Tankless water heaters are growing in popularity here in Boulder, CO, and around the United States. Many homeowners have decided to make the switch after weighing all of the benefits these units offer. If you’re on the fence about a tankless system or decided to take the plunge, call the experts at Canyon Plumbing & Heating for help.
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What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
When you think about it, the way most households in the US heat water is wasteful and inefficient. Most people use traditional water heaters in which water fills up a 40-50 gallon tank where it’s heated; this process occurs 24/7 to ensure you have hot water whenever you need it.
However, it doesn’t always work. If you have a family, you’ve no doubt had someone use up all the hot water when you’re ready to shower or bathe. Also, as the system ages, sediment builds up inside, which reduces its efficiency and makes it more expensive to operate.
A tankless water heater solves all of these problems. Instead of filling up a tank and then heating the water, the system heats the water as you need it for as long as you need it. This method can save the average homeowner 20-50 percent on fuel costs than a tank-style heater. And, since there’s no tank, you don’t have to worry about sediment buildup or leaks.
For more information on how to get instant hot water in your home, call the pros at Canyon Plumbing & Heating today.
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
If you’re still not sure whether an on-demand water heater is right for you, consider the following benefits:
- Size: Federal regulations have caused tank-style water heaters to become larger to include thick insulation to increase their efficiency, which means you may not have adequate space for one. However, tankless water heaters are about the size of a suitcase and hang on the wall, leaving you plenty of room.
- Safety: Unlike a tank water heater, tankless systems won’t dump gallons of water onto your floor if they leak and don’t run the risk of explosion because of high pressures.
- Convenience: Imagine the convenience of having instant hot water for as long as you want without the fear of running out mid-shower.
- Cost: Although tankless water heaters cost more to purchase and install upfront, they end up saving money each month because they’re more efficient than their traditional counterparts.
An unseen water leak can cost you money in wasted water and property damage. Contact us for expert water leak detection and get repairs quickly.
How to Maintain a Tankless Water Heater
Like any appliance, you can keep your tankless water heater running smoothly and extend its lifespan if you perform routine maintenance. Here are a few things you can do to keep your on-demand water heater in top form.
If the water coming into your water heater is rich with minerals, it can degrade the system over time by causing scale buildup. Regular cleaning and descaling minimizes the effects of hard water and keeps your system running smoothly.
Besides routine descaling, you should also clean the system every 6 to 12 months by flushing it.
It’s possible to clean and flush the system by yourself, but you should have a professional inspect it at least once a year to ensure there are no problems and that everything is working as it should.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a tankless water heater work?
A tankless water heater, offered by Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe and into the unit, where it's heated by either a gas burner or an electric element, delivering a constant supply of hot water.
Do tankless water heaters require regular maintenance?
Yes, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to operate efficiently. Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, recommends annual servicing to remove mineral build-up, check for corrosion, and ensure the unit is functioning properly. This maintenance helps extend the lifespan and improve the efficiency of your tankless water heater.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my home?
The size of the tankless water heater you need for your home depends on your peak water usage and the temperature rise needed in Boulder, CO. Canyon Plumbing & Heating can help calculate your household's demand to recommend the appropriately sized unit, ensuring you have enough hot water while optimizing energy efficiency.
What are common problems with tankless water heaters?
Common problems with tankless water heaters include mineral buildup affecting performance, system overload from high demand, ignition or flame failure, and cold water sandwiches. In Boulder, CO, Canyon Plumbing & Heating can address these issues with professional maintenance and repair services, ensuring your system runs smoothly.
Are tankless water heaters more expensive to install than traditional water heaters?
Common problems with tankless water heaters include mineral buildup affecting performance, system overload from high demand, ignition or flame failure, and cold water sandwiches. In Boulder, CO, Canyon Plumbing & Heating can address these issues with professional maintenance and repair services, ensuring your system runs smoothly.
Can a tankless water heater be used to provide hot water to the entire house?
Yes, a tankless water heater can provide hot water for the entire house. Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, will help you choose the right size and model to meet your home's hot water needs efficiently, ensuring that you have a continuous supply of hot water for all your fixtures and appliances.
CanHow much does it cost to repair a tankless water heater?
The cost to repair a tankless water heater varies based on the issue and parts needed. In Boulder, CO, Canyon Plumbing & Heating offers competitive pricing and can provide a detailed estimate based on the specific problem. Regular maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and extend the unit's life.
Is it worth repairing an older tankless water heater, or should I replace it?
Whether to repair or replace an older tankless water heater depends on its condition, age, and repair costs. Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, can assess your heater's efficiency and potential repair costs versus the benefits of a new, more energy-efficient model to help you make an informed decision.
How can I prevent future problems with my tankless water heater?
To prevent future problems with your tankless water heater, Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, recommends annual maintenance, including descaling to remove mineral buildup and checking for parts needing replacement. Proper installation and adherence to manufacturer guidelines for use and care are also crucial for longevity and efficiency.
What should I do if my tankless water heater is making unusual noises?
If your tankless water heater is making unusual noises, it's important to address it promptly. Canyon Plumbing & Heating in Boulder, CO, suggests turning off the unit and contacting us for a professional inspection. Noises can indicate mineral buildup, a faulty element, or other issues requiring expert attention.
