FAQs on Buying the Best Tankless Water Heater for Your Austin Home

Living in the bustling city of Austin, Texas means needing reliable hot water for all of your home's needs. The recommended solution for Austin-area homes is to buy a tankless water heater, also referred to as an on-demand or instant water heater. Hot water tanks can be incredibly wasteful, losing 30% of their energy. That means you'll save money and energy if you upgrade to a tankless water heater.

However, there are lots of factors to consider when making that kind of purchase. It can be overwhelming. That's why we've put together this guide of frequently asked questions to give you an easy-to-understand overview of tankless water heaters.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Put simply, a tankless water heater is a system that heats the water as it passes through. It doesn't maintain a reserve of hot water; it's on-demand and uses far less energy than traditional hot water heaters. Since tankless water heaters don't store hot water, they have no standby energy loss—which can be a major financial advantage over tanks.

What Types of Tankless Water Heaters Are Available?

Tankless water heaters come in two main types: electric and gas. Electric tankless hot water heaters are the most common type and require an upgrade to a 220-volt electric circuit. Gas varieties come in three varieties:

Natural Gas:

This type of heater runs on natural gas and is the most efficient and cost-effective option. The only real drawback is the installation cost (which can be pricey).

Propane:

Propane water heaters are more expensive, but some customers prefer them because they don't require electricity. That makes them useful for homeowners in the Texas countryside who have spotty electricity service.

Tankless Coil and Indirect Water Heaters

These are usually installed alongside traditional tank systems and use the home's existing boiler for hot water needs. That means they take up less space and have lower installation costs. But they can take longer to heat up the water, which can be inconvenient.

What Size Tankless Water Heater Do I Need?

Determining the size you need depends on a few factors. First, consider the flow rate (gallons per minute, or GPM), then the peak gallon-per-hour demand, and finally the climate of the area in which the installation will take place. The experts at Abacus recommend customers get at least a 1.4 GPM for a two-shower home, giving each shower about a half-gallon-per-minute flow. That flow rate should be plenty to provide an adequate water temperature. Some manufacturers even claim higher flow rates, but it's best to stick with listings from reputable manufacturers.

Are Tankless Water Heaters More Energy-Efficient?

Yes! Tankless water heaters are far more efficient than tank systems. That's because they don't store hot water, meaning none of the heat energy is lost. Additionally, tankless water heaters modulate the temperature, meaning they only heat up when necessary. That means less water and energy usage. To put it in perspective, tankless water heaters usually save 40-50% on water heating bills.

What Other Benefits Do Tankless Water Heaters Offer?

Other than the energy efficiency, tankless water heaters have many other practical benefits, such as:

Longer Life:

They can last up to 20 years, nearly double the lifespan of a traditional tank system—which usually lasts 8-12 years.

Compact Size:

Since tankless systems don't require a storage tank, they take up less space than traditional heaters. That makes them great for condos, apartments, and any other property with limited space.

Safety:

Tankless systems are safer than traditional systems since there is no chance of water leaking from the broken tank.

Where Can I Buy a Tankless Water Heater?

If you're ready to make the switch, you can find a reliable tankless water heater in a variety of places. You can find them online, in home and hardware stores, as well as from dedicated plumbing supply shops like Abacus Plumbing & Air Conditioning.

Conclusion:

Tankless water heaters are a great way to save energy and money on your Austin home's utility bills. From the compact size to the longer life and overall energy savings, tankless water heaters can be an invaluable asset for your home. If you're ready to make the switch, contact Abacus Plumbing & Air Conditioning for all of your Austin tankless water heater needs.

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