In a previous post, we covered a few basics about water heating tanks. Let's talk a minute about the options for heating your water. Currently in our area, there are two main devices: the traditional tank and a tankless system. Both can serve you well, but here are some details that may help you decide which one you want in your home:
- A traditional water heating tank constantly maintains a tank full of hot water (unless it's on a timer). If use should out-run the capacity of the tank and the rate at which it can heat more, cold water will eventually be received at the faucet.
- A tankless system flash-heats water as the water flies through the pipe which makes this system "endless" (short of a unit failure). As long as water flows through, the unit will heat it.
- A circulating pump on either system can put hot water only seconds from your faucet by continuously running hot water through a loop that has been installed in your home's pipes (like a hotel).
- Without a circulating pump, neither system produces instant hot water at the faucet, however, one can install several small tankless systems (one at each faucet) and have nearly instant hot water at the faucet.
- If the power goes out, you may still have a tank full of hot/warm water. Tankless units should be checked for their ability to run without power (in cases of gas or propane).
- Tankless units are generally smaller and require less installation space, however, they can be more costly to repair.
- When considering a tankless system, ensure the unit's ability to heat water can keep up with your family's demands and use while maintaining a high flow rate of water.
There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting your home's water heating system If I may be of any assistance along the way, please let me know and I'll be happy to help.
