When considering the change to a tankless water heater, it is beneficial to know that many units come with a federal tax rebate of $300. These heaters never run out of hot water and are more efficient as there is no standby heat loss associated with usingand running this product. One of the major reasons they are so efficient is because they don’t have to heat large amounts of water to store for future use. This means they can save you up to 20% on your water heating bill each month. The water is heated as needed which means it saves energy as well as never runs out. Additionally, the heater can last on average 10 years longer than a traditional unit.
Traditional water heaters must store hot water over long periods of time, causing the water to lose heat. The hot water tank holds a finite amount of water and runs out when that water is used. A tankless water heater heats water as it is being used, therefore cutting out the need to hold large amounts of heated water. They also take up much less space than traditional heaters and can be installed outside.
Traditional water heaters can pose a danger to small children due to the need for the tank to hold large amounts of superheated water. The hot water within the tank then needs to be tempered with cold water immediately to prevent scalding. Tankless versions are set to a pleasant temperature of your choice making the need to add cold water unnecessary. Many have up to four different heat settings.
Another issue that can arise from a traditional water heater is the risk of contracting Legionnaires Disease. This disease is a type of pneumonia that infects the lungs. The average temperature in a traditional water heater is between 95-131 degrees which is the ideal temperature for the bacteria to grow. Tankless heaters are safer because they eliminate the need to store water at a high temperature.
When changing from a traditional water heater to a tankless water heater, there are a few things to consider. Most importantly, your home’s gas piping, gas meter, and gas line to the meter may not be sized appropriately to handle the high gas load that will be replacing the conventional tank water heater.
Additionally, most conventional tank water heaters vent exhaust differently than tankless, and though they are a fuel burning appliance, they do need power to operate. Before you decide to make the switch, it is important to seek expert advice on proper installation and use.
Original post: https://www.aaaheatingandcoolinginc.com/tankless-hot-water-heaters-are-safer/
