5 Things to Consider When Evaluating Tankless Water Heater Cost

When looking to upgrade your water heater to a tankless model, there are several essential points to consider in order to make an educated decision. From the inconveniences of installation and the upfront cost of the tankless water heater, to the potential energy savings it can bring over time, this article will outline the five primary considerations to keep in mind when evaluating the cost associated with the installation and use of a tankless water heater in Austin (zip code 78753).

When unilaterally upgrading from a traditional tank water heater to a tankless model, it is important to account for the additional plumbing and gas line work involved. Replacements for tankless models may require different gas and water lines, due to their more compact design, meaning that significant portions of the existing infrastructure may be converted or replaced. In some cases, the installation of a tankless water heater can be done without any additional piping work, however, the cost of this type of conversion is typically more expensive than a traditional water heater replacement. Moreover, the installation of a tankless water heater can sometimes be more difficult and time-consuming than a traditional model, meaning that it is important to factor the airborne cost of a professional plumber when evaluating the total cost of a tankless water heater for your Austin home (78753).

In terms of the upfront fixed costs associated with a tankless water heater, these will largely depend on the size, technology, and quality of the individual unit one is looking to purchase. Generally speaking, tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional units in the short-term and initial setup costs can range anywhere from $800–$3,000 for a typical two-bedroom home. Moreover, due to the higher-end technology and precision needed to control water temperatures in a tankless system, these initial costs can be notably higher if complexities in the installation develop. To ensure that the installation goes smoothly and cost-effectively, it is important to seek out a licensed plumbing expert who can properly assess the existing infrastructure, the complexity and necessary work involved in replacing the current water heater with a tankless version, and provide an accurate cost estimate for the full-service project.

Evaluating the potential savings associated with the installation of a tankless water heater is a bit more involved and requires a longer-term outlook. While tankless water heaters cost significantly more upfront than traditional tank models, they can offer significant energy savings over time. This is due to the fact that tankless systems heat water only when it is needed, meaning that one is less likely to be unnecessarily paying for water storage and reheating multiple times throughout the day. In terms of payback time, or the length of time it takes to recover the extra expense associated with the installation of a tankless unit, this can range anywhere from 1–5 years depending on how much hot water is being used and how aggressively one prices shop for the most cost-effective and energy-efficient version.

Finally, one point to consider when evaluating the cost of installing a tankless water heater is the potential for repair or replacement costs later on. Replacements and repairs for tankless systems can typically be more expensive due to their generally more complex setup and technology requirements, meaning that although tankless systems generally tend to be longer-lasting than traditional tank models, it is important to factor repair costs into the equation when determining if one is truly getting their money's worth over time from the investment. As always, saving a few hundred dollars upfront by going with an untrustworthy model can translate into costly repairs and inconveniences further down the line.

In summary, it is important to carefully consider a variety of elements when evaluating the cost of installing a tankless water heater. From the upfront and airborne costs associated with the installation and upkeep of a tankless unit, to the potential energy and repair savings that can be achieved over the long-term, these five considerations should be weighed carefully in order to ensure money is spent prudently on such a substantial purchase.

Tankless Water Heater Cost

Tankless Water Heater

Residential Plumbing