Also known as instant hot water systems, tankless hot water heaters have been around for a long time. They are popular in areas where space is at a premium, because there is no need to locate and install a large water storage tank. Another difference between these systems and a conventional storage tank unit is that water is heated only when it is needed, rather than over and over as with a conventional unit.
How a Tankless Water Heater Works
When a hot water faucet is opened, the flow of water triggers a control valve, which activates the unit. If the heater is powered by propane or natural gas, a burner unit will light. The burner will heat the water as it travels through a network of pipes inside the unit. These units must be vented to the outside, which may limit their application.
Another type of water heater uses electricity to power a heat exchanger. The water is heated as it flows through the water pipes that pass through the exchanger. Electric units do not need to be vented, so they can be installed in a greater number of situations.
The unit will continue to heat water as long as the faucet is open. The water will be heated to the temperature programmed into the unit’s thermostat. When the faucet is closed, the control valve will turn the system off.
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless units provide the same amount of hot water as a conventional system, maybe more, in the same amount of time. They save money over the long run as they do not expend energy to repeatedly heat water stored in a tank. In addition to taking up less space, they may also be safer, as there is no large tank of water that can cause damage to your Wetumpka, AL home should it crack or split open.
Installing a Tankless Unit
It may be necessary to reroute water supply lines when installing a tankless unit. The system also requires the installation of one or more 220-volt 40 to 60 amp circuit breakers. As a result, the installation of a tankless hot water heater should be done by a professional such as Air Conditioning by Luquire.
If you are interested in upgrading your hot water, contact our office. One of our highly trained service technicians will be glad to come by, explain your options and provide a free, no obligation quote.
