Gorilla Glass – The LCD touch screen on the Eccotemp i12-NG is made with gorilla glass. This strong glass remains durable even when the heater is used frequently or for a long time.

2. Safety – This water heater has power ventilation that acts as a safety feature for the user.

3. Easy Installation – This water heater can be installed easily by following the installation guide.

Cons

1. No Remote – The Eccotemp i12-NG does not have a remote control to operate the water heater. The user has to manually operate the heater by using the controls on the LCD screen.

Rheem RTGH-95DVLN Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater

• Dimensions 27.5″H x 18.5″W x 9.8″D
• Weight 79lbs

The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN water heater is an industrial quality indoor water heater. This heater has a high altitude capability of up to 9840 feet above sea level. This feature makes it a great choice for any home.

Features

1. High Water Flow – The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN has a high water flow of 9.5 gallons per minute. This high water flow makes this industrial level water heater the best in its category. This heater can provide hot water to 2 showerheads, a dishwasher, and a laundry machine at the same time.

2. Energy Efficient – The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN has intelligent electronic controls that ensure safety. These controls also help to keep the homeowner’s energy bills down when using the heater. This water heater boasts of an energy efficiency level of 94% which is the highest in its class.

3. Eco-friendly – This tankless water heater has very low NOx emissions. This feature helps to make it an eco-friendly water heater.

Pros

1. Self Diagnostic System – This system alerts the homeowner to the water heater’s maintenance issues. The homeowner can call in the service agents to prevent damaging the heater.

2. Digital Remote – The remote control displays temperature setting and maintenance codes.

3. Safety – Overheat film wrap, builtin electric blower protect the heater from damage.

Cons

1. Proposition 65 Warning – This water heater is listed on the California Proposition 65 list. The chemicals used in manufacturing the Rheem RTGH-95DVLN might be dangerous.

2. Expensive – This industrial tankless water heater is quite expensive than others.

Takagi T-H3-DV-P Tankless Water Heater

• Dimensions 22.5″H x 17.75″W x 10.75″D
• Weight 59 lbs

The Takagi T-H3-DV-P tankless water heater is a heavyweight that can meet the needs of the entire home. This water heater can be linked to other domestic units with ease.

Features

1. Water Flow – The Takagi T-H3-DV-P tankless water heater is a one-stop solution for the entire home. This water heater has a high water flow output of 10 gallons per minute. This heater can be used to supply hot water to 4 showers in a warm climate and 3 showers in a cold climate.

2. Energy Efficient – This water heater has a 95% energy efficiency level and is ENERGY STAR certified.

3. Multipurpose – This water heater can be linked to other units to meet the user’s needs. The Easy Link Up cable can be used to connect 4 units without using a Multi-unit controller. Up to 20 units can be connected with a Multi-Link Up cable using a Multi-unit controller.

4. Heat Exchanger – The primary heat exchanger on the Takagi T-H3-DV-P is a commercial-grade copper alloy. This offers 25 times better heat transfer than stainless steel. The secondary heat exchanger utilizes stainless steel for corrosion resistance.

Pros

1. Safety – This water heater has all the required safety measures in place to prevent damage. This heater is protected from damage due to overheating, energy surge, and freezing.

2. Eco-friendly – The Takagi T-H3-DV-P emits ultra-low NOx emissions when being used. This water heater emits <20ppm of NOx which makes it an eco-friendly appliance.

Cons

1. Expensive – The Takagi T-H3-DV-P tankless water heater is expensive when compared to others.

Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater 

• Dimensions 26″H x 18.5″W x 10″D
• Weight 82lbs

The Rinnai RUC98in Ultra water heater is best suited for commercial use or in large homes. This is because this water heater has an output of 9.8 gallons per minute. Read our Full Review of the Rinnai RUC98in here.

Features

1. Temperature Lock – The temperature setting on the Rinnai RUC98iN can be locked. This helps to keep the temperature of the hot water uniform during use.

2. Scale Detection – All water heaters develop scales in their pipes after prolonged use. These scales prevent the water from getting into the heater. The Rinnai RUC98iN water heater has its own automatic scale detection feature. This feature detects scales in the water heater and ensures its durability.

3. Eco-Friendly – The Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra tankless water heater has very low NOx emissions. This low emission rate makes this water heater a great eco-friendly appliance.

Pros

1. Energy Efficient – The Rinnai RUC98iN water heater is Energy Star certified. It has an energy rating of .82 when running on natural gas.

2. Flexible Design – This water heater can be installed either vertically or horizontally. This unique design feature allows the homeowner to install the heater at any place.

