What is a Tankless Water Heater?
To understand the lifespan of tankless water heaters, it’s important to know how they work. Unlike traditional 80, 100 and 150 gallon units that store and continuously heat water in large quantities, tankless water heaters heat the water on-demand as it flows through the unit.
This eliminates two things: first, the need for a huge storage tank, so it takes up significantly less room. Secondly, it ensures a constant supply of hot water whenever you need it. But since it’s heated on demand, it uses much less energy.
How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?
Tankless water heaters generally last between 15 to 20 years. This average lifespan can be extended or shortened by a few things:
- The quality of the unit
- How much it’s used
- Maintenance schedules
Tankless heaters will last 50% - 100% longer than a traditional water heater, which generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance and proper usage can extend the lifespan of a tankless water heater even further.
Maintenance: Help your Tankless Water Heater Last Longer
The most important thing you can do to keep your tankless system healthy is flushing it annually. This will typically cost $225 - $500. Flush the system annually to remove mineral deposits and ensure proper ventilation. Failing to do this can lead to pipes leaking, parts needing replaced, and in severe cases: system replacement. It’s no joke.
Additionally, monitor the water pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer's recommendations as needed. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific maintenance requirements associated with your tankless unit.
Proper maintenance will help a tankless heater have a longer lifespan than conventional water heaters. But how will you know when your tankless heater is starting to age?
Signs of an Aging Tankless Water Heater
While tankless water heaters have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, keep an eye out for signs of an aging unit to prevent significant issues.
These signs include:
- Low water temperature or water flow
- Long heat-up times, or your tankless unit not holding heat
- High energy bills - due to lowered energy efficiency
- Unusual noises coming from your tankless heater
- Unexpected cold water or signs of hard water
- More repairs and costlier ones
If you notice any of these signs, your tankless water heater probably requires professional attention. Don't worry — a rise in tankless heater popularity means more plumbers service them. Reliable tankless water heater service is readily available in most cities.
Is purchasing a tankless heater really better than a regular heater?
We talked to a few of our plumbing partners about scenarios where it makes sense to get a tankless heater. Let's explore the factors to consider, including cost, simplicity, and specific scenarios where each type of heater may be more suitable.
Tankless Water Heater:
- You have a large household with high hot water demand.
- You prioritize energy efficiency and long-term savings.
- You plan to stay in your home for an extended period.
- You value the space-saving benefits of a compact unit.
Traditional Heater:
- You have a limited budget and want a more affordable option.
- You have a small household with lower hot water usage.
- You prefer the simplicity and reliability of a proven technology.
- You do not plan to stay in your current home for a long time.
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