What are the Top 5 Things to Consider Before Getting an on-Demand Water Heater?

When planning to upgrade a property's water heater, choosing an on-demand water heating system has become a popular option for homeowners and businesses alike. However, there are several factors to consider before settling on an on-demand water heater, such as budget, energy-efficiency, installation, maintenance, and safety. To understand which of these needs to be given priority, it is important to consider the specific location the heater will be installed.

For the American city of Austin, Texas (zip code 78757) the environment is temperamental, with water temperatures rarely or never dropping below freezing levels in winter. During the humid summer months, especially from June through August, water temperature can shoot up to scorching levels. Because of this, property owners wanting to invest in an on-demand heater in Austin must focus on certain criteria more than others.

On-demand water heaters provide instant hot water, with no delays and no waiting for hot water to come through as in traditional tank-type water heaters. Tankless systems cost less than tank-type water heaters, depending on the size, and require less maintenance and repair over time, making them a great investment long term.

Below are the top 5 factors to consider before buying an on-demand water heater in Austin, Texas:

1. Energy Efficiency

The American federal government considers an on-demand water heater to be an energy-efficient system, and through the Energy Star program, provides grants to property owners installing approved on-demand water heaters. While considering a new on-demand water heater, ensure to choose one with certifications such as the ENERGY STAR program. Some high-end models also come with additional features, such as pre-set aqua temperature settings, low-cost heating modes, and advanced thermocontrol technologies.

2. Size of the System

The size of an on-demand water heater depends on the size of the property. More precisely, the size of the region where the hot water will be used, and the number of people using hot water, will determine the size of the water heater needed. Depending on these measurements, tankless electric models are available for one room, two rooms, large homes, and commercial establishments. It is always best to install a larger tankless water heater system than a smaller one to reduce energy waste, as it will cost more in the long-term.

3. Quality of Installation

Installation of an on-demand water heater is an important step to ensure the unit functions safely and efficiently. Hence, it is important to get the heater installed correctly with the right size and quality components. In many cases, due to complications related to the installation, such as gas line connections, additional fees may be incurred. It is advisable to choose an experienced and reputed plumbing contractor, such as Abacus Residential and Commercial Plumbers, to ensure a quality, safe, and reliable installation of the on-demand water heater system.

4. Cost of Maintenance and Repairs

On-demand water heaters demand minimal maintenance and repairs due to their simple design, and there are no tanks to corrode over time. However, it is important to inspect the unit regularly and replace filter parts or flush the system. Doing these simple checks can extend the life of the system and value for money. Also, it is crucial to choose the right kind of service provider in case a repair is needed, such as Abacus Residential and Commercial Plumbers, who have technicians who are trained to the highest standards, insured, and certified to ensure quality service.

5. Safety of the System

It is important to choose a safe on-demand water heater system. The temperature cut-off ensures that water does not get too hot or too cold, and this is especially true in warm climates such as Austin's. In cold climates, it is important to install anti-freeze kits, which provide additional security and help prevent leakage.

Closing considerations

On-demand water heaters are great investments when the necessary factors and options are considered. It is important to fit the right size and quality dash with the right components, and to have it installed and maintained by a qualified, experienced, and professional plumbing contractor. Property owners in Austin, Texas, can count on Abacus Residential and Commercial Plumbers to provide high-quality installations and repairs for on-demand hot water heaters.

On-Demand Water Heaters

Austin

Plumbing