Tankless Electric Water Heaters: A Buyer’s Guide.

Is a tankless electric water heater for you?

What is a Tankless Electric Water Heater

Tankless electric water heaters take much less space than storage type as water was heated directly. When you turn on the hot water, cold water travels into the tankless water heater where it is heated by electric heating element. This allows you a constant supply of hot water.

For those large families who using a lot of hot water, install more than 1 heater is common. This will ensure non-stop hot water for showers, laundry and the dishwasher.

Advantages

Tankless electric water heaters (also called “on demand” units or an instant electric water heater) use 30 to 50% less electricity than tank type, saving about $100 or more per year, depending on water usage.

· Water was heated only when you turn on the faucet.

· The main advantage is that they eliminate the extra cost of keeping big volume of hot water in a storage tank, so you waste less energy.

· Continuously hot water supply, which is ideal for filling a big hot tub.

· Much more compact than a standard water heater and mount on a wall.

Electric vs Gas Tankless Water Heaters

The biggest difference between electric type and gas type is their efficiency. Electric tankless water heaters are typically around 98% or more efficient while gas type is around 80-85% efficient.

Tankless water heaters will free up space that a bulky water heater typically occupies.

The Bottom Line: Pricing and Installation

When you’re pricing a unit, be sure to get an estimate or firm bid on installation costs. This is not a do-it yourself project unless you have pro-level skills. You can contact us (JNOD) for more professional instructions.

Figure A: Tankless Water Heater Details

When a hot water tap is opened, the heating elements turn on. Water is heated as it flows through the heating element.