Greetings to all the homeowners out there who are interested in saving money on their electricity bills! Are you tired of constantly paying high electricity costs due to your water heater? If so, a tankless water heater might be the perfect solution for you. One of the primary advantages of a tankless water heater is that it uses less energy than a traditional water heater. However, you might be wondering, just how much electricity does a tankless water heater use?
The Basics of a Tankless Water Heater
Before we dive into the electricity usage of tankless water heaters, let’s first discuss what they are and how they work. A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, is a device that heats water as it flows through the unit. Unlike traditional water heaters, which constantly heat and store water, tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed.
Although tankless water heaters are more expensive to install than traditional water heaters, they are more efficient and can save homeowners money in the long run. Let’s take a closer look at the electricity usage of a tankless water heater.
Electricity Usage of a Tankless Water Heater
The amount of electricity used by a tankless water heater depends on a few different factors: the flow rate of the water, the temperature of the incoming water, and the desired temperature of the outgoing water. Generally speaking, tankless water heaters use less electricity than traditional water heaters because they only heat water when it is needed.
According to the Department of Energy, the average household uses about 64 gallons of hot water per day, which equates to roughly 5,400 kWh per year. If a household were to switch from a traditional water heater to a tankless water heater, they could potentially reduce their electricity usage by 10-15%, resulting in a savings of about $100-$150 per year.
Flow Rate
The flow rate of a tankless water heater refers to the amount of hot water the unit can produce in a given amount of time. The higher the flow rate, the more electricity the unit will use. However, it’s important to note that tankless water heaters are designed to be more efficient than traditional water heaters, even at higher flow rates.
Some tankless water heaters have a flow rate of 3.5 gallons per minute, while others can produce up to 9 gallons per minute. If you are unsure of the ideal flow rate for your household, consult with a professional plumber or HVAC specialist.
Incoming Water Temperature
The temperature of the incoming water can also impact the amount of electricity used by a tankless water heater. If the incoming water is particularly cold, the unit will have to work harder to heat the water to the desired temperature. This will result in a higher electricity usage.
On the other hand, if the incoming water is relatively warm, the unit will use less energy to heat the water. Some tankless water heaters are designed to work more efficiently in colder climates, so be sure to do your research before purchasing a unit.
Temperature of Outgoing Water
The desired temperature of the outgoing water will also impact the amount of electricity used by a tankless water heater. The higher the desired temperature, the more electricity the unit will use to achieve that temperature. However, it’s important to note that the temperature of the outgoing water should not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and other safety issues.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Tankless Water Heater
Advantages
1. Energy Efficiency: As we discussed earlier, tankless water heaters use less electricity than traditional water heaters, resulting in lower energy costs for homeowners.
2. Space Saving: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional water heaters and can be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable floor space in your home.
3. Longevity: Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional water heaters, with an average lifespan of 20 years versus 10-15 years for traditional water heaters.
4. Continuous Hot Water: Because tankless water heaters heat water on demand, homeowners never have to worry about running out of hot water during a shower or other activity.
5. Lower Risk of Water Damage: Traditional water heaters are prone to leaks and other damage, which can lead to costly repairs and even water damage to your home. Tankless water heaters are less likely to experience these issues.
Disadvantages
1. Higher Upfront Cost: Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install than traditional water heaters.
2. Limited Flow Rate: The flow rate of a tankless water heater is limited by its size and capacity. If multiple people in your household are using hot water simultaneously, you may experience a drop in water pressure.
3. Additional Installation Costs: Tankless water heaters may require additional installation costs, such as upgraded gas lines or electrical wiring, to support their energy-efficient design.
Electricity Usage Comparison: Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters
To give you a better idea of the potential energy savings with a tankless water heater, let’s compare the electricity usage of a tankless water heater with a traditional water heater.
| Water Heater Type | Energy Usage (kWh/year) |
|---|---|
| Tankless Water Heater | 4,500 |
| Traditional Water Heater (Electric) | 6,456 |
| Traditional Water Heater (Gas) | 3,866 |
As you can see from the chart above, a tankless water heater uses significantly less energy than a traditional water heater – both electric and gas. This translates to lower electricity bills for homeowners over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does a tankless water heater work?
A tankless water heater heats water as it flows through the unit using heating elements or a gas burner. When a hot water tap is opened, cold water flows into the unit, and the heating element or burner warms the water to the desired temperature.
2. How much does a tankless water heater cost?
The cost of a tankless water heater varies depending on the size and capacity of the unit. On average, a tankless water heater can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 for the unit alone, not including installation costs.
3. How long do tankless water heaters last?
Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional water heaters, with an average lifespan of 20 years versus 10-15 years for traditional water heaters.
4. Can a tankless water heater supply enough hot water for multiple appliances at once?
The flow rate of a tankless water heater is limited by its size and capacity, so it may not be able to supply enough hot water for multiple appliances at once. If you have a large household with multiple people using hot water simultaneously, you may need to install multiple tankless water heaters or opt for a traditional water heater.
5. Do tankless water heaters require maintenance?
Yes, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly. This includes flushing the unit to remove mineral buildup and replacing worn parts as needed.
6. Are tankless water heaters environmentally friendly?
Yes, tankless water heaters are more environmentally friendly than traditional water heaters because they use less energy, resulting in lower carbon emissions.
7. Do tankless water heaters require special electrical or gas lines?
Yes, some tankless water heaters may require upgraded electrical or gas lines to support their energy-efficient design. Consult with a professional plumber or HVAC specialist to determine if your home meets the requirements for a tankless water heater.
8. Are tankless water heaters prone to leaks?
Tankless water heaters are less prone to leaks than traditional water heaters because they do not store water. However, they may still experience leaks or other damage over time, especially if they are not properly maintained.
9. Can a tankless water heater be installed outdoors?
Yes, some tankless water heaters are designed to be installed outdoors. This can be beneficial for homeowners who do not have enough indoor space to accommodate a traditional water heater.
10. How much can homeowners save on their electricity bill by switching to a tankless water heater?
The potential savings for homeowners varies depending on a few different factors, including their location, electricity rates, and water usage. However, homeowners can generally expect to save 10-15% on their electricity bill by switching to a tankless water heater.
11. How long does it take for a tankless water heater to heat up?
The time it takes for a tankless water heater to heat up varies depending on the flow rate and desired temperature of the outgoing water. However, in general, a tankless water heater can heat water in a matter of seconds.
12. Are tankless water heaters noisy?
No, tankless water heaters are generally not noisy. In fact, they may be quieter than traditional water heaters because they do not have a constant hum from heating and storing water.
13. What should homeowners consider before switching to a tankless water heater?
Before switching to a tankless water heater, homeowners should consider their hot water usage, the size and capacity of the unit, and the additional installation costs that may be required to support a tankless water heater. Consulting with a professional plumber or HVAC specialist can help ensure that homeowners make the right decision for their home and budget.
Conclusion: Switch to a Tankless Water Heater Today!
As we’ve seen, a tankless water heater is an excellent investment for homeowners who are looking to save money on their electricity bills. With lower energy usage, longer lifespans, and continuous hot water, a tankless water heater is a smart choice for any household.
By making the switch to a tankless water heater, homeowners can potentially save hundreds of dollars on their electricity bills each year. So what are you waiting for? Consult with a professional plumber or HVAC specialist today to see if a tankless water heater is right for your home.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Consult with a professional plumber or HVAC specialist before making any decisions about your water heater. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any damages or injuries that may occur as a result of the information presented here.
