Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater: What's the Difference?

Tank water heater

A tank water heater stores and heats a fixed amount of water (30 to 80 gallons), providing a ready supply. While they are generally cheaper to purchase, they are less energy-efficient since they continually heat water, even when not in use. These heaters are more extensive and suitable for homes with moderate hot water needs.

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, offering continuous hot water without needing storage. They are energy-efficient and space-saving but come with a higher initial cost. These units are ideal for households with high hot water needs and can last twice as long as traditional water tanks.

When Should You Consider Tankless Water Heater Installation

Traditional water heaters store and constantly heat a large amount of water, which can be wasteful and expensive. On the other hand, tankless water heaters only heat water as needed, providing an endless supply of hot water while reducing energy costs.

You should consider tankless water heater installation for the following reasons:

• Your water heater is old or broken: If it is over 10 years old or has stopped working suddenly, it may be time for a replacement. Older units can be less efficient, leading to higher energy bills. A tankless water heater is a great replacement, providing hot water on demand without waiting for a tank to fill up. Plus, tankless models typically last longer than traditional units, often up to 20 years, saving you money in the long run.
• You’re running out of hot water: If you often run out of hot water during showers or laundry, your current system may not meet your household's needs. A tankless water heater offers a continuous hot water supply, simultaneously allowing multiple showers, laundry loads, or dishwashing.
• You want to save energy and money: Tankless water heaters are usually more energy-efficient than traditional ones. They heat water only as needed, so you're not paying to keep a tank hot 24/7. This efficiency can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time, making them a smart choice for cost-conscious homeowners.
• You want to save space: Traditional water heaters, due to their bulky tanks, can take up a lot of floor space, which can be a problem in smaller homes or apartments. A tankless water heater is much smaller and can be installed in various locations, such as closets, or mounted on walls, maximizing your living space.

Are you considering a water heater upgrade? If your unit is old and inefficient, or you're constantly running out of hot water, it might be time to switch to a tankless model. Enjoy endless hot water, save energy and money, and free up valuable space in your home. Contact us today to explore your options and find the perfect solution for your needs!

Understanding Water Flow Rates and Sizing Your Tankless Heater

Choosing the right tankless water heater requires understanding flow rates and properly sizing your unit. Flow rate is the volume of water (in gallons per minute) a heater can deliver, while sizing involves calculating household hot water needs to ensure adequate supply:

• Assess Household Hot Water Demand: Evaluate your household's water usage patterns. Identify peak times when demand is highest, such as during morning showers when everyone is preparing for the day or during meal preparation in the kitchen. Understanding these patterns will help you determine your overall hot water needs.
• Calculate Flow Rates of Fixtures: Next, take inventory of all fixtures in your home that may be used simultaneously, including sinks, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines. Measure the flow rates of each fixture in gallons per minute (GPM) and sum them up to estimate the maximum demand your tankless water heater must accommodate during peak usage.
• Determine Temperature Rise Requirement: It is essential to know the temperature rise needed for your water heater to function efficiently. To calculate this, subtract the incoming water temperature—typically around 50°F (10°C) in colder climates—from your desired output temperature, usually between 120°F and 140°F (49°C to 60°C). This will give your heater the required temperature rise to deliver hot water effectively.
• Select the Right Unit: Choose an appropriate tankless water heater after identifying your household's peak GPM needs and necessary temperature rise. Look for models that exceed your estimated GPM and temperature rise requirements. Consider energy efficiency, installation space, and warranty options to select a unit that will effectively serve your household for years.

Sizing a tankless water heater correctly ensures that your household always has enough hot water without stressing the system, enhancing efficiency and performance.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Requirements

Installing a tankless water heater has specific requirements to ensure efficient and safe operation. Here’s a quick breakdown of key considerations for a seamless setup:

• Adequate Ventilation: Gas tankless heaters require proper venting to safely expel exhaust gases, which prevents harmful fumes from accumulating indoors. To maintain safety and efficiency, it’s essential to ensure that the venting system is installed according to local building codes and manufacturer specifications.
• Sufficient Gas or Electric Supply: Before installation, check that your home’s gas line or electrical system can adequately support the new unit's energy demands. This may involve consulting with a professional to evaluate your current infrastructure and make any necessary upgrades to ensure optimal performance.
• Water Line Connections: Ensure the new tankless heater is compatible with your existing plumbing. This includes checking the diameter and materials of your water lines. If your current setup isn't compatible, you may need to update the plumbing to accommodate the new system, ensuring a seamless connection and efficient operation.
• Appropriate Wall Space: Although tankless units are typically smaller than traditional tanks, they require secure mounting space. This should be located near both the plumbing and power sources, providing easy access for maintenance and repairs. Consider the layout of your home to determine the best location for installation.
• Temperature Settings: One of the benefits of tankless heaters is the ability to customize the temperature settings to meet your household’s specific hot water needs. Take the time to adjust the settings for various fixtures, ensuring that everyone in your home can access hot water at their preferred temperature and maximize energy efficiency.

Meeting these requirements helps optimize your tankless water heater’s performance and lifespan, making professional assessment and installation invaluable.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Timeline

Installing a tankless water heater is generally faster than you might think, but the exact timeline depends on your property’s requirements and any necessary modifications. Here’s what to expect:

• Preparation and Assessment (1-2 hours): The process begins with a crucial initial assessment to determine the appropriate placement for the new unit. During this phase, technicians will evaluate existing gas or electric connections and assess the venting requirements, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
• Removal of Old Unit (1-3 hours): If an old water heater must be removed, this step may extend the overall timeframe by a few hours. The removal process involves disconnecting the existing unit from its water and power sources, safely draining residual water, and carefully extracting the old heater to avoid damaging surrounding areas.
• Installation of the New Unit (3-6 hours): Installing the new tankless heater is a detailed task that encompasses several key steps. Technicians will securely mount the heater in the designated location, ensuring it is level and stable. They will connect it to the existing water lines, tightening all fittings to prevent leaks. For gas models, special attention is given to installing proper venting for safe operation and efficient exhaust of gases.
• Testing and Final Adjustments (1-2 hours): The final step is essential to ensure the new unit operates as intended. Technicians will perform comprehensive testing, which includes checking temperature settings to confirm that hot water is delivered at the desired levels and conducting water flow tests to verify the system's efficiency. Any necessary adjustments will be made to optimize performance before the job is considered complete.

Most tankless installations can be completed in a single day, especially with a professional team that manages every step efficiently, keeping disruptions to a minimum.

Get Started - Your Trusted Partner in Tankless Water Heater Installation

When you’re ready to upgrade to a tankless water heater, Royal Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here for tankless water heater installation in Kaysville, UT. Our experienced team offers top-rated installation services backed by years of expertise and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Don’t wait—contact us to discuss your options, and let’s get you started on the path to endless hot water and energy savings.

Contact Us Today for Tankless Water Heater Installation in Kaysville, UT, and Surrounding Areas