When you picture a water heater, you most likely imagine a very large tank that takes up space in a basement or another hidden area of the home. These traditional units are called storage tank water heaters because they store water in a large tank for later use. Storage tank water heaters stay on throughout the day, as a burner or an electric heating element must remain hot so that you can get hot water at any time. However, there’s a big problem with this as far as efficiency is concerned because you only really need hot water a handful of times throughout the day.
Tankless water heaters do not have this problem, known as “standby energy loss,” which means they can help you to save a lot of money over the years. Let’s take a look at the design of a tankless unit so you can decide whether to schedule tankless water heater installation in Deptford Township.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters were created to combat a couple of problems: 1) the amount of space storage tank water heaters take up and 2) the standby energy loss associated with traditional tanks. Instead of remaining on throughout the day, a tankless unit only activates once you turn on a hot water tap somewhere in your home. A computer alerts the system to turn on, and a burner or electric heating element heats up a heat exchanger. Water circulates through the heat exchanger and heads toward the faucet. The heat turns off as soon as you shut off the tap, which means you won’t have to pay for a system that stays hot all day long.
Is Tankless Right for My Home?
So if a tankless water heater is so efficient, how come every homeowner does not purchase one? Well, what works for one homeowner may not work for another. Tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional storage tank water heaters. The energy savings over time should make up for the initial cost, but it will take several years to do so. Many people prefer tankless units because they will not run out of hot water. However, it may take a bit longer for water to heat up. In general, it’s best to talk to a professional about your needs in order to decide which type is best for you.
Call SPS Mechanical Inc. to talk to a skilled technician about water heater installation in Deptford Township today.