The Magic of Instant Hot Water Systems – Never Wait Again!
The Magic of Instant Hot Water Systems – Never Wait Again!
Waiting for water to heat up can be extremely frustrating. You turn the tap, ready for a warm bath or to wash the dishes, but instead, you end up squandering both time and water. This issue is something that many homes experience. Instant hot water may be your solution!
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Instant hot water systems offer a solution. These devices heat water on demand, providing hot water right when needed. They are compact, consume less energy, and can help you save time and money.
This article provides details about instant hot water systems. We’ll examine the different types, their benefits, and important things to consider when choosing one. By the end, you’ll know how to pick the right system for your home.
Do you want to leave cold showers behind forever?
Benefits of Instant Hot Water Systems
Instant hot water systems offer quick comfort and save energy. They heat water on demand, reducing waste and cutting utility bills.
Immediate hot water access
Instant hot water systems provide hot water right when you need it. These systems heat water as it flows through, giving you endless hot water. There’s no need to wait for a tank to warm up.
This conserves time and reduces energy waste by not having to maintain a large water tank heated throughout the day.
Electric and gas models offer quick hot water access. These systems work well in homes and businesses. They provide hot showers without running out of hot water and require less space than traditional water heaters.
Energy efficiency
Instant hot water systems save energy by heating water only when needed. They also eliminate standby heat loss from storage tanks, which means lower utility bills and less energy waste. Electric tankless heaters, backed by ENERGY STAR, are especially efficient.
They use power only during active use, reducing overall energy demand.
These systems also help the environment. They decrease greenhouse gas emissions by lowering energy use, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious homeowners. The energy savings build up over time, making instant hot water systems a smart choice for your wallet and the planet.
Space-saving design
Instant hot water systems save space in homes and buildings. These compact units don’t need large storage tanks, freeing up room for other uses. You can install them in tight spots like closets or under sinks.
Their small size makes them perfect for apartments, tiny houses, or any place where space matters.
These systems hang on walls or fit in small cabinets. They heat water as needed, so they do not require a bulky tank. This design allows for more flexible placement options, and you gain extra floor space and storage areas in your home.
The sleek look of these units also adds a modern touch to any room.
Types of Instant Hot Water Systems
Instant hot water systems come in three main types. Each type offers unique benefits for different home setups and user needs.
Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Electric tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water without a storage tank. These units heat water as it flows through using electric coils, saving space and energy compared to traditional tanks.
Airthereal makes several models, ranging from 8 kW to 27 kW. Prices generally run around $119.99 for the 8 kW version and $284.99 for the 27 kW model.
These heaters are effective for residences with 240-volt electrical setups. Your hot water requirements determine the appropriate size. Bigger models can accommodate several taps or appliances concurrently.
Electric tankless heaters are easy to install and maintain. They also last longer than tank-style water heaters.
Gas Tankless Water Heaters
Gas tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water without a storage tank. These units heat water as it flows through, using natural gas or propane. They save space and can be more energy-efficient than traditional tanks.
But, these heaters emit twice as much unburnt methane as standard gas storage models. This matters because methane has 86 times more warming power than carbon dioxide over 20 years.
Despite their benefits, gas tankless heaters make up only 2% of U.S. gas water heater sales. Their higher upfront cost and installation needs may slow adoption. Users must also consider flow rate needs and gas line capacity.
Rinnai and Rheem make great gas instant hot water heaters, ranging from 7 gpm (gallons per minute) up to 11 gpm!
Although they can reduce energy consumption, their methane emissions pose concerns about their effect on the environment.
Point of Use Water Heaters
Point-of-use (POU) water heaters offer quick hot water access right where you need it. These compact units fit under sinks or in closets near fixtures. POU heaters store 2.5 to 20 gallons of water and heat it on demand.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, they cut energy use by up to 50% at each outlet.
POU systems cost $400 to $800 to install. They last 10-15 years for tank models and up to 25 years for tankless versions. These units save space and energy while giving instant hot water.
For homes with spread-out fixtures, POU heaters offer a smart solution.
Key Considerations When Choosing a System
Choosing the right instant hot water system depends on your needs and home setup. Learn about flow rates, energy sources, and installation requirements to make the best choice.
Flow rate needs
Flow rate is key when picking an instant hot water system. It measures how much hot water the unit can provide at once. Most homes need 2-5 gallons per minute (GPM). Showers use about 2.1 GPM, while dishwashers need 1.5 GPM.
Gas units offer higher flow rates, up to 5 GPM, than electric models at 2-5 GPM.
Your home’s size and habits affect flow rate needs. Large families or homes with multiple bathrooms require higher GPM. Consider peak usage times, like mornings when several people shower.
Match the system’s flow rate to your household’s demands for the best performance.
Energy source availability
Energy source availability is key in choosing an instant hot water system. Your home’s current setup affects your options. Homes with natural gas lines can use gas-powered units.
These often heat water faster than electric models. Homes without gas access may need to stick with electric systems. Some areas offer propane as an alternative fuel source.
Cost and efficiency matter, too. Electric units are often cheaper upfront but may cost more to run. Gas systems can be pricier to install but often have lower operating costs. Solar-powered options work well in sunny climates and can save money in the long term.
