Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater
A whole house electric tankless water heater is a great option for families. These units have high GPM flow rate capacities and heat water instantly when demanded — saving energy.
They’re easy to size for a household and run virtually silently. However, choosing the right model is a big decision. Expert tips can help ensure a successful installation for optimal performance and energy savings.
Cost
The cost of a whole house electric tankless water heater varies based on several factors. The unit itself costs between $500 and $2,300, depending on fuel type (electric, gas, or propane), brand, features, and capacity. It’s important to note that the initial purchase price will likely be offset by long-term energy savings and efficiency benefits.
The installation process can add an additional $500 to the total cost of the system. This will depend on the complexity of the plumbing and electrical work, if any structural modifications are required, and whether or not permits are needed for the project. electric instant hot water heater The labor cost may also vary based on whether or not the existing water heater is being removed, the fuel type, and whether or not a condensing vs non-condensing unit is installed.
Point-of-use tankless water heaters are less expensive than whole-house units and are designed to supply hot water to a single outlet at a time. Typically, they’re installed below sinks or near showers. Whole-house tankless water heaters are more expensive, but have higher GPM flow rate capacity and can heat water to multiple outlets at once.
In addition to the upfront purchase and installation costs, homeowners should consider yearly operating costs when choosing a tankless water heater. It’s recommended to choose a professional to install the unit, as it will require leak-free water, gas, and vent connections; an upgrade of the circuit-breaker panel in the case of a gas model; or additional electrical wiring in the case of an electric unit. A professional can help you estimate these costs and plan for any potential maintenance needs in advance.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the key benefits of upgrading to a whole house electric tankless water heater. These units heat water only when it is needed – so you won’t waste electricity heating 40 to 50 gallons of hot water that will only be used once or twice per day. This can save a typical household $100 or more per year.
However, the energy efficiency of an on-demand water heater can depend on its size and type as well as local utility costs. Gas-powered units typically cost less to operate than electric models, but they also require regular maintenance like periodic flushing to remove hard-water deposits that can build up over time.
With an electric model, a heat exchanger is used to heat the water when a hot-water faucet is turned on. This system will run until the flow sensor detects that the hot-water demand has been met, at which point the unit turns off. Some models can even be set up to run in a “demand-shutoff mode” where the heat exchanger is switched off after a fixed amount of time or number of showers, to help minimize energy use when you’re not using your water heater.
If you’re considering a whole house electric tankless water heater, check out the Energy Star rating to find the best models on the market. You may also want to ask your electricity provider if they offer gas or electric tankless water heaters as part of their product lineup. Major Energy is a reliable energy supplier in the Northeast and Midwest.
Installation
During the installation process, a plumber will ensure that all connections are secure and water leaks are avoided. They will also check for any existing venting, making sure it is in good condition and properly sealed. If they are installing a gas tankless heater, they will need to check that the location is compatible with the home’s existing gas supply lines.
The next step is to determine whether a whole-house or point-of-use model is best for your needs. electric water heater Point-of-use units are smaller and designed to heat water for a single outlet at a time. They are typically installed under sinks or near showers. They can also be used to heat water for laundry machines. These units require less energy than whole-house models.
A whole-house tankless water heater is more expensive to install and may require a larger gas line. It can also have a lower water flow rate. However, it will save you money on energy costs in the long run. In addition, it is important to consider the climate in your area when selecting a heater. Colder climates have significantly colder groundwater, requiring the heater to work harder to produce hot water. In this case, you will need a much larger heater than if you lived in a warmer area. It is also important to consider your family’s water usage.
Maintenance
Getting regular maintenance on your tankless water heater is one of the most important things you can do to extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently. Getting your unit serviced yearly can also save you money in the long run, as it will help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your system is working properly.
If your tankless water heater is starting to show signs of age, such as taking longer to heat up or displaying error codes, it is time for an inspection and possible professional repairs. These symptoms could indicate that key components are beginning to wear out, which may lead to a premature unit failure.
A routine tankless water heater flush can remove the mineral deposits that build up inside your unit, which will improve its efficiency and extend its life. You should perform this task at least once a year, and more frequently in regions with hard water. To flush the unit, shut off the gas line or, if it is electric, turn off the circuit breaker. Then, disconnect the water valves and use a pump with a 1/6 horsepower to drain the unit.
You should also inspect the external pipes connected to your unit on a routine basis to spot any signs of leaks or rust. Leaking pipes can cause water damage in your home, so they need to be repaired as soon as possible.