Electric tankless water heaters have gained popularity over the years, touted as energy-efficient, space-saving alternatives to traditional tank water heaters. These compact devices heat water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank and promising reduced energy bills and a continuous supply of hot water. But with so many options available, a common question arises: Are any electric tankless water heaters actually effective?
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the effectiveness of electric tankless water heaters, exploring how they work, the pros and cons, and whether they live up to the claims.
How Do Electric Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Electric tankless water heaters function by heating water as it passes through the unit, rather than storing a large volume of hot water in a tank. When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water flows through the heater and is rapidly heated by electric coils. Once the water reaches the desired temperature, it flows to your faucets or appliances.
The key feature of electric tankless systems is their ability to heat water on demand, which means no energy is wasted in keeping a tank of water hot at all times.
Advantages of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the main selling points of electric tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Traditional water heaters constantly maintain a large tank of hot water, which means energy is used even when you’re not actively using hot water. In contrast, tankless heaters only consume electricity when hot water is needed, eliminating standby heat loss. This can lead to noticeable reductions in energy bills.
2. Space-Saving Design
Because tankless water heaters don’t require a bulky storage tank, they’re much smaller and more compact than traditional units. This makes them ideal for homes with limited space, such as apartments or homes with small utility rooms. You can even mount them on a wall, freeing up floor space.
3. Endless Hot Water
Electric tankless systems provide hot water on demand, meaning you won’t run out of hot water during a shower or while doing laundry. This is a significant advantage over traditional tank water heaters, which can run out of hot water after several consecutive uses.
4. Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters tend to have longer lifespans than traditional tank models. While a tank water heater might last around 10-15 years, a well-maintained electric tankless heater can last 20 years or more. The absence of a tank reduces the risk of rust and corrosion, which can shorten the lifespan of traditional models.
Potential Drawbacks of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
While electric tankless water heaters offer several benefits, they do have some drawbacks that can affect their overall effectiveness:
1. Limited Flow Rate
Electric tankless water heaters are typically better suited for smaller households or situations where hot water is needed in only one or two places at a time. They may struggle to keep up with simultaneous high-demand activities, such as running a dishwasher and taking a shower at the same time. The flow rate of electric models is limited compared to gas-powered units, which can supply more hot water at a higher flow rate.
If you live in a larger household with multiple bathrooms, or if you frequently use hot water in several places at once, you may need to install multiple units or choose a gas-powered option for better performance.
2. Inconsistent Water Temperature
Some users report inconsistent water temperatures with electric tankless water heaters, especially when the flow rate is high or if there are sudden changes in water usage. For example, if someone in the house turns on a faucet or shower, it can cause a fluctuation in the temperature of the water coming from the tankless heater. However, newer models have improved technology to maintain more stable temperatures.
3. Installation Costs and Complexity
While electric tankless water heaters can save money over time through energy efficiency, the initial installation costs can be high. These systems often require upgrades to your electrical system, as they need a dedicated circuit with a high voltage to operate efficiently. Professional installation is a must, which can add to the overall cost.
How Effective Are Electric Tankless Water Heaters?
When it comes to effectiveness, electric tankless water heaters can be highly efficient, especially for small to medium-sized homes or situations where hot water is used in moderation. They excel at providing on-demand hot water, reducing energy costs, and saving space. However, they may not be the best option for larger households or homes with high hot water demand at peak times.
The overall effectiveness of an electric tankless water heater largely depends on the following factors:
- Household size: Smaller households or individuals may find an electric tankless water heater to be a perfect fit, while larger families may need a more powerful system or consider multiple units.
- Water usage: If your household uses hot water in multiple places at once, such as several showers or appliances running simultaneously, a gas-powered system or a higher-capacity electric unit may be necessary.
- Model quality: The technology and design of the tankless unit matter. Newer, higher-end models tend to perform better in terms of temperature regulation and flow rate. Be sure to choose a unit that matches your specific needs.
Are Electric Tankless Water Heaters Worth It?
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient, space-saving solution for your hot water needs, an electric tankless water heater can certainly be effective—provided it’s the right fit for your household’s usage and plumbing setup. For smaller households with low to moderate water demands, these units can provide endless hot water, reduce energy consumption, and offer long-term savings.
However, if your household requires a high flow rate, or if you frequently use hot water in multiple locations at the same time, you may want to explore other options, such as a larger-capacity unit or a gas-powered model.
Ultimately, electric tankless water heaters are a great choice for many, but like any home improvement, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs before making a decision. If properly installed and maintained, an electric tankless water heater can prove to be an effective and long-lasting solution for your hot water needs.