Fuel oil and geothermal energy are less common but might suit certain homes. Pick a system that matches your home’s energy sources and budget needs.
Installation requirements
Installing instant hot water systems requires care and skill. A qualified contractor should handle the job to meet local codes and safety rules. They will also inspect your house’s electricity supply, water force, and ventilation requirements.
Proper ventilation is key to removing exhaust gases from gas units. Electric models may need upgraded wiring to handle the high-power draw.
The installer will also pick the right spot for your unit. It should be near where you frequently use hot water, reducing delays and heat waste. They’ll connect water lines, install shut-off valves, and set up the control panel.
Routine maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently for a long time.
Summary
Instant hot water systems offer comfort and savings. They heat water on demand, cutting energy use and costs. These compact units fit in small spaces, making them great for any home.
Choose the right system based on your needs and energy source. With proper care, these systems provide years of reliable hot water service.
FAQs
1. What is an instant hot water system?
An instant hot water system, a tankless water heater, heats water on demand without storing it. It uses a heat exchanger to warm water quickly as it flows through the unit.
2. How do electric instant water heaters work?
Instant electric water heaters employ heating elements to heat water quickly. When you turn on a hot water faucet, the device draws in cold water, and the electric parts rapidly warm it up.
3. Are instant hot water systems energy-efficient?
Yes, instant hot water systems are energy-efficient. They only heat water when needed, reducing energy waste. This can lead to lower energy bills compared to traditional storage water heaters.
4. Can instant water heaters supply enough hot water for a whole house?
Larger instant water heaters can supply hot water for an entire home. The key is choosing a unit with enough British Thermal Units (BTUs) to meet your household’s peak demand.
5. Do instant hot water systems require special installation?
Installing an instant hot water system often requires a professional plumber. Depending on the model, these units may need upgraded electrical circuits or gas lines.
6. How do instant hot water dispensers differ from whole-house systems?
Instant hot water dispensers are small units typically installed under a sink. They provide hot water for drinking or cooking. Whole-house systems heat water for all fixtures, including showers and clothes washers.
9 Tips on How to Choose a Tankless Water Heater - Happy Hiller
So, you’re thinking about buying a tankless water heater for your home – but you have no idea where to start? Well, no worries because you’ve come to the right page! Tankless water heaters can help you save money and space – This is going to be your essential guide to choosing a tankless water heater for your home.
Are you interested in learning more about instant hot water heaters for showers? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Let’s go over the top 9 tips you need to know!
1. The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
Here are a couple of the benefits of having a tankless water heater in your home. These are things you should keep in mind while searching for your perfect water heart.
Taking Up Less Space
The way tankless water heaters produce instant how water for anything in your home. Instead of having a huge bulky tank that holds water for you, you have a small compact device that heats water as it flows through it.
Unlimited Hot Water
With this type of water heaters, there is no limit on your water storage. You can run the hot water as long as you want. You never have to worry about the person before you in the shower taking up all the hot water!
Long-Lasting
Tankless water heaters have double the lifespan compared to a normal water heater. The most standard can last you up to around 20 years.
Energy Bill
Having a quality tankless water heater installed in your home could potentially cut your energy bill in half! These units are super-efficient and can save you a ton of money.
2. Find Out What Size Will You Need
One of the first things you should do is find out exactly what size tankless water heater you will need. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average household in the United States typically uses 64 gallons of water every single day. Needless to say, that is a ton of water! So how do you figure out what size of a tankless water heater you’ll need?
There are quite a few different types and sizes of tankless water heaters. Instead of looking at capacity, aka there are 60 gallons in your normal water tank, you want to look at gallons per minute (GPM).
Tankless water heaters also use the Britsh Thermal Unit input to help determine efficiency ratings to go along with GPM.
So you will need to look at your household’s GPM, BTU’s, and your home’s temperature rise. Here is how to find that out –
Looking At BTU’s
A single BTU is equal to the same amount of energy that is required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree f. Thus the higher the BTU’s on your water heater, the higher your water flow will be.
When comparing your BTU’s and GPM’s, it typically will show that 31k BTUs can produce 1.2 GPM or 190k BTU’s can produce 5.7 GPM.
Calculating GPM
Look and see the number of devices in your home that will need to have hot water from the tankless water heater. Then determine how many of them you might use at any one time. Then simply add the GPM of all those devices.
For Example,
Flow rates for tankless water heaters will range from 1.2 to 6 GPM. Generally, a simple sink would be rated at 1.2 and a shower at 2.6 GPMs. So a tankless water heater at 4 GPMs could handle both a shower and sink at the same time.
Calculating Temperature
Find the temperature of the water that is entering your home and then subtract that from your desired hot water temp.
Once you’ve calculated this out and found the flow rate for a potential new tankless water heater, then you’ll know whether it will be able to handle the hot water demand in your household.
3. Take a Look at Warranties
You want to make sure you look over any warranties that may come with a new tankless water heater. Good quality heaters will come with an extended warranty that will keep you covered if it ever brakes down.
