There are numerous reasons to choose an electric tankless water heater over standard models, including overall efficiency and long-term performance. With this information in mind, opting for a tankless model is a no-brainer investment for homeowners interested in enhancing their home with cutting-edge appliances.
"Factors like performance longevity and ingenuity can help you choose the right model."
Selecting the best tankless water heater for your home, however, may not be so obvious a choice, especially if this is your first time evaluating and purchasing a tankless model. Thankfully, there are always ways to pick out the superior products from inferior models, like performance longevity and ingenuity in design. Review the following suggestions for assistance in selecting a tankless water heater that meets the exact needs of your household.
Do a little digging into product histories
It pays to know more about the tankless water heaters you are considering, including the history of their design and performance. A company with several decades of experience, for example, can demonstrate a proven track record over a longer period of design compared to models designed by manufacturers established in the past ten years. Well-established manufacturers also have access to greater resources in terms of research and development, offering products that feature signature technology perfected over years of updates and redesigns.
Prioritize space effectiveness when comparing models
One of the key advantages of going tankless is that removing the reservoir tank, in addition to naturally boosting water efficiency, frees up space in your home that would otherwise be dominated by a hulking metal furnace. The Department of Energy warned that simply investing in the the smallest tankless heater available won't help – an undersized water heater can cause just as many inefficiency problems as an aging appliance.
Keep an eye out for tankless manufacturers with multiple size options. Likewise, a trustworthy plumbing professional will put time and effort into ensuring the tankless model you choose is correctly sized for the needs of your home.
"Service life also reflects the total cost of ownership."
Inquire about long-term performance before making your choice
Tankless water heaters are designed for extended performance. Top-tier models are even capable of running efficiently for 20 years. When shopping around for a tankless water heater, make sure to compare the life expectancy of each appliance. The durability of your water heater impacts more than just how long your family will go before needing a replacement. Service life also reflects how much maintenance you'll need to account for when measuring the total cost of ownership.
Evaluate technical support from the manufacturer
Consumer Reports recommended finding a technician with manufacturer training. It may seem extreme to do research on the technical support that a water heater manufacturer offers its installers, but remember that a strong relationship between the manufacturer and installers can be a boon to your plumber's maintenance expertise. Think of the manufacturer as your backup resource for repairs – you're better off working with a plumber that has a direct line of communication to the people who designed your appliance.