The cost of heating water for use in your home can amount to as much as 30% of your home's energy expenses, which makes a move to more economical water heating solutions a sensible and wise one. But despite the obvious advantages of tankless water heaters, plumbers and contractors sometimes advise against these modern water heating solutions for several reasons:
1. Cost
Tankless water heaters are often double the cost of conventional tank-style water heaters. Traditional water heaters begin around $800 for new installations; tankless-style water heaters start at around $1,600. Of course, the long-term economics of tankless water heaters make them a viable option for homeowners, so if your finances allow, they're often the preferred option.
However, the additional costs associated with installation may turn some homeowners away. Some systems require new pipes and additional ventilation, which may increase the cost of installation.
2. Complex Retrofitting
Depending on the age of the home and the condition of its plumbing, installing a tankless water heater may require more complex installation than simply adding a new conventional water tank. Depending on the skill level and expertise of your plumber, you may be able to reduce these costs.
3. Need for Additional Hardware
Depending on your location, you will need a water softener before a tankless system can be implemented. Hard water can ruin tankless units, whereas many conventional water heaters may be used with hard water.
The drawbacks of tankless units may turn some homeowners away, but with increasingly efficient technology and ever-lowering costs, a well-maintained indoor or outdoor tankless water heater may yield rewarding long-term benefits.
To learn more about installing either traditional or tankless water heating units in your home or office building, contact Pioneer Plumbing and Heating today.
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