Top 5 Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Tankless Water Heater for Your Austin Home

In the Austin, Texas area, tankless water heaters have been gaining more and more attention as a potentially more efficient and economical alternative to traditional storage tank water heaters. As residents of the 78754 zip code strive to reduce energy costs while increasing the efficiency of their homes, a tankless water heater may be an ideal solution for their needs. Before making such a significant purchase, however, it is wise to consider a few key factors first. This article will speak to the five most important factors to consider when deciding whether a tankless water heater is the right choice for your Austin home.

1. Energy Savings Potential

The primary motivation for many people considering a tankless water heater purchase is the potential for energy savings. When compared to a traditional water heater, a tankless water heater will consume less energy, and potentially offer sizable savings in total energy costs. This is because a tankless water heater only turns on when hot water is requested, thus not using energy to keep a tank of water hot while waiting for use. This 'on-demand' system also means that the requirements for hot water can change quickly and easily, and the tankless water heater will be able to heat the needed water in minutes.

2. Home Layout Considerations

One of the important questions to consider before purchasing a tankless water heater is whether a tankless water heater is the best choice for the specific layout of your home. This is because a tankless water heater will require installation both at the point of use for the hot water, and at the main water connection to the home. Therefore, if there is more than one bathroom or if a basement laundry room is located far away from the main water connection, a tankless water heater may not be ideal.

3. Setup Requirements

Due to the need to be hard-wired in at both points of use and main water connection, it is important to understand the setup requirements for a tankless water heater before purchase. If an existing hot water system exists, the tankless water heater will have to be properly disconnected, and then the tankless water heater must be hard-wired into the existing wiring. This may require the expertise and assistance of an experienced, licensed plumber.

4. Maintenance

It is also important to note that while tankless water heaters may offer substantial savings over the life of the unit, they do require regular maintenance, typically every 2-3 years. This helps to ensure that the tankless water heater continues to operate at maximum efficiency and that it continues to provide a supply of hot water when needed.

5. Cost Considerations

It is important to note that tankless water heaters may be a more expensive purchase than a traditional storage tank water heater. However, the money saved on energy costs over time may end up making the tankless water heater purchase a more economical decision in the long run. Ultimately, this is a decision that will need to be weighed carefully.

As always, Abacus is here to help. Whether you're considering purchasing a tankless water heater or if you're already the proud owner of a tankless water heater and have questions regarding installation, maintenance, or energy efficiency, our friendly, knowledgeable technicians are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about making the most of a tankless water heater in your Austin-area home.

Tankless Water Heater

78754

Austin TX