Are you in the market for a tankless water heater but don’t know whether to use a gas, electric, or hybrid system? You may be unsure what size and style suits your home or business. Or you could be figuring out how much it will cost to install one. When choosing the right tankless water heater for your home, there is certainly no shortage of factors worth considering before making an informed decision.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything from features and benefits, compatibility, best practices, and more – all designed to help give you peace of mind in finding the solution that’s just right for your needs.

With our expert insight, we have confidence that by the time you finish reading this article, you will have no doubt about which model works best for your lifestyle and wallet!

Understand The Different Types Of Tankless Water Heaters

• Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Electric tankless water heaters are one of the most popular types on the market. They provide a quick and energy-efficient solution for those who want to avoid the lengthy wait times associated with regular models. Electric versions can be suitable for small apartments, households with limited space, or anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much money on hot water.

• Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Gas tankless water heaters are a great option for larger households and businesses that need more hot water than an electric model can provide. Gas models often come with higher flow rates, so you can get your desired hot water temperature faster and more easily. The downside is that gas-powered units are typically more expensive to install and require an outdoor venting system – not ideal if you’re looking for a discreet installation.

• Hybrid Water Heaters

Finally, hybrid water heaters offer the best of both worlds; they provide the flexibility of a traditional hot water heater with the convenience and efficiency of a tankless model. Hybrid models are often the most expensive option. Still, they’ll save you money in the long run by providing a reliable and versatile hot water solution.

Determine Your Home’s Hot Water Needs

A crucial step while choosing the right tankless water heater for your home is determining your hot water needs. You need to consider both flow rate & temperature rise, as these will help you decide on the best size and type of water heater for your home or business.

• Flow Rate: The flow rate of a water heater is measured in gallons per minute (GPM) and should be based on the number of bathrooms, showers, and other plumbing fixtures in your home. A small tankless unit can typically handle 1-2 GPM, while a larger model can provide up to 6 GPM or more.

• Temperature Rise: Once you’ve determined the flow rate, you also need to consider the temperature rise. This is simply how much hotter the water needs to be when it returns from the heater compared to the temperature of the inlet water. Generally speaking, a temperature rise of 30-40 degrees is sufficient for most homes.

Installation Costs For Each Model

After you have determined your hot water needs, it’s time to consider the installation costs for each tankless model. 

• Electric models will usually be cheaper to install than gas versions, but this is relative to the size of your home and its existing plumbing setup. 

• Gas models are costlier because they require extra piping and venting systems and additional labor to ensure the job is done correctly. 

Make sure to research the installation costs associated with each type of tankless water heater before making a final decision.

Select A Unit With An Energy Star Rating For Maximum Energy Efficiency

Once you’ve narrowed your choices to a few models, it’s time to start looking for an energy-efficient water heater. The easiest way to do this is by checking for the Energy Star symbol on the product – this indicates that the appliance meets the highest standards set by the US government for energy efficiency and will save you money on your energy bills over time. 

Read customer reviews and compare prices from different retailers before purchasing your tankless water heater. Doing this will help you make an informed decision and get the best deal for your money.

Choose The Right Size For Your Home – We’re Here To Help

Choosing the right water heater is a complex process, and deciding which model or size is best for your home can be difficult. Thankfully, you don’t have to make this decision on your own.

At Proficient Plumbing Solutions, we provide professional advice and installation services tailored to meet your hot water needs. A team of experienced technicians will help you select the perfect tankless water heater and ensure it’s installed correctly and safely. 

With our expertise in the field, you can feel confident that your new tankless water heater will provide years of reliable hot water and energy savings.

Contact us today to get started. Let us provide a reliable, cost-effective hot water solution that meets your needs.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is The Downside Of A Tankless Water Heater?

The major downside of a tankless water heater is its higher upfront cost. They require more complex installation and often larger pipes for hot and cold water. Additionally, if your hot water needs exceed the capacity of the unit, you will need to purchase an additional tankless unit or install a whole-house water heater.

2. Is It Worth Getting A Tankless Water Heater?

Yes, in most cases, it is worth getting a tankless water heater. They are more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters. They will save you money on your energy bills over time. Furthermore, tankless water heaters are more compact and can save valuable space in your home.

3. What Is The Main Benefit Of A Tankless Water Heater?

The main benefit of a tankless water heater is its energy efficiency. Tankless models can save you up to 40% on energy bills compared to traditional storage tank models. Additionally, tankless water heaters produce an endless supply of hot water on demand. They can even be used for whole-home heating.

4. What Is Better, A Water Heater Or A Tankless One?

It really depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a more energy-efficient and space-saving option, then a tankless water heater is the better choice. Tankless models are also great for homes with high hot water demands, as they can provide an endless hot water supply on demand. However, if you are looking for a more cost-effective option, then a traditional storage-tank water heater may be the better choice.

5. Who Should Use A Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is a great choice for homeowners looking for a more energy-efficient and space-saving option. Additionally, tankless models are great for homes with high hot water demands as they can provide an endless supply of hot water.

6. Can You Drink Water From A Tankless Water Heater?

No, drinking water from a water heater is unsafe. Tankless water heaters can contain lead and other contaminants that are unsafe to ingest. Therefore, drinking water from a tankless water heater is not recommended.

7. How Long Can You Run A Tankless Water Heater?

Most tankless water heaters are designed to run continuously if properly sized for the home’s hot water needs. However, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how long a specific water heater can run before it needs to be shut off.

8. What Is The Lifespan Of A Tankless?

The water heater can vary depending on the make and model. Still, most are expected to last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Additionally, some tankless water heaters come with a manufacturer’s warranty of up to 10 years, so read the warranty information before purchasing.

9. What Is The Most Efficient Water Heater?

The most efficient water heater is a tankless model. Tankless models are typically more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank models as they only heat the water needed when needed. Additionally, tankless models can save you up to 40% on energy bills compared to traditional storage tanks.

10. Is Tankless Hot Water Unlimited?

Yes, a tankless hot water heater can provide an unlimited hot water supply. Unlike traditional storage tanks that need to be periodically refilled, tankless models provide an endless supply of hot water on demand. Additionally, tankless models can even be used for whole-home heating if your model is large enough.