A traditional water heater is a convenient option found in many Calgary homes, but there are newer, more efficient alternatives that will provide the same convenience—if not more—while also helping increase your energy savings. Rather than wasting energy to keep 80 gallons heated all day long, a tankless unit only operates when you need it. It heats water on demand, so that you always have what you need for a hot shower or sink full of dishes, and it only uses energy to heat what you need when you need it, so you don’t have to spend more than necessary on your energy bills.
Tankless models’ initial installation costs can be higher than tank-based units. It’s important to know all the benefits and drawbacks of installing a tankless system, so that you can make the right choice for your home. Here is a clearer outline of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Energy efficiency may reduce your utility costs by 30 percent.
- Longer lifespan than tank-based units (20 vs. 15 years).
- Boosts home value.
- Lowers risk of water damage.
- More environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- High upfront unit and installation costs.
- Depending on the number of people in your household, it may not be able to meet your needs.
- Tankless models require more complex repairs.
Gas. Vs. Electric — Which One Is More Efficient?
Generally speaking, gas is a more cost effective fuel, but it’s less energy efficient overall, as some fuel is lost during the combustion process. Electric-powered units can be more energy-efficient because they do not waste energy, but if you find yourself using a lot of electricity, gas may be a better option.
It’s important to keep in mind that switching from gas to electric or vice versa can be a challenging task, as creating new gas lines might involve drilling and cutting within your home. Those extra requirements could add to your overall installation costs. Our team is always ready to help you determine the best choice for your home and provide the advice you need to choose the best model for meeting your needs.
Signs You Need Tankless Water Heater Installation
The top sign that you need a new unit is that your current system is old. You can check your hot water heater for the installation date or last service date to determine its condition. While tank models can last over 12 years, you may start seeing inefficiency and the potential need for repairs after that point. Even if you schedule regular maintenance services, you should pay attention to these warning signs that show you should consider an appointment for Calgary tankless water heater installation:
Not Heating Enough Water
If your unit provides you with an inadequate amount of hot water, blockages and sediment buildup in your tank might be to blame. Other culprits of fluctuating temperatures include your pressure-balancing valve and shower cartridge. If your unit is old and experiencing these problems, it’s likely to suffer from them more and more often, in which case, replacement will be more cost effective than repairs.
Low Pressure
Are you experiencing low pressure during your shower? That could be a sign that there are issues with your heater’s tank or its other vital components. If those problems are serious, you may need to consider installing a new unit.
Your Tank is Too Small
Do the people living in your home frequently complain about running out of hot water? If so, your tank might be too small to supply additional water to everyone that needs it. One of our plumbing experts could give you details on cost-effective upgrades. Otherwise, if you have never experienced this issue before, it’s worth checking for sediment buildup and other damage that may need to be addressed.
Strange noises
If you hear rumbling noises, or any other strange noises coming from your system, that could be a sign that it’s time to start thinking about replacement or installing an upgrade. The noise could be caused by reactions with sediment trapped at the bottom of your tank—the boiling bubbles manage to break off the deposits, and they float within your tank—but those noises could also be caused by more serious issues.
Faulty Pilot Light
The pilot light requires a sufficient amount of gas to work efficiently. If you notice the light is continuously flickering, you might need repairs or replacement. If you’re fixing that faulty light frequently, installing a new tankless system will be more cost effective than paying for constant repairs.
Rust
If you have rust buildup at the bottom of your tank, you will be able to tell by your hot water’s colour. If you spot signs of discoloration, check around your tank to see if there is rust on the exterior. When rust is widespread and serious, replacement is often the only viable option.
Old Age
Although lifespans depend on the level of maintenance your system receives, conventional models in Calgary last anywhere from eight to twelve years. If your existing system has passed its life expectancy, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it with professional installation services, especially if it’s starting to experience frequent issues.
Not Draining Through Drain Valve
Sediment buildup will lead to a clogged drain valve. There are professional ways to unclog or flush the drain valve, but if you suffer from constant clogs due to sediment buildup, you may be happier with a tankless unit that isn’t as vulnerable to those types of problems.
Puddles Around Tank
Puddles are a sign that you have a leak. If you have a leak, it could be from either a broken drain valve, a temperature-pressure valve or from damage on the bottom of the tank. Your local plumber can help check the pressure inside the tank as well as any other valves that are leaking, but if the issue is from damage at the bottom of your tank, replacement will be the only option. It’s crucial that you deal with this situation fast. Otherwise, that leak could cause structural damage to your home that requires expensive repairs.
