• Tankless Water Heater

    Is tankless right for you?

    Are you ready to say, “Bye, bye bulky hot water tank, and hello to safety and savings!?” If so, then tankless / on-demand water heaters could be a great fit for you and your family. Since tankless systems are not constantly storing upwards of 40 gallons of water they are not as exposed to the same amount of minerals and corrosion that commonly cause our water heaters to crack and leak. Thus, making them much less of a hazard in our home. As well as quickly becoming more popular in our lower mainland homes due to their energy efficiencies. Tankless systems are reported as using 10 – 30% less than after storage tanks.

    With the correct maintenance, tankless units can last up to 20 years. Most units come with a 15-year warranty on the main heat exchanger. They are known for their durability and longevity but require yearly maintenance to remove mineral deposits and any signs of aging and to hold their best manufacturing warranty.

    Tankless / On-demand water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water to your home as the system heats the water as it’s being used. Space saving with the compact design.

    PROS

    • Safety – much less likely to cause damage to your home.
    • Insurance companies may offer lower premiums as the risk of water damage from leaks is significantly diminished
    • Standard water heaters are constantly working to heat the water. Tankless only uses energy when actively heating water.
    • 15-year warranties if maintained properly
    • Space saving with their nice compact design

    CONS

    • Upfront costs are higher. These advanced tanks themselves are quite a bit more expensive. Not to mention installation costs can be more complicated as extra work may be required depending on the age, layout of your home and venting systems.
    • All tankless water heaters require electricity to operate – during a power outage you may be in for a chilly shower!
    • Since there is no hot water storage tank, there can be slower hot water delivery when first using the hot water.

    FAQ

    Are “tankless” water heaters and “On-demand” water heaters the same thing?

    Yes, they are. The names are interchangeable.

    Which brands do we recommend?

    Recommend Navien & Rinnai – see our manufacturers page for more details

    Can they be installed in apartments and condo’s?

    Yes, they can – however they need gas and electrical connections, access to an exterior wall and the proper ventilation system. This can be difficult to have all those things as well as be cleared by a strata management company.

    How long does it take to install?

    It typically takes one day for installation.

    Will I save money on my water bill?

    If you use less than 40 gallons of water a day your water bill will save approximately 34%. If you typically use more than 40 gallons of water your bill will save 8% – 14%.

    Can I take a long shower with my tankless water heater?

    Yes, you could take a shower, dishwasher and do laundry all at the same time.