A tankless water heater can supply an endless source of hot water.
A cold shower — especially on a frosty February morning — can be a rude awakening. If you’re tired of running out of hot water, a natural gas tankless water heater could be the solution.
A tankless water heater can supply an endless source of hot water with the added benefit of saving money on energy costs. How? A tankless water heater heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit where a gas burner heats the water. As a result, a tankless unit can deliver a constant supply of hot water on demand. There’s no waiting for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water.
A tankless water heater can supply an endless source of hot water with the added benefit of saving money on energy costs.
Is a tankless water heater right for you? Walton Gas residential advisors did some investigating to share the top 10 things you should know when considering whether to invest in one for your home.
Supplies unlimited hot water. Because it heats water as it flows through it, there is no limit on water storage. You can run the hot water as long as you want and never run out. So, there’s no worry about the person before you in the shower taking up all the hot water!
Saves energy. The U.S. Department of Energy has concluded a tankless heater is 8 to 34 percent (depending on the amount of how water used) more efficient than a conventional storage tank water heater.
Lasts longer. Tankless water heaters typically last up to 20 years, often twice as long as a typical tank-style unit.
Saves money — over time. The initial cost of a tankless water heater is greater than that of a conventional storage water heater, however it lasts longer and has lower operating and energy costs, which offset the higher purchase price. Typically, a tankless unit will pay for itself in about six years.
Takes up less space. Instead of having a large bulky tank that holds water, you have a small compact device. Tankless gas heaters are about the size of a carry-on suitcase and hang on the wall.
Leaks less. Because there’s no tank to fail and spill gallons of water, there’s almost no chance of a catastrophic leak. Plus, many units include wireless connectivity that tells you via a smart device when maintenance is needed.
Includes digital connectivity. Most quality tankless models can be monitored from a smart phone. This allows you to remotely adjust the temperature, monitor gas and hot-water usage and easily identify the source of a problem.
Costs more. The purchase price of a tankless water heater is typically more than that of a tank heater. Prices range from about $170 for small gas-fired units to more than $2,000 for high-output heaters that can supply two showers at the same time; $1,000 is about average.
Requires professional installation. This is definitely a job for a pro, as it involves making leak-free water, vent and gas connections. Locate a qualified professional for installation or call Atlanta Gas Light at (800) 599-3770 for assistance.
BONUS TIP
Earns a rebate. Walton Gas customers who convert from an electric water heater to a gas tankless unit can earn a $500 rebate from Atlanta Gas Light.
When you’re ready to update your water heater, consider a natural gas-fueled tankless unit — and never take a cold shower again.