Important Questions To Ask Before Choosing An Electric Tankless Water Heater

By Staff Reporter - 13 Sep '19 15:04PM
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Before you choose an electric tankless water heater, you may have some important questions. Find the answers you need below!

Electric Tankless Water Heater FAQ's

Electric vs gas tankless water heater: which is better?

While both types offer significant advantages over a hot water tank, an electric tankless water heater is the most direct solution for hot water on demand. 

GasTankless Water Heater

Electric Tankless Water Heater

  • Requires special ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Doesn't require special ventilation or remodelling
  • Avg installation cost of $5000
  • Avg installation cost of $1100
  • 80 - 85% Efficiency Rating
  • Avg 98+% Efficiency Rating
  • Burns fossil fuels
  • No fossil fuels

Check out these in-depth reviews to find the best electric tankless water heater for your needs.

How long does an electric tankless water heater last?

The average electric on demand water heater has a lifespan of 10 - 15 years. By comparison, the average hot water tank has a lifespan of 8 - 10 years

If you plan to live in your home for more than 10 years, an electric tankless water heater you'll be more than covered. Should you sell your home, the inclusion of a tankless water heater will add further value and appeal due the energy savings and space considerations. 

Is an electric tankless water heater expensive and difficult to install?

The typical electrical tankless water heater costs an average $450, significantly cheaper than a hot water tank. An electric tankless water heater is also more compact and includes instructions for self-installation. They can be wall-mounted or installed at the point of use inlet.

Whole house units may require electrical rewiring to your home. If you don't feel confident in your handy skills, you can hire a professional plumber to install your water heater properly. Depending on labor, parts, and your location, the average cost of installation is approximately $2000. 

Whole House Or Point Of Use?

Large households with 2.5 or more bathrooms can benefit from a point of use electric tankless water heater. A point of use water heater is extremely compact and can be installed directly at the point of use in your home - ie kitchen sink, bathroom or shower faucet. 

Once installed, you'll have hot water on demand even when multiple devices or faucets are in use. You can run the dishwasher and take a hot shower without loss of hot water.

As mentioned earlier, whole house water heaters require professional installation, while a smaller, point-of-use unit can be installed relatively easily if you have basic plumbing experience. The top brands include detailed instructions for installation as well as reliable customer support to help you troubleshoot.

How much money can I save on my energy bill with an electric tankless water heater?

An electric tankless water heater at each point of use in your home could reduce your energy consumption by 24 - 50%.

Will I Need An Upgrade to my electrical panel?

While many of today's top brands are highly energy efficient, your electric tankless may require an upgrade to your electrical panel. 

The average tankless water heater requires 120 amps to run sufficiently at say, 5 - 6 GPM's. That means, for instance, that you can still enjoy hot water on demand while washing dishes and running a bath without loss of hot water.

On the other hand, most homes are configured for a maximum of 200 amps. This leaves little room for  operating other household appliances when your water heater is running. 

To be on the safe side, it's advisable to upgrade your electrical panel for a higher amp output. An upgrade will increase the amp output of your panel to accommodate the simultaneous use of your electric water heater and other appliances.

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* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of newseveryday.com

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