3. Safety – This water heater has smart chips that prevent it from short-circuiting. This safety feature helps to keep the heater safe from damage and also ensures user safety.

Cons

1. Expensive – The Rinnai RUC98iN is expensive compared to other water heaters with similar features.

Rinnai V65EP Tankless Water Heater

• Dimensions 24.3″H x 14.04″W x 9.6″D
• Weight 43.6lbs

The Rinnai V65EP tankless water heater is designed for outdoor installation. This feature makes this water heater unique from other tankless water heaters.

Features

1. Gas Valve Blower – The built-in gas valve blower adjusts the gas intake according to the hot water output. This feature helps to reduce energy consumption making the Rinnai V65EP energy efficient.

2. Leak Detection – The Rinnai V65EP water heater has an automatic leak detection feature. This feature shuts down the water heater automatically if it detects a gas leak.

Pros

1. Temperature Setting – The water temperature can be set by the touch of a button. This will help to avoid temperature fluctuations in the water output.

2. Bathfill Option – This feature on the Rinnai V65EP allows you to set the number of gallons you want in your bathtub. This is a water-conserving feature that helps to reduce water wastage.

3. Scale Detection – This automatic feature helps the homeowner to detect scales. This feature identifies the places where the scales have built up inside the heater.

Cons

1. Expensive – The Rinnai V65EP tankless water heater is expensive when compared to others.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater 

1. Energy Efficient – Tankless water heaters help to cut down on your energy bills. Most tankless water heaters will help you to save up to 40% of your home energy after installation. This huge monthly saving potential prompts people to shift to tankless water heaters.

2. Instant Hot Water – Tankless water heaters allow the user to enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water. These heaters are designed to give a steady flow of hot water at the touch of a button.

3. No Heat Loss – The tankless water heaters do not waste energy. As there is no tank, the water simply passes through the heat exchanger to get to the set temperature. These heaters need only a small amount of power to heat water when needed.

4. Durable – The tankless water heaters are extremely durable when compared to tanked water heaters. These water heaters will last five to ten years longer than the tanked water heaters. While most tankless water heater models are expensive they are worth the cost in the long run. These water heaters remain durable, have special features and safety measures.

5. Compact – The design of the tankless water heaters is different from the tanked water heaters. The tankless heaters are compact and can be installed in small spaces. This compact design allows the homeowner to install the heater close to the faucet or shower. BY doing so, the user can enjoy instant hot water at the touch of a button.

6. Flexible – Tanked water heaters are meant for indoor use only. Tankless water heaters are available in both indoor and outdoor models. The water heater models that can be installed outside come with an anti-freeze kit. This helps to protect the unit from freezing in extreme climate.

7. Eco-Friendly – The tankless water heaters are eco-friendly heating options. These heaters have almost zero emissions and are completely safe for the environment. The gas-powered models use low NOx technology that helps them to keep emissions low. The electric tankless water heaters don’t generate harmful greenhouse gas.

8. Safety Features – Tankless water heaters have many safety features that protect the user. Surge and overheat protection, child lock feature are some commonly seen. Some tankless heaters have safety features that prevent scalding water from reaching your faucet.

9. User Friendly – The tankless water heaters are quite easy to operate. The users do need to have a lot of knowledge to operate a tankless water heater. Most tankless models have a remote control for easy operation. Newer tankless models allow the user to set a fixed temperature to prevent accidents. The only part where professional help is needed is for installation. All tankless water heaters need to be installed by professionals only.

10. No Flooding – Sometimes the tanked water heaters cause flooding due to damage. But with tankless water heaters, there is no such risk as there is no storage tank.

11. New Features – The newer models of tankless water heaters have extra safety features. The self-diagnostics and scale detection feature help to keep the unit and users safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I replace my existing tank water heater with a tankless water heater?

Yes. You can replace your existing water heater with a tankless water heater. But before making the change you need to understand your need and buy the appropriate heater.

There are 2 different types of tankless water heaters you can choose from.

Gas Water Heater – Tankless gas water heaters work on natural gas or propane. These water heaters need a special vent pipe to carry the gas. A stable gas supply is needed to keep the water heater working comfortably. Usually, the gas pipe that is connected to the kitchen is extended to the water heater.

Electric Water Heater – The tankless electric water heater needs a bigger gauge wire. Breakers are also needed to ensure safety while using the water heater.

Is it safe to install a tankless water heater in my attic? 

Installing a tankless water heater in your attic can be a tricky task. This is because the plumbing system needs to be supportive of the water heater in the attic. The water input should not be disrupted to avoid causing damage to the water heater. Water siphoning can trap air in the water lines and damage the heater if it is installed in the attic. Proper precautions need to be taken to avoid damage to the water heater.

I would like to install a tankless water heater in my vacation cabin or home. Is it possible to drain all the water when I’m not using the system to prevent freeze damage?

Yes. Most tankless water heater models allow the user to drain water from them. But, it is a good idea to check the product guide before trying to drain out the water heater.

A few tips to follow while draining out your tankless water heater are:

• Make sure to empty both the water lines that run to and from the unit.
• Look out for check valves as they will stop water from draining out completely from the heater.
• Blow air through the water pipes to ensure that water comes out completely.

Is it advisable to install my own tankless water heater? 

No. Tankless water heaters should be installed by professionals only. You should not try to install your tankless water heater by yourself for a variety of reasons like

Warranty – The warranty becomes valid only if they are installed by professionals.

Damage – The water heater might get damaged during self-installation. This can happen due to a lack of understanding of proper installation procedures.

Wiring – Tankless water heaters need special wiring that often needs to be configured in the home. Some heaters need 240-volt wiring to work perfectly.

Vents – Tankless water heaters need special vents to ensure safety. Special plumbing can also be needed to ensure that the heaters work smoothly.

Gas Lines – If you are installing a gas tankless water heater for the first time, then you need a gas line and gas meter.

Keeping in mind all the above points, it is a good idea to call in the professionals for installation.

I read that you cannot install some tankless water heaters in certain areas. How true is that? 

Yes, it is true. In some states and cities, the installation of some water heaters are prohibited. The reasons for such laws vary from place to place. To ensure that you buy the right water heater:

• Check with your local authorities before buying or ordering your water heater.
• Check your local code restrictions and ensure that your water heater is compliant.
• These steps will help you to avoid getting stuck with an unwanted water heater.

Why don’t any of my tankless water heaters show the first-hour rating? 

The first-hour rating is a measure that is used to calculate the hot water output in a tanked water heater. Tankless water heaters will not show the first-hour rating as they do not have a storage tank. Instead, the tankless water heaters have a gallon per hour rating that is used as a measure of water output. The temperature of the input water to a tankless water heater impacts its flow rate. The colder the water, the higher will be the output flow rate and vice versa.

Which is the best temperature to heat my incoming underground water? 

The best water temperature cannot be determined as it varies from person to person. Some people might prefer hot water while others might prefer warm water. The temperature of the incoming groundwater changes according to the climate. As a result, we cannot determine the right water temperature for incoming water. Water temperature that is between 90ºF to 100ºF is considered to be ideal.

Exactly how much will a tankless water heater save me? 

It is difficult to determine the exact amount of money that you will save by using a tankless water heater. This is because your savings depend upon a lot of factors like:

Hot water usage – If there is a higher demand for hot water in your home then the power or gas bill will be high. You will not be able to see much savings due to higher water consumption.

Cost of gas – It is important to calculate the price of gas, propane or power when using a water heater. The prices of fuels fluctuate over time causing a change in your energy bills.

Energy efficiency – Choosing a water heater that has special energy-efficient features. These features will help to save energy and also bring down your bills saving your money.

How long will my tankless water heater last? 

Most high-quality tankless water heaters are long-lasting and worth the investment. The most popular tankless water heaters have a lifespan of up to 25 years. To ensure your tankless water heater lasts as long as possible, keep a few things in mind.

• Call in professionals for installation, avoid self-installation.
• Ensure that the water heater is used carefully by all members in the home.
• Check the groundwater quality and temperature to understand its effect on the heater.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks on your water heater to avoid damage.
• Clean out the scale deposits to ensure a proper water inflow and outflow from the water heater.
• Outdoor tankless water heaters must be installed in a safe place away from the elements.
• Exposure to the natural elements will damage the water heater and cause it to breakdown.

Choose a tankless water heater that has automatic maintenance detection features. This feature will allow you to maintain your water heater in good condition for a long time.

Conclusion 

The demand for tankless water heaters is on the rise as homeowners look for efficient ways to heat water. These types of water heaters don’t use a storage tank, so they take up less space and can save energy.

• The newer models have many in-built safety features like child lock features.
• The tankless models can now meet the needs of a large family as the newer models can be linked to other units. This feature helps the user to get hot water across the home without having to worry about his bills.
• The tankless water heaters are energy efficient and help to reduce your bills by up to 40%. The low emission rate of the propane and gas-powered heaters makes them eco-friendly.
• The compact size and higher durability of these water heaters are another great reason for opting to choose them.

Upgrade your home with a tankless water heater to experience a real change.