5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tankless Water Heater in Austin, Texas (78741)

If you live in Austin, Texas and are looking to replace your current water heater with a tankless option, there are a few factors to consider before you make your purchase. A tankless water heater, while efficient and lasting longer than traditional tank water heaters, can be expensive up front and require professional installation. Knowing the local costs associated with installation and upkeep—including parts, labor, and energy efficiency—is key to learning whether you should make the switch. Continue reading for five factors to consider if you are thinking about upgrading to a tankless water heater in Austin, Texas.

Size

The size of your new tankless water heater will mostly depend on the size of your home. A tankless water heater can supply hot water for one bathroom, all the way up to a full home. If you live in a one or two-person house, a smaller water heater is best. However, if your family is larger, you may need a larger version. Additionally, it's important to keep the size of your current water heater in mind when selecting a new one. If you're replacing an existing model, you'll likely want to opt for a tankless water heater of the same size.

Heater Fuel

Like a traditional tank water heater, tankless water heaters require fuel to work. Your water heater's fuel will depend on the energy source for your home. Most single-family homes in Austin, and across Texas, use electric or natural gas as their primary source of energy. If you're hoping to save on energy and fuel usage, natural gas is the more efficient—and cost-effective—choice.

Installation and Maintenance Costs

While you can certainly install a tankless water heater by yourself, most homeowners in Austin hire professional help to install their new water heaters. Not only that, but because of the intricate interior of a tankless water heater, homeowners should have a professional inspect the tank every now and then for condition and performance. Be sure to shop around and get multiple quotes on both installation and maintenance before committing to a particular provider and price.

Energy Efficiency

One of the main reasons homeowners opt for tankless water heaters is due to their energy efficiency. A tankless water heater works differently than a traditional tank version—it only turns on when a faucet is turned on, which helps conserve energy used to heat the water. Additionally, tankless water heaters often have a built-in condensing technology, which improves the system's energy efficiency and minimizes water waste.

Some Final Thoughts

Switching to a tankless water heater can have a number of long-term benefits for your home, but it's important to consider all costs involved in both purchasing and installing the system. Taking the cost of the heater, installation and maintenance, energy type, and energy efficiency into consideration is a great way to get a broad view of what this upgrade might really mean for your pocketbook.

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