Traditional water heaters are constantly using energy to keep water heated, but when you need it, usually after the family has all taken long hot showers, there is no hot water left for you. You must wait for that emptied tank to reheat. Plus, on average, you will need to replace the tank in 8 to 12 years.
Tankless water heaters are efficient units that heat water as you use it, so you will not run out of hot water. It saves 27% to 50% of fuel costs over traditional tank heaters. They are more costly to purchase, so the savings in your pocket happens around the sixth year. A traditional tank water heater can spill gallons of water in your home if it fails and can harbor Legionella bacteria. A tankless water heater is a safer sealed unit so carbon monoxide can’t leak into your house.
Gas-burning tankless water heaters lifespan is usually 20 years, which is much longer than tank heaters. Tankless electric units have shorter life spans about 7 to 10 years. If you are interested in going green and no longer having to endure a surprise cold shower, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing for an installation or more information.