Keep in mind the type of water that flows into your home as well – If it’s hard water, it may cause wear and tear on your new device faster. If your water is hard, then you will want to find a tankless water heater that has a longer warranty.
Remember that this is a device that is essential to everyday life and you’ll be using every single day – so find a quality warranty that covers you for your new device!
4. Water Heater Efficiency
Tankless Water heaters can save you money with how efficient they are – they will always outperform normal water heaters. When looking at a tankless water heater, they use an energy rating (EF – Energy Factor) to master how efficient the device is.
EF Rating
The higher the EF rating, the best and more efficient the device will be. EF is determined by the amount of energy that is from your water heater and then divided by the energy that goes into the device.
5. Gas-Fueled Heaters
If you can use natural gas or propane, then having a gas tankless water heater is a great idea! These units give you the fastest response time and heat output.
Although you have instant heat at a quick response time, using a gas unit will typically take up more gas than your traditional water heaters. So remember to keep this in mind in case you choose one of these, you may need to bring in more gas to your home.
With gas units, you will also have an ignition, which will play a role in a few differences for these units. There are 3 different types to look at when purchasing one of these devices.
Power Ignition
These require no batteries or a connection to your electric system. They are activated when water starts to flow through your new device and a turbine.
Direct Ignition
With direct ignition, you will need to connect it to your electrical system or with batteries. This type is simply ignited as soon as the water starts to flow through the device.
Standard
Just like with traditional water heaters, a pilot light will continuously burn – This not needing to be connected to electric or detected any water flow.
6. Electric Water Heaters
Purchasing an electric tankless water heater can be much cheaper than a gas unit. Your typical electric heater can be found from 300 to 500 dollars cheaper than gas units.
They also tend to be more efficient and are environmentally friendly. However, the downfall here is that electric water heaters tend to take up more energy.
The electric ones also have a more simple design. So, when it comes to repair or maintenance, working with electric rather than gas can be easier and cheaper.
Another great thing about these types of units is that they release no exhaust gases. Since they don’t produce any exhaust they also require no venting.
Now that we’ve looked at the electric heaters, let’s take a look at the gas units.
7. Your Climate
Another thing to look at when choosing a tankless water heater for your home is the climate you live in. This can help you determine the right unit that is perfect for your household.
Depending on your climate, it can play a big effect on your GPM rating. As we discussed earlier, when determining the GPM rating, you look at how cold the water coming into your house is. The colder it is outside, the harder it will be to heat your water, which will then bring down your GPM.
This will also be different during each season, so you should look at the coldest month of the year for your specific climate and use that as your base for determining GPM.
Likewise, if you are in a warmer climate most of the year than having a higher GPM rating may not be your first priority. Instead, consider looking at an outdoor unit that can heat your water in that climate.
8. Venting a Tankless Water Heater
Another thing to consider when looking to buy a new tankless water heater is venting. Will you need to vent your unit?
Indoor Units
Not all units will need to be vented – In fact, only indoor gas-fueled tankless water heaters will need to vent. Because electric units don’t emit any exhaust fumes, you won’t have to worry about this.
Venting a gas unit isn’t like venting a traditional water heater. You should always consider hiring a trained professional to assist you with the water heater installation.
Just remember, if your unit will be outdoors than venting will not be required. Venting is only important when it is in a confined space and inside a building with people.
Outdoor Units
These types of units are designed to be outdoors and can handle the elements. Instead of trying to figure out how to vent an indoor into the outside, you no longer have too.
Although these are built to withstand the outdoor elements, they have their limitations. If you are in an area that regularly sees extremely low temperatures, it may be a better idea to find a different option.
A great benefit to this type of device is that they are much cheaper than your indoor devices and are easier to install.
9. Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance with tankless water heaters, this can vary depending on the type of unit that you went with. Let’s look at each one and the differences.
Maintenance For Electric Units
These tend to have very little maintenance. All you can do for these units is a simple cleaning of the water inlet. You should do this on a regular basis – Other than that, electric tankless water heaters require no maintenance.
Maintenance for Gas Fueled Units
Gas units require a bit more maintenance than electric units do. Rather than simple cleaning, these units will need to be inspected regularly. This should also be done by a reputable company that has trained professionals.
Ultimately when looking at tankless water heaters, determine whether you will want to deal with having to do maintenance and whether you would have to hire a professional to handle preventative maintenance for the unit. If you can perform the maintenance, then consider getting a gas-fueled unit, otherwise, it might be better to stick with an electric unit.
Wrapping Up Tankless Water Heaters
When you’re looking to buy a tankless water heater, there is a bunch to keep in mind and remember. This is a big decision, so take your time and make sure you do you’re researching on the unit before you purchase it.
- Think about why you’re purchasing a new one
- Find out the exact size you’ll need
- Check out the warranty for the unit
- Look at the efficiency rating for the unit
- Determine whether an electric or gas heating right for you
- Will you need to vent the unit
- Take into consideration the climate you live in
- Will the unit needs maintenance
- Can you perform the maintenance or will you need to hire a trained professional near you
After you’ve considered all of this, you’ll know the exact unit that is right for you home. Now all you have to do is purchase and install!
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