Three Reasons to Switch to Tankless Water Heaters

If you’re relying on a traditional water heater and facing high energy costs, bulky equipment taking up space, or inconsistent hot water supply, it might be time to consider upgrading to a tankless water heater. Unlike traditional tank heaters, which store and continuously heat a large tank of water, tankless water heaters heat water on demand. This not only reduces energy consumption but also offers benefits like compact design and endless hot water. Let’s explore why tankless water heaters are becoming the go-to choice for both businesses and homes, and how they can transform your hot water experience.

Reason №1: Reliable, Endless Supply of Hot Water

Traditional water heaters are limited by the size of the storage tank, which typically holds between 30 and 80 gallons of water. Once that hot water is used up, there’s a delay as the tank refills and reheats. This waiting period can be frustrating, especially in busy households or commercial settings like restaurants or gyms where hot water demand is constant.

Tankless water heaters solve this issue by heating water as it flows through the system, providing a steady, unlimited supply of hot water. Whether it’s for showers, kitchen sinks, laundry machines, or dishwashers, a tankless heater can deliver hot water on demand, whenever and wherever it’s needed. Here’s how this endless hot water supply works:

• Heating on Demand: When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water flows into the tankless unit. The water is then heated by electric coils or a gas burner as it passes through the system, reaching the desired temperature almost instantly.
• No Reheating Needed: Since water is heated only when needed, there’s no need to constantly reheat a full tank, eliminating the wait time for a tank to refill and heat up again.

For commercial settings with high and unpredictable hot water demands, multiple tankless units can be installed in parallel. This setup provides a redundancy system, ensuring that if one unit needs maintenance, the others will continue providing hot water without interruption. Tankless water heaters can also be installed at the point of use for specific appliances or sinks, ensuring that these high-demand spots always have hot water. This flexibility makes tankless systems ideal for homes and businesses alike.

Case in Point: Perfect for Busy Households and Commercial Environments

Imagine a busy morning with multiple showers, laundry running, and dishes being washed. With a traditional water heater, you’re likely to run out of hot water, resulting in lukewarm showers or delaying laundry. A tankless system, however, can handle multiple demands simultaneously, maintaining the desired water temperature consistently. In restaurants, salons, or spas, where a steady hot water supply is critical, a tankless water heater eliminates the risk of downtime due to an empty tank.

Reason №2: Saving Valuable Space with a Compact Design

Traditional water heaters are often large, heavy tanks that require ample floor space. In many homes, the water heater occupies a substantial portion of the utility room, basement, or closet, and it needs extra clearance for ventilation and safety. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are compact and wall-mounted, offering significant space-saving advantages.

• Compact and Lightweight: Tankless units are small and can easily be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable floor space. This makes them particularly useful in apartments, condos, and smaller homes where space is limited.
• Flexible Installation Options: Tankless systems can be installed in various locations, such as under a sink or in a cabinet. This is ideal for smaller homes, and businesses can install multiple units throughout a building as needed.

In commercial settings, every square foot counts. Tankless heaters offer a smaller footprint, allowing you to optimize your space for other purposes, whether that’s additional storage, shelving, or workspace. The light weight of tankless units also makes them easier to install on walls, meaning you’re not sacrificing floor space in crowded utility areas.

The Space-Saving Impact on Your Home or Business

Think about the amount of space occupied by a traditional 80-gallon tank water heater. Replacing it with a tankless unit not only frees up that area but also improves the overall functionality and organization of your utility space. Many homeowners appreciate this compactness, as it allows them to convert previously occupied space into storage or even a more spacious laundry area. Businesses can also benefit, as freed-up utility space can be repurposed, maximizing the usability of every square foot.

Reason №3: Energy Savings and Cost Reduction

One of the most compelling reasons to switch to a tankless water heater is the potential for significant energy savings. Traditional storage tank heaters operate continuously to keep a large reservoir of water hot, even when it’s not being used. This constant reheating, called “standby heat loss,” leads to higher energy consumption and, ultimately, higher energy bills.

Tankless water heaters operate differently:

• Energy Use Only When Needed: A tankless water heater activates only when you turn on a hot water tap. This means it doesn’t consume energy to keep a reserve of hot water ready, drastically reducing energy usage.
• Seasonal and Peak Demand Flexibility: Because tankless systems can adjust to demand, you save energy in months when hot water use is low, like in the summer. This adaptability makes tankless systems more energy-efficient over time.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily can achieve up to 34% more energy efficiency with a tankless water heater compared to traditional tank systems. For homes or businesses that use even more hot water, the savings can be around 8% to 14% on energy bills. Although tankless systems generally have a higher upfront cost, the energy savings often make up for this over time, especially in commercial settings where hot water usage is high.

Reducing Environmental Impact and Utility Costs

By using energy more efficiently, tankless water heaters also reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with power consumption, making them a greener choice. Some models even come with energy ratings that qualify for rebates or incentives, further reducing the cost of installation. Businesses looking to meet sustainability goals will find that tankless systems can help lower their overall energy footprint.

Moreover, tankless water heaters tend to last longer than traditional models—often up to 20 years with proper maintenance. This means fewer replacements and less waste over time, adding to the system’s cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

If you’re considering a switch, here are a few things to keep in mind. While tankless water heaters offer many benefits, they may require a higher initial investment compared to traditional tank heaters. However, the long-term savings in energy costs, reduced maintenance, and extended lifespan make tankless systems a wise investment for many.

• Sizing and Flow Rate: Ensure the tankless system you choose matches your hot water needs. Tankless systems come in different capacities, so selecting the right one for your household or business ensures you don’t encounter any shortfalls.
• Professional Installation: For optimal performance, a professional installation is recommended. Tankless systems, especially those powered by gas, require precise connections, proper venting, and occasionally electrical upgrades, depending on the model.

A Smart Investment for Efficiency, Space, and Sustainability

Switching to a tankless water heater can revolutionize the way you use hot water, offering benefits that extend beyond simple convenience. With an endless hot water supply, a compact design that frees up space, and the potential for energy savings, tankless water heaters offer an upgrade that can serve your home or business for years to come. The initial investment is easily offset by lower utility bills, improved functionality, and a reduced environmental footprint.

If you’re ready to make the switch, Super Brothers provides expert guidance and installation services to help you choose the right tankless system. From assessing your hot water needs to professional installation, our team is here to make your transition seamless and efficient. Contact us today to learn more about how a tankless water heater can transform your hot water experience and start saving you time, space, and money.