Yes, it is possible to switch from a traditional tank-style water heater to a tankless one. Tankless water heaters are more efficient, take up less space, and can save you money on your energy bills.
In order to switch to a tankless water heater you will need to have a professional check your current plumbing system and wiring to determine if it is compatible. They will also need to evaluate if your home is capable of properly providing the necessary hot water flow and pressure.
To make sure the installation is done correctly and safely, it is best to hire a licensed and experienced professional for the job.
How much does it cost to convert a tank water heater to tankless?
The cost to convert a tank water heater to tankless can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the installation as well as the specific make and model of tankless water heater being installed.
Generally, tankless water heater installations can range between $800-$2,500 for labor and the cost of the unit. Depending on the complexity of the installation and the amount of additional upgrades required, such as extra venting and electrical work, the total cost of installation can range higher.
Other costs associated with installation include the cost of additional materials and supplies, such as 3- or 6-inch venting and special connectors, depending on the unit. Additionally, if there is a need to upgrade the home’s electrical wiring or adjust the water pipes leading to and from the unit, this can add to the cost.
Finally, tankless water heater installations typically require an initial start-up cost to flush the system and check for leaks and proper operation. The cost of this start-up service varies depending on the size of the system and can range between $100-$200.
What do you need to do to convert to a tankless water heater?
To convert to a tankless water heater, you will need to complete several steps:
1) Make sure you have the correct gas line sizing and correct gas pipe connections for the new heater. This will require you to call a local certified gas technician for assistance.
2) Shut off the power to the water heater and drain the old unit. Then remove the old tank, venting and combustion chamber, and any additional components.
3) Install the new tankless water heater, making sure your electrical and gas connections are secure and properly vented.
4) Finally, test the new heater and all of the connections to make sure it is working correctly.
If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any of the steps above, it is important to consult with a professional to ensure that the conversion to a tankless water heater is done correctly, safely and efficiently.
Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill?
Yes, tankless water heaters do increase your electric bill. While they require less energy to heat the water and are usually more efficient than traditional tank water heaters, their electric draw is often higher.
This is largely because they are designed to produce hot water on demand, which means they must constantly draw electricity when they’re in use. Tankless water heaters usually require high wattage and may use more energy than traditional ones, depending on the flow rate; the higher the rate, the more energy is consumed.
In addition, they typically have a minimum electric load (often 20 amps), which is more than standard water heaters. In some cases, upgrading an electric service might be necessary to accommodate this.
What size tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4?
The size of tankless water heater you will need for a family of four will depend on your hot water usage and preferences. Generally, a family of four would need between a 6-7. 5 GPM (gallons per minute) tankless water heater, depending on the flow rate for the showerheads, faucets and other fixtures in your home.
For example, if you have low-flow fixtures, you may be able to get away with a 6 GPM tankless water heater. However, if you have full flow fixtures and use a lot of hot water, it would be best to get a tankless water heater with a higher GPM rating.
Additionally, you should consider how far away the tankless water heater is to the fixtures it will be serving, as the farther the heater is, the more likely you are to need a higher GPM rating. It is also important to factor in the incoming water temperature in your area, as colder water temperatures will require a larger capacity tankless water heater in order to perform adequately.
Ultimately, you should consult with a licensed plumber who can advise you on the best size tankless water heater for your family of four based on a variety of different factors.
Is tankless cheaper than tank water heater?
Whether a tankless water heater is cheaper than a tank water heater depends on a variety of factors, such as the size of the home, the amount of hot water needed, the type of tankless water heater, and the energy efficiency of the models in question.
Tankless water heaters are typically more energy efficient than tank water heaters, and thus tend to be more cost effective over the long run. However, tankless water heaters generally require a higher initial investment than a tank water heater, as tankless water heaters are usually more expensive and require additional installation work.
The exact cost of a tankless water heater compared to a tank water heater will depend on the individual situation and the efficiency and size of the water heaters in question. For example, tankless water heaters that are rated for larger homes and high water demands will be more expensive than smaller models that are designed for lower water demand homes.
Meanwhile, the energy efficiency of the model will also influence the overall cost. Generally, electric tankless water heaters are more affordable to install than gas models, but they tend to be less efficient and more expensive to operate.
In addition to the type and size of water heater, other factors will also have an effect on the cost of tankless and tank water heaters. For example, the cost of installation and other fees associated with changing out a tank water heater for a tankless model will increase the overall cost.
Maintenance and repair costs may also be higher for tankless water heaters, due to their complexity.
Overall, while tankless water heaters may have a higher initial cost than tank water heaters, they are typically more energy efficient and have lower operational costs, resulting in long-term cost savings.
Homeowners should weigh all of the factors mentioned above in order to determine the most cost effective solution for their needs.
How many hours a day does a tankless water heater run?
Tankless water heaters do not run constantly but are typically activated by a flow switch when you turn on the hot water tap. Depending upon the size of the demand, tankless water heaters can provide hot water for up to three hours a day.
On average, however, most households use their tankless water heater for only a few minutes a day, so the heater wouldn’t be running for more than an hour or two a day. For larger households or homes with a higher demand, a tankless water heater may operate more frequently and could run up to three hours per day.
To keep the unit running efficiently and at the optimal temperature, however, it is important to use water-save features and set the temperature control on the heater to an appropriate setting for the needs of your household.
Will a tankless water heater lower my gas bill?
A tankless water heater can potentially help you lower your gas bill. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so you will only be using energy to heat water as you need it, instead of using energy to keep a tank of hot water constant.
If you use a lot of hot water and/or have a large family, you may end up using more energy overall, but this would still be less than a traditional tank model. Furthermore, many tankless water heaters come with energy efficiency ratings, so you can find one that fits your needs while shifting your energy consumption into a more efficient model.
While tankless water heaters are often more expensive when compared to tank models, the difference can be made up in gas bill reductions in the long run, making it a more cost effective option in the long run.
Is it worth it to go tankless?
When deciding whether or not it’s worth it to go tankless, the cost savings of switching to a tankless system should be taken into consideration. Going tankless is beneficial in helping to save energy and money on your monthly water bills.
Tankless water heaters can heat water on an as-needed basis, meaning they don’t continually run like traditional water heaters. This means that you won’t waste energy or money on heating and reheating the same water.
Tankless water heaters also use less energy, and when compared with traditional hot water systems, tankless systems can save up to 30% on your energy bill each year. Additionally, some tankless water heaters provide instant and on-demand hot water which can help to conserve water.
The cost and complexity of installation of a tankless system should also be taken into consideration. Tankless water heaters require a larger up-front investment than traditional hot water systems and generally require more complex installation.
Also, traditional hot water systems have a lifespan of about 10-15 years, while a tankless system is expected to last for about 20 years.
Overall, whether it’s worth it to go tankless depends on how cost conscious and how environmentally conscious you are. If you’re looking to save money on your energy bill or want to be more eco-friendly, then a tankless system may be worth the added cost of installation.
However, if cost is your primary concern, then a traditional hot water system may be the better option.
Does tankless increase home value?
Yes, installing a tankless water heater can potentially increase the value of your home. Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than traditional tank water heaters because they do not maintain a supply of hot water, instead heating water on demand when needed.
This allows for a lower monthly energy bill, as well as improved water quality and additional hot water compared to a conventional tank water heater. Additionally, tankless water heaters take up a fraction of the space that traditional tank water heaters occupy, allowing for more design flexibility.
The installation of a tankless water heater is a relatively simple process and can be an especially attractive selling point for potential homebuyers. Therefore, the act of installing a tankless water heater can increase the value of your home.
Can a tankless water heater be installed in an older home?
Yes, a tankless water heater can be installed in an older home. In most cases, the only requirement is that the home have access to an adequate power source. Your local plumber or contractor can evaluate the existing electrical wiring and determine if your home’s system can handle the electrical needs of a tankless water heater.
Depending on the age and condition of your home, you may need to upgrade your electrical system in order to accommodate the tankless water heater safely. In addition to power source considerations, there may be space requirements for the tankless water heater, as well as additional plumbing considerations, such as the installation of additional valves or piping.
You should consult with a local plumbing professional to ensure that all of the necessary requirements are met and that all installation is done safely and correctly.
Do tankless water heaters need to be flushed every year?
Yes, it is recommended that tankless water heaters should be flushed out every year, as doing so will help ensure the long-term health of the unit and keep it working efficiently. During the flushing process, all of the debris, minerals, and deposits that can build up over time are removed, which can prevent costly repairs down the road.
If you are recurring mineral build up in areas where you get your water, it is even more essential to flush the unit out to help with efficiency.
Tankless water heater maintenance is straightforward and can usually be done without calling in a professional. All you need to do is attach a specific hose and connect it to the drain connector of the water heater to flush out the water.
If your heater includes a pressure relief valve, press the valve down and leave it depressed as the flushing occurs. You should also check the temperature and pressure relief valve every other year for extra precaution.
Can bacteria grow in tankless water heater?
Yes, bacteria can grow in tankless water heaters because water heaters provide a moist, warm environment that is ideal for bacteria growth. Bacteria can form into colonies when left unchecked and create a biofilm that can affect local water quality, corrode the water heater, and even cause foul odors to come from the system.
Along with bacteria, other living organisms such as mold, algae, and protozoa can form in a tankless water heater. To keep bacteria from growing in a tankless water heater and the water lines, it is important to perform maintenance on the system and use a water heater additive to prevent the growth of unwanted organisms.
Regularly flushing out the water heater and checking the water heater temperature can help protect against bacteria growth to keep the system clean and safe.
Can you convert a tankless water heater from gas to electric?
Yes, you can convert a tankless water heater from gas to electric. Converting a tankless water heater requires knowledge of both electrical systems as well as plumbing. Gas tankless water heater conversions involve changing or replacing the gas burner and connecting the new electrical water heater in its place.
The existing gas vents may need to be modified to accommodate the new electric conversion. Also, the correct wiring and circuit breakers need to be installed or modified, and the electric service must be sufficient to operate the electric water heater.
This means 220 volts and potentially a licensed electrician. Finally, depending on local code regulations, an expansion tank may have to be installed to comply with government regulations.