Nothing ruins your day like running out of hot water. If your current water heater is not keeping up with your household’s needs, it might be time to install Denver Tankless Water Heater.
Tankless models don’t require storage tanks, but they do need a gas line and a power source. Read on to learn more about how they work.
A Tankless Water Heater costs more to install than a conventional tank model, but the higher purchase price is offset by energy savings and rebates from utility companies and governments. The cost of installation depends on the size and location of the system, whether it is gas or electric, and if there are any upgrades required for power, ventilation, or plumbing. Having a top-rated professional to handle the project is also essential. Labor makes up the majority of costs at $45 to $200 per hour, while materials make up the other half.
The tankless unit itself makes up 40% to 45% of the total project costs. The rest of the total project cost is for installation labor, supplies, and permits. If homeowners choose to install a condensing model, it can add another 50% to the initial cost of the water heater. Non-condensing units, which vent hot exhaust gases out a duct outside the home, are cheaper but have a greater environmental impact and lower energy efficiency ratings.
Some models include a built-in recirculation pump to provide instant hot water, which can reduce wait time from minutes to seconds. These pumps can be activated via a button, sensor, app, or voice-activated smart devices. They can be expensive to operate, however, consuming up to $50 worth of electricity per hour.
Gas and propane tankless water heaters have a higher initial price tag than electric models, but their high efficiency ratings qualify them for a $300 federal tax credit. Choosing a model that uses an alternative fuel, like natural gas or solar, can help cut upfront expenses by another $500.
Storage tank types have a lower initial cost than tankless varieties, but they have a shorter lifespan and require frequent maintenance and repairs. They also need to be refilled with fresh water regularly, which adds up to their overall cost.
Some homeowners opt for a hybrid or all-electric model, which can save on energy costs by heating water only when it is needed. However, this can result in a limited supply of hot water at any given time. If multiple people in the home are using showers and running laundry at the same time, it may take some time for the system to keep up with demand and resupply the hot water.
Limited Hot Water
During normal operation, a tankless water heater will heat only the amount of water needed to reach the set temperature. The amount of hot water available will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the temperature of the incoming water and the location of the heater.
When you turn on a tap, the flow sensor sends a signal to the heater to start heating water. This triggers the combustion process if you have a gas-fired unit, or a heating mechanism such as an electric element in an electric heater. The hot water is then delivered to the faucets. In a gas-fired unit, the burner ignites and burns fuel to heat the water, while a mixing valve tempers the superheated steam exiting the heat exchanger.
Once the desired temperature is reached, the unit shuts off the heating mechanism and any fans. The unit will then run in standby mode, waiting for a new demand. This can lead to some issues, such as low or intermittent water pressure, which may be caused by a leak at the heat exchanger or a problem with the thermostat.
It’s important to consult with a professional technician to make sure you’re getting the right tankless water heater for your needs. They can help you select a model that’s sized correctly for your home, based on the amount of hot water you’ll use each day. They can also ensure the system is installed in a suitable location and that it’s compatible with your existing plumbing and electrical systems.
Another issue can be cold water sandwiches. These occur when one person showers and then someone else turns on a faucet in the same room. The first showerer will have a few seconds or up to a minute of cold water while the second showerer waits for the heater to catch up.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to avoid these issues, such as installing a water softener or using a descaling solution. These will reduce the risk of calcium build-up inside the heat exchanger, extending its life and increasing its performance.
Power Outages
Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless models don’t have a storage tank. As such, they rely solely on electricity to operate. In the event of a power outage, these systems will stop working, leaving you without hot water for showering and cooking. However, there are a few solutions that can help with this problem. One option is to invest in a battery backup system. This is typically used with computers and will provide enough power to keep the water heater running for 20-40 minutes in an emergency.
Another option is to look into getting a natural gas tankless water heater with a built-in generator. These models will be able to supply you with hot water during a power outage, even if your entire house is without power. However, these units are expensive and require professional installation and maintenance.
It is also important to be mindful of how much hot water you use during a power outage. You can minimize your water usage by turning off non-essential appliances and using power-saving modes. This will help extend the duration of your backup system and save you money in the long run.
A power outage can damage your plumbing system by causing water pressure to drop. This can lead to leaks or frozen pipes. This is particularly true if you live in an area that experiences frequent power outages.
In some cases, a tankless water heater may experience problems after a power outage. It could stop working completely or start making strange noises. If this happens, it is important to check the circuit breaker to ensure it has not flipped to off. If the water heater is not resetting properly, it should be professionally repaired.
A Battery Backup System for a Tankless Water Heater can be a great solution to the issue of losing hot water during power outages. However, it is important to find the right model for your needs and consult a professional for proper installation. Additionally, it is a good idea to test your backup system regularly to ensure it is working properly.
Maintenance
A tankless water heater is a great investment for homeowners who want to save money on energy costs and have the convenience of never running out of hot water. However, just like any other appliance or system in the home, a tankless water heater requires routine maintenance to continue operating at peak efficiency. The good news is that routine maintenance is much cheaper than a costly repair bill.
There are a number of factors that can affect maintenance costs. For example, the type of materials needed can vary in price. Additionally, the cost of labor can also impact maintenance costs. For example, the labor rate for a plumber can change depending on their experience and location.
Regular maintenance includes flushing the water heater, which helps prevent sediment buildup. Sediment can clog the heat exchanger, which can affect the performance and lifespan of the water heater. In addition, flushing can help keep the water temperature consistent and reduce energy consumption.
Another common maintenance task is replacing the air filter. A clogged air filter can cause the water heater to overheat, which can lead to electrical and gas problems.
The water heater also needs to be descaled periodically. Although this process is less expensive than a full replacement, it is best left to professionals, as it can damage the heating element and other components.
It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended flushing schedule. Failure to do so may void the warranty and lead to increased costs.
Other regular maintenance tasks include checking for leaks and making sure the unit is functioning properly. Performing these tasks regularly can help catch any potential issues early, which can save homeowners a lot of time and money in the long run.
Taking the time to perform these maintenance tasks is essential for the longevity of a tankless water heater. The good news is that these costs can be significantly reduced with a maintenance plan. These plans can be purchased from established plumbing companies, which offer a variety of benefits, including discounted repairs and priority scheduling. To learn more about a tankless water heater maintenance plan, contact an expert from Moore Mechanical.