Getting Started on Purchasing the Best Tankless Water Heater: A Guide for Austin, TX Homeowners

If you live in Austin, TX and are interested in upgrading your home's hot water system, you may be considering the purchase of a tankless water heater. In this comprehensive guide, you'll quickly learn the advantages of tankless over traditional hot water heaters, the different types available, and tips on how to choose the most optimal option for your home.

The market for tankless water heaters has grown rapidly in recent years due to their ability to provide hot water on demand. Unlike traditional storage tank hot water heaters, tankless units heat water as it is needed, eliminating the need to store a large supply of hot water that can lose its heat.

Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater

The most significant advantage of having a tankless water heater is that it operates more efficiently than a storage tank. A tankless water heater only needs to heat water when it is needed, eliminating the need for storing a big tank of pre-heated water and waiting for it to cool. This means that you will have essentially continuous hot water available in your home, and that you will experience higher energy efficiency than with a storage tank heater.

Another advantage of tankless water heater technology is that there are more options. There are smaller, wall-mounted units that do not take up valuable floor space, and these can be installed closer to the source of the hot water demand. This means that tankless water heaters can even be installed outdoors, reducing the space needed for heating in the home.

Finally, tankless water heaters can last longer than traditional storage tanks due to their lack of rusting and deterioration. The average lifespan of a tankless water heater is typically around twenty years, while storage tanks tend to last only between ten and fifteen years.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters

There are two main types of tankless water heater available: electric and gas. Electric tankless water heaters heat water with electric-powered heating elements. Gas tankless water heaters use gas to heat the water, either natural gas or propane. Of the two types, gas models tend to be more efficient and have a higher water flow rate.

When choosing a tankless water heater, you should also consider the size of the unit and the water flow rate. A larger tankless water heater can handle higher demand for hot water, while a smaller unit is suitable for smaller homes with fewer people. The water flow rate of the unit should correspond to the size of the unit; a tankless water heater with a higher flow rate will be able to provide hot water to more devices at once.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater

Once you have narrowed down your choices to electric or gas-powered units, you should consider the following factors when deciding which tankless water heater is the best for your home:

Fuel source: If you're in an area without natural gas pipelines, a propane-fired tankless water heater may be your best choice. If you have access to natural gas, this will likely be your most cost-effective option.

Water flow rate: Consider the number of hot water outlets you plan to operate simultaneously and choose a unit that is large enough to meet your demands.

Installation: If you aren't familiar with plumbing, it may be best to hire a professional installer.

Energy efficiency ratings: Look for models with ratings from the Energy Star program for energy efficiency.

Warranties: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Different tankless water heater units can come with different warranty lengths.

Getting Professional Assistance for Tankless Water Heaters

If you are considering the installation of a tankless water heater in your Austin, TX home, it's important to find a reputable contractor who is familiar with the installation process. A professional will be able to provide guidance on the best type and size of tankless water heater for your home and give advice on the best installation location and fuel source.

If you need assistance with a tankless water heater installation, repair, or maintenance, look no further than Abacus Plumbing. Our professional technicians are highly trained and dedicated to providing the highest quality of customer service. We are experienced in all aspects of plumbing and are available to help you find the perfect tankless water heater for your home.

Tankless Water Heaters

Hot Water Heater

Austin TX