Save energy and money with tankless water heaters

Monday, March 30, 2015

These days, we can get all sorts of things on demand, even our home appliances. For example, tankless water heaters provide hot water with a flick of the hot-water tap.

“Depending on your home’s daily water demands, tankless water heaters can save you both energy and money because they heat water only when it’s needed,” said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension housing and consumer specialist.

Otherwise known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, tankless water heaters work by heating cold water with either a gas burner or electric element when the hot-water tap is turned on.

Generally, tankless water heaters can generate 2 gallons to 5 gallons per minute, though gas-fired models may be able to produce at a higher rate.

Although they can be more expensive compared to conventional models, tankless water heaters tend to have a longer life span – more than 20 years versus 10 years to 15 years. They also have easily replaceable parts that could further extend their operational life, said Peek.

A homeowner interested in installing a tankless water heater should account for factors such as fuel type and availability, energy efficiency and associated costs.

It also is important to consider what size tank will best fit the needs of the household. For instance, one tankless heater might not provide enough gallons per minute of hot water when it is placed under multiple demands at the same time. For example, if you need to take a shower, run the dishwasher and start the washing machine, a single tankless water heater might not be enough.

In those cases, the answer may be to install multiple tankless heaters, which also can be used as boosters for other appliances such as dishwashers or laundry washers or for solar water heating systems.

Finally, make sure the appliance is properly installed by selecting a qualified contractor to do the work.

“If you do decide to install a tankless water heater yourself, contact the manufacturer for installation and instruction manuals,” Peek said. “You also should contact local authorities about any necessary work permits and local water heater installation codes.”

For more information on tankless water heaters, visit www.energy.gov and contact your county Extension office.