How much does it cost to install an electric tankless water heater?

Installation costs for electric tankless water heaters can vary based on unit size, home electrical capacity, and labor rates. Generally, the unit itself can range from $450 to $1,500, and labor costs are around $75 to $130 per hour. Additional costs may arise if electrical upgrades are needed for your home’s circuit panel.

Can an electric tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my whole house?

Electric tankless water heaters are best suited for small to medium-sized households or for specific areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Larger homes with high hot water demand may require a higher-capacity model or multiple units to meet simultaneous needs, as electric tankless systems typically have lower flow rates than gas models.

How energy-efficient is an electric tankless water heater?

Electric tankless water heaters are highly efficient, typically reducing energy usage by 24-34% for households using 41 gallons of hot water or less daily. Unlike traditional heaters, they don’t consume energy when hot water isn’t needed, leading to significant energy savings over time.

What maintenance is required for an electric tankless water heater?

Electric tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance compared to gas models. However, regular descaling is recommended, especially if you live in an area with hard water. This helps prevent mineral buildup that can affect performance and prolong the lifespan of the heater.

Do electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