Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional tank-style water heaters. While there are some clear benefits to using a tankless water heater, there are also some drawbacks that you should consider before making the switch. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of tankless water heaters to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

  • Energy efficiency: One of the biggest advantages of a tankless water heater is its energy efficiency. Traditional tank-style water heaters constantly heat and store water, even when it’s not being used. In contrast, tankless water heaters only heat water as it’s needed, which can lead to significant energy savings.
  • Space-saving: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional tank-style water heaters, which means they take up less space in your home. This is particularly useful if you live in a smaller home or apartment where space is at a premium.
  • Longevity: Tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan than traditional tank-style water heaters. While a tank-style water heater may last 10-15 years, a tankless water heater can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
  • On-demand hot water: With a tankless water heater, you’ll never run out of hot water. As soon as you turn on the faucet, the water heater will heat up the water on demand, which means you can take as long of a shower as you’d like without worrying about running out of hot water.

Cons:

  • Upfront cost: The biggest downside of tankless water heaters is their upfront cost. Tankless water heaters can cost two to three times more than traditional tank-style water heaters, which can be a significant investment.
  • Installation complexity: Installing a tankless water heater can be more complex than installing a traditional tank-style water heater. This is particularly true if you’re replacing a tank-style water heater with a tankless model, as you may need to make changes to your plumbing and electrical systems.
  • Limited water flow: While a tankless water heater can provide on-demand hot water, its flow rate may be limited. This means that if you’re running multiple appliances or fixtures that require hot water at the same time, you may experience a decrease in water pressure and temperature.
  • Maintenance requirements: While tankless water heaters require less maintenance than traditional tank-style water heaters, they still require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to operate efficiently. This can include flushing the system to remove mineral buildup and replacing the air filter.

In conclusion, tankless water heaters have many benefits, including energy efficiency, space-saving, and on-demand hot water. However, their upfront cost, installation complexity, limited water flow, and maintenance requirements should also be considered before making the switch. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with a professional plumber to determine whether a tankless water heater is right for your home.