On Demand Water Heater: What to Look for When Making the Choice for Your Home

Living in the heat and humidity of Austin, Texas, it's important to make sure that the water system in your home is up to date. A quality water heater is essential for your comfort and convenience. An on demand water heater, also known as an instantaneous or tankless water heater, delivers hot water on-demand, providing reliable hot water 24/7.

An on demand water heater offers several advantages over a tank water heater. They tend to be more energy efficient and can run more efficiently as they heat when they need, and they are smaller, require no tank, can help cut down energy costs, and have a longer lifespan. With all the advantages of an on-demand water heater, though, it's important to consider a few things before making your choice.

1. Size

On demand water heaters are available in a variety of sizes, from small units for a single faucet or small sink to large units that can serve an entire house. The size you need will be based on the number of water outlets you need to provide hot water to, plus the flow rate that the demand water heater must be able to deliver.

2. Fuel Type

On demand water heaters are available in several different fuel types – electric, natural gas, propane, and hybrid (which uses both electricity and gas). Electric water heaters are usually cheaper, but gas and hybrid are more efficient, saving energy and money on your energy bill. It is important to note that natural gas and propane water heaters require sufficient ventilation and a gas line of the appropriate size for the heater.

3. Safety Features

On demand water heaters come with a range of safety features, including temperature limiting, overheat protection, anti-scalding, pressure relief valves, and temperature control. Be sure to look for a water heater with these safety features.

4. Installation and Ventilation Requirements

On demand water heaters require precise installation, so it's important to make sure you hire a licensed plumber to ensure proper installation. Additionally, if you choose a gas water heater, it requires proper ventilation and the gas line must be sized correctly.

5. Maintenance and repairs

On demand water heaters require preventive maintenance, including flushing the tank, replacing the filter, and cleaning the burner. Not doing so can cause the water heater to run inefficiently and require frequent repairs, which can be costly. Additionally, if you install a gas water heater, you must have it opened and serviced every three years and/or replaced every 9 to 10 years, whereas electric water heaters typically last up to 11 years.

Making the right choice for an on demand water heater is an important decision for your home. Consider all of the factors listed above when deciding which is best for your needs. With the help of a qualified, licensed plumber, you'll be glad to have an on demand water heater that is efficient and reliable for many years to come.

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