5 Surprising Benefits of Installing an Electric Tankless Water Heater Today!
Installing an electric tankless water heater can be a life-changing experience! You’ll enjoy endless hot water on demand, save money on your energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint. Here are five compelling reasons to make the switch today:
- Unlimited Hot Water: No more cold showers or waiting for the water to heat up! Electric tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water, so you can enjoy a luxurious shower or fill up your bathtub whenever you want.
- Energy Savings: Tankless water heaters are much more efficient than traditional tank water heaters, saving you money on your utility bills. They only heat water when needed, so you’re not paying to keep a large tank of water hot all day long.
- Space Savings: Electric tankless water heaters are compact and can be mounted on the wall, saving valuable floor space in your home. This is especially beneficial in small apartments or homes with limited storage.
- Environmental Benefits: Tankless water heaters use less energy, which reduces your carbon footprint and helps protect the environment. They also don’t require a sacrificial anode rod, which can leach harmful chemicals into the water supply.
- Durability: Electric tankless water heaters are built to last, with an average lifespan of 20 years or more. This is significantly longer than traditional tank water heaters, which typically last around 10 years.
How to Install an Electric Tankless Water Heater
Installing an electric tankless water heater is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Choose the Right Unit: Select a tankless water heater that’s the right size for your home and hot water needs. Consider the number of people in your household, the size of your home, and the appliances that use hot water.
- Determine the Power Requirements: Electric tankless water heaters require a dedicated electrical circuit and sufficient amperage to operate. Check your home’s electrical panel and consult an electrician if necessary.
- Install the Water Lines: Connect the cold water inlet and hot water outlet pipes to the tankless water heater. Use flexible copper or PEX piping for easy installation.
- Mount the Unit: Securely mount the tankless water heater to the wall using the provided brackets. Ensure that the unit is level and stable.
- Connect the Electrical: Connect the electrical wires to the appropriate terminals on the tankless water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use caution when working with electricity.
- Test the Unit: Turn on the water supply and electrical power and check for any leaks. Adjust the temperature setting as desired.
Comparison Table: Electric Tankless Water Heaters vs. Competitors
| Feature | Electric Tankless | Gas Tankless | Solar Tankless |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Water Availability | On-demand | On-demand | Intermittent |
| Energy Efficiency | High | Medium | Low |
| Space Requirements | Compact | Compact | Large (requires storage tank) |
| Environmental Impact | Low | Medium | High |
| Durability | 20+ years | 10-15 years | 15-20 years |
| Cost | Moderate | High | High (initial investment) |
Conclusion
If you’re ready to upgrade your water heater, an electric tankless water heater is an excellent choice. With its endless hot water, energy savings, and environmental benefits, you’ll be able to enjoy a more comfortable and sustainable home.
Additional Tips:
- Consider installing a water softener to protect your tankless water heater from scale buildup.
- If you have hard water, flush your tankless water heater every 6-12 months to remove mineral deposits.
- Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of your tankless water heater. Contact a qualified technician for annual inspections and repairs.
Check Out Our Other Articles:
- [How to Install a Solar Water Heater]
- [The Ultimate Guide to Electric Water Heaters]
- [5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Tankless Water Heater]
FAQ about Electric Tankless Water Heaters
1. What is an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: An electric tankless water heater instantly heats water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank.
2. What are the benefits of an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Space-saving, energy efficiency, endless hot water, reduced energy bills, and longer lifespan.
3. What size electric tankless water heater do I need?
Answer: Determine your household’s peak flow rate (measured in gallons per minute) and choose a heater with a higher flow rate to ensure adequate hot water supply.
4. Where do I install an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Typically installed near a sink or shower, or in a basement, attic, or utility closet.
5. How do I install an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Follow these steps: Shut off power, drain water lines, remove old heater, mount new heater, connect water lines, connect electrical wires, and restore power.
6. What tools do I need to install an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Screwdriver, wrench, pliers, level, wire cutters, electrical tape, and caulk gun.
7. How do I connect the water lines to the electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Connect the cold water inlet to the inlet valve and the hot water outlet to the outlet valve using flexible water lines and clamps.
8. How do I connect the electrical wires to the electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Follow local electrical codes and connect the appropriate wires to the heater’s terminal block using wire nuts.
9. How do I bleed air from a new electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Open a hot water faucet to release any trapped air while the heater is running.
10. What maintenance is required for an electric tankless water heater?
Answer: Regular descaling to remove mineral buildup and occasional flushing to prevent sediment accumulation.
