Use an On Demand Water Heater for Energy and Water Storage Savings
If you live in a typical home with a traditional water heating system, you can run out of hot water when demand runs high. In that situation, you have to wait for the water to reheat, and that can take up to one hour. Unlike the conventional water heater, an on demand water heater will deliver an endless supply of hot water whenever you need it. It’s no wonder that more and more families are switching to this water heating system.
What makes an on demand system different? The conventional water heater holds a tank of water and heats it when it is needed. Once used, more water has to be added to the tank and heated for future use. The on demand water heater, also known as an instantaneous, point of use or tankless water heater, consists of a compact unit that attaches to a gas burner or electrical element on one end and to water pipes on the other end. Water is heated as it flows through the pipes. Hot water flows out instantly when you open the hot water tap. Besides providing an endless supply of hot water, this type of heater also saves on storage space, heating costs and energy loss.
The benefits of an on demand water heater can lend to one drawback. If your hot water demand is very high, it may exceed the capacity of the heater to provide that much water. This type of heater will supply about 2-5 gallons per minute of hot water. Using a gas unit will be more efficient than an electric one, but you will probably find that you need to install a second unit.
The Rheems EcoSense Electric On Demand Water Heater has a compact energy-efficient design and precise temperature control. This direct vent indoor gas heater costs approximately $1,000. Paloma’s Whole Home Natural Gas Outdoor Heater is similarly priced. It is remote controlled and requires no venting. Both products are sold at The Home Depot.
PowerStar’s Electric Heater is designed for warmer climates and sells for about $450. If you have a smaller home or cottage, the Eccotemp FVI-12-LP High Capacity Propane Tankless Water Heater is a compact energy-efficient unit with a list price of $300. Bosch AquaStar Tankless Water Heaters are available in natural gas and propane and are sold at Amazon and Tankless Water Heaters Direct.
