HOW DO TANKLESS WATER HEATERS WORK?
Understanding How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners due to their energy efficiency and convenience. Unlike traditional water heaters, which store and continuously heat a large volume of water in a tank, tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it passes through a heat exchanger. This means that there is no standby heat loss, making them more efficient and cost-effective. In this article, we will discuss how tankless water heaters work.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water enters the tankless water heater and is immediately heated by the heat exchanger. Various materials such as copper, stainless steel, or ceramic can be used to make the heat exchanger. Gas tankless water heaters use a gas burner to heat the water, while electric tankless water heaters use electric coils.
As the water flows through the heat exchanger, it is heated to the desired temperature and then flows out of the unit and through the hot water pipe to the tap. The heating process stops when the hot water tap is turned off.
Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
One of the main benefits of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Because they only heat water as it is needed, there is no standby heat loss, which can account for up to 30% of a traditional water heater’s energy consumption. This means that tankless water heaters use less energy and can save homeowners money on their energy bills.
In addition to their energy efficiency, tankless water heaters are also more space-efficient than traditional water heaters. Because they do not have a large storage tank, they can be mounted on a wall or placed in a compact space, making them ideal for small homes or apartments.
Another benefit of tankless water heaters is their long lifespan. Traditional water heaters typically last between 8 and 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. This means that homeowners can save money in the long run by not having to replace their water heater as frequently.
Maintenance of Tankless Water Heaters
To keep a tankless water heater functioning properly, it is important to perform regular maintenance. This includes flushing the unit to remove any mineral buildup, which can reduce the efficiency of the unit over time. It is also important to have a professional plumber perform routine maintenance and inspections to ensure that the unit is functioning properly and to catch any potential problems early on.
Selecting the Best Tankless Water Heater
When deciding on a tankless water heater, it is essential to take into account various factors, such as the size of your household, your hot water usage, and your budget. A certified plumber can assist you in identifying the ideal size and type of unit for your particular needs.
Compared to traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters offer numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, space-saving, and a long-lasting lifespan. With regular upkeep and proper maintenance, a tankless water heater can provide hot water for your residence for several years. If you want to install a tankless water heater in your San Jose property, contact our team of experts for professional installation, repair, and maintenance services.
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