Tankless Water Heater Reviews 2021: A Comprehensive Guide to Endless Hot Water

Imagine this: you’re finally relaxing after a long day, ready to hop into a hot shower. But as you turn on the faucet, the water trickles out lukewarm, and you’re left shivering. This is a common problem with traditional tank water heaters, which have limited capacity and can run out of hot water during peak usage times. But there’s a solution: tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters.

Tankless water heaters heat water instantly as you need it, eliminating the need for a bulky storage tank. This means you’ll never run out of hot water again, and you’ll also save energy and money in the process. If you’re considering switching to a tankless water heater, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of tankless water heaters, providing you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Basics of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters work on the principle of “on-demand” heating. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows through a heat exchanger in the unit. The heat exchanger uses either gas or electricity to heat the water instantly, providing you with a continuous supply of hot water. Since the water is only heated when you need it, tankless water heaters are much more efficient than traditional tank water heaters.

There are two main types of tankless water heaters:

**Gas tankless water heaters:** These units use natural gas or propane to heat water. They are generally more efficient than electric tankless water heaters and are often the preferred choice for homes with access to natural gas.
**Electric tankless water heaters:** These units use electricity to heat water. They are typically more expensive to operate than gas tankless water heaters, but they are a good option for homes that don’t have access to natural gas.

Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters: Why You Should Consider Making the Switch

Tankless water heaters offer several advantages over traditional tank water heaters, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Endless Hot Water

The most significant advantage of a tankless water heater is its ability to provide a continuous supply of hot water. Unlike tank water heaters, which have a limited capacity, tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water, even during peak usage times. This is particularly beneficial for large families or households with multiple bathrooms.

2. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Tankless water heaters are incredibly energy efficient. Since they only heat water when you need it, there’s no wasted energy heating a large tank of water that may not be used. This can lead to significant energy savings, reducing your monthly utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can save you up to 34% on your water heating costs compared to traditional tank water heaters.

3. Longer Lifespan

Tankless water heaters typically have a much longer lifespan than traditional tank water heaters. While tank water heaters typically last about 8 to 12 years, tankless water heaters can last for 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

4. Smaller Footprint

Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional tank water heaters, making them ideal for homes with limited space. They can be easily mounted on a wall or placed in a small closet, freeing up valuable floor space. This can be especially beneficial if you have a small basement or utility room.

5. Reduced Water Waste

Tankless water heaters minimize water waste by eliminating the need to wait for hot water to reach the tap. When you turn on a hot water tap, you get instant hot water, reducing the amount of cold water that goes down the drain while you wait for the water to heat up.

Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters: What to Consider Before Buying

While tankless water heaters offer many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making a purchase. Some potential drawbacks include:

1. Higher Initial Cost

Tankless water heaters generally have a higher initial cost than traditional tank water heaters. The price of a tankless water heater can range from $800 to $3,000 or more, depending on the size, features, and type of unit. However, the long-term energy savings and increased lifespan can offset the higher initial cost over time.

2. Limited Flow Rate

Tankless water heaters have a limited flow rate, which means they can only produce a certain amount of hot water per minute. If you have multiple bathrooms or appliances that require a lot of hot water, you may need to choose a larger unit or multiple units to meet your needs. This can potentially increase the cost of the system.

3. Professional Installation

Tankless water heater installation requires the expertise of a qualified plumber. It’s not a DIY project, and improper installation can lead to safety hazards and void the warranty. The cost of professional installation can range from $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation and the location of the unit.

4. Can Be Affected by Water Hardness

Water hardness can affect the performance of tankless water heaters. Hard water contains minerals that can build up inside the unit, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. If you have hard water, you may need to install a water softener to protect your tankless water heater.

5. May Not Be Suitable for All Climates

Tankless water heaters can be less efficient in cold climates. If the incoming water temperature is too low, the unit may struggle to heat the water quickly enough. In these cases, you may need to consider a larger unit or a combination of a tankless water heater and a traditional tank water heater.

How to Choose the Right Tankless Water Heater for Your Home

Choosing the right tankless water heater for your home depends on several factors, including:

1. Size and Flow Rate

The size and flow rate of the unit determine how much hot water it can produce. Consider the number of bathrooms, showers, and appliances in your home, and choose a unit that can meet your hot water demands.

2. Energy Source

Choose between a gas or electric tankless water heater, depending on your energy preferences and the availability of natural gas in your home.

3. Water Hardness

If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to protect your tankless water heater from mineral buildup.

4. Climate

If you live in a cold climate, choose a unit with a higher flow rate or consider a combination of a tankless water heater and a traditional tank water heater.

5. Budget

Consider your budget and choose a unit that fits within your price range. Remember to factor in the cost of professional installation.

Top Tankless Water Heater Brands: Reviews and Comparisons

With so many tankless water heater brands on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best option for your needs. Here’s a look at some of the top brands in the industry, along with their strengths and weaknesses:

1. Rinnai

Rinnai is a leading manufacturer of tankless water heaters, known for its high-quality products and innovative features. Rinnai tankless water heaters are available in both gas and electric models and offer a wide range of flow rates to meet various hot water demands.

**Strengths:**

High efficiency and energy savings
Durable and reliable construction
Wide range of models and flow rates
Excellent customer support

**Weaknesses:**

Higher price point than some other brands

2. Navien

Navien is another reputable brand known for its innovative tankless water heaters. Navien units are known for their high efficiency, quiet operation, and advanced features, such as built-in recirculation pumps and remote control capabilities.