Tanks Should Only Be for War

Jun 4

By John Scaggs

Note: Generative AI was used to improve this article. Human intelligence was used to shape, form, and fact-check the information.

Temporarily having a full house was good – but it came with a catch – running out of hot water. The hot water tank couldn’t meet demand as the house got older, which is normal. With as many bathrooms as we had, experts suggested we replace the single tank with two.

After doing the math, spending the difference, going “on-demand” for hot water, and eliminating the tank altogether made sense – or is it cents?

So, over a Saturday, we paid a professional to swap out the tank that had served us for nine years for a tankless on-demand heater. This move is not for everyone – but we have no regrets and are enjoying endless hot water – no matter how many folks are taking a shower at the same time! Our home has five full baths – before we count the kitchen sink, dishwasher, or washing machine. We sized a 199 BTU tankless unit. The old tank was gas, so we stayed with gas vs. going electric. There are many online charts and YouTube videos to learn more about the pros, cons, processes, and outcomes. I was able to go fully hobby-dad and geek out while learning the market, the players, the options, etc.

Modern units are reliable, dependable, and have overcome issues that past units used to have. There are many top brands to pick from, and thankfully the technology has leaped forward while the price has dropped over the years.

When it came to the work, four areas needed attention: removing the old tank, the amount of natural gas, the venting, and the mounting and connection process. Franklin Matz of A to Z Maintenance did an outstanding job. Most homeowners don’t want to be part of the process, but let me be his sidekick, even if I slowed him down a lot!

Besides hot water that doesn’t end, I’m surprised how much space we gained. It is like getting ½ a coat closet back! There are several other benefits, too.

Energy Efficiency – we are not heating water 7x24, just in case. We only use it on demand. We did set our system up to circulate and keep the water warm in the pipes. This makes it faster by about 30 seconds. We also were able to turn down the temperature of the water. If it doesn’t run out, we could run at least 15 degrees cooler.

Longer Lifespan – with proper maintenance, taking about 1 hour a year to clean up any building scale, the lifetime is expected to be 20 years vs. about 10 – perhaps 15. For a tank, I would not push the long side. If the tank itself fails, you will have a big mess on your hands.

While tankless water heaters have many benefits, it’s important to consider factors such as initial cost, installation requirements, and the size and layout of your home to determine if a tankless system is the right choice for you. This was all a plus in our case, and it works well. If you come over, I will resist the urge to take you to the utility room and show off our tankless water heater – unless you want to see it.

BACKGROUND – ChatGPT Tips and Ideas

Question: What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, provide several benefits over traditional tank-style water heaters. Here are some of the key advantages:

Energy Efficiency:

Reduced Energy Consumption: Tankless water heaters heat water only when it's needed, eliminating the standby energy losses associated with traditional tank heaters that continuously maintain a reservoir of hot water.
Lower Utility Bills: Because they are more efficient, tankless water heaters can lead to significant savings on energy bills over time.

Endless Hot Water:

Continuous Supply: As long as the demand does not exceed the unit's capacity, tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water. This is ideal for households with high hot water usage, such as multiple showers running simultaneously.

Space Savings:

Compact Size: Tankless units are much smaller than traditional tanks, making them ideal for homes with limited space. They can be mounted on walls or installed in small utility closets.

Longer Lifespan:

Durability: Tankless water heaters generally have a longer lifespan than traditional tank heaters. They can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance, compared to 10-15 years for tank heaters.

Environmental Benefits:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: By using less energy, tankless water heaters contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Material Savings: With no large tank to replace, there is less material waste when the unit reaches the end of its life.

Safety and Cleanliness:

Reduced Risk of Water Damage: Since tankless units don't store water, there is no risk of a tank rupture and subsequent flooding.
Cleaner Water: Traditional tanks can build up rust and scale over time, which can affect water quality. Tankless systems avoid this issue as water is heated on demand.

Precise Temperature Control:

Consistent Temperature: Tankless water heaters can provide more precise and consistent water temperature, which can enhance comfort and safety.

Potential for Energy Rebates and Incentives:

Government and Utility Rebates: Many local and federal programs offer rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient appliances, including tankless water heaters.

Switching from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless water heater involves several considerations and steps, making the process potentially complex but manageable with the right preparation. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Evaluation and Planning

Space Requirements: Tankless water heaters are smaller and can be wall-mounted, but they require specific clearances and ventilation.
Water Demand: Determine the flow rate needed for your household to ensure the tankless model meets your hot water needs.
Energy Source: Decide whether you will use a gas or electric tankless heater. Gas models typically require venting, while electric ones may need an electrical upgrade.

2. Installation Requirements

Plumbing Adjustments: The plumbing may need to be modified to connect to the new heater's inlet and outlet.
Gas Line Upgrades: If switching to a gas tankless heater, you might need a larger gas line due to higher BTU requirements.
Electrical Upgrade: Electric tankless heaters often require a dedicated circuit and higher voltage (e.g., 240V).
Venting: Gas tankless heaters require proper venting to expel exhaust gases. This might mean installing new vent pipes.

3. Professional Help

Hiring a Professional: Given the complexity, hiring a licensed plumber or HVAC technician is highly recommended. They can handle the gas or electrical work safely and ensure the installation meets local codes.

4. Costs

Initial Costs: Tankless water heaters are more expensive upfront than traditional tank models.
Installation Costs: The cost of installation can be significant due to the potential need for plumbing, electrical, and gas line modifications.
Long-Term Savings: Despite higher initial costs, tankless water heaters can save money in the long run due to their energy efficiency.

5. Permits and Codes

Permits: You may need a permit for the installation, particularly if gas or electrical work is involved.
Building Codes: Ensure the installation complies with local building codes and manufacturer guidelines.

Steps to Switch:

Assessment: Evaluate your current system and the feasibility of switching to a tankless heater.
Selection: Choose a tankless water heater that fits your home’s hot water needs.
Preparation: Plan for the necessary modifications to plumbing, gas lines, electrical systems, and venting.
Installation: Hire a professional to install the tankless water heater.
Inspection: Ensure the installation is inspected and approved as per local regulations.

Conclusion

While switching to a tankless water heater can be complex and potentially costly, it is feasible with proper planning and professional assistance. The long-term benefits, such as energy savings and continuous hot water supply, often outweigh the initial challenges and expenses.

Tech Corner

Amy Baker