Tankless Water Heaters
An unlimited supply of hot water sounds like a sweet deal; so do reduced water heating costs, instantaneous hot water on demand, and more space in the utility closet. These are all promises made by companies selling tankless water heaters. But does the technology really deliver?
Unlike traditional electric resistance or gas-fired water heaters, tankless models do not store hot water?they heat water only as it’s consumed. One or a series of heating elements within a tankless water heater are activated when a hot water faucet or valve is opened. The unit heats water until the faucet or valve gets closed.
‘Unlimited’ Hot Water?
A tankless system probably won’t meet the needs of a large family. Even the largest whole-house unit may not supply enough hot water for simultaneous, multiple uses. For example, such a unit may be able to supply only two showers simultaneously or perhaps one shower, a dishwasher, and a sink. If users demand too much water, temperatures will drop.
In addition, water temperature depends on the volume coming out of a faucet. If you turn on the faucet only a trickle, water runs cold. If you open the faucet further, you will trigger hot water—the hottest possible. If you open the faucet to maximum, the temperature will drop back. If you open more than one faucet, temperatures will drop more.
SPACE ADVANTAGE
Generally, tankless water heaters do not require a lot of space. A large unit can fit in an area no larger than 24 inches square, and extend from the wall about 8–10 inches.
HIDDEN COSTS
Tankless water heaters require an upgrade in electrical service. For example, a traditional tank water heater with 4,500-watt elements operates on #10 wire and a 30-amp circuit breaker. One whole-house tankless model has four 7,000-watt elements for a total electrical load of 28,000 watts. This requires wire and a circuit breaker that will handle at least 120 amps.
If a tankless water heater is installed in an existing home without upgrading the electrical service, low voltage or sudden voltage drops are likely. This will cause dimming lights, blinking lights, and other problems.
The extra load also necessitates a larger and more expensive meter loop and main breaker panel for the house. In some cases, consumers also must pay for new wiring between the distribution transformer and electric meter. Check with a licensed electrician or your local electric co-op to determine if you must improve your electric service connections to support a tankless water heater.
While gas-fired tankless water heaters generally do not need basic service upgrades, the same considerations must be made when determining how many hot water faucets will be turned on at any given time and how far away the tankless heater remains from sinks and showers.
Consumers looking for an efficient water heater should consider a heavily insulated electric resistance unit. These appliances are often the most
cost-effective option over the long term. Source: NRECA