The tankless water heater is becoming popular among homeowners, with more and more people migrating away from the traditional water heater and toward the tankless one. The appeal of the tankless water heater is found in its convenience and comfort.
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Tankless water heaters are sometimes overrated, though. Here are just a few common myths about their application and capabilities.
- They delivers hot water fast – Fast, yes—instant no. Contrary to what many people believe, you do not get hot water from a tankless heater the moment you turn on your faucet. The speed of hot water delivery depends on the distance between the tank and your faucet. If your tankless water heater is in the same location as your old water heater, you will probably end up getting hot water in your faucet from a tankless system as fast as you would from the traditional system. This is due to the fact that the hot water will travel the same distance.
- They are simple to install – Contrary to what many people believe, the installation procedure for a tankless water heater is not a one-and-done process. Traditional water heaters are installed with different mechanics, and switching to a tankless one can require a lot of additional work. The water and the gas lines will need to be adjusted and retrofitted.
- They are one-size-fits-all – Different companies produce unique iterations. They vary in performance depending on the materials used. Some will offer more firepower than others. Before you buy your tankless water heater, compare different models to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product with the features that you need.
- You don’t need a permit for installation – The permit requirement for any home project or renovation, including the replacement of a water heater, depends on the regulations of your local governing body. Some cities require a permit; others do not. Check with the proper department before you start work.
Before you replace your traditional water heater with a tankless version, make sure that you separate facts from myths. Ask for the help of a professional plumber who can advise you on whether or not a tankless system is right for your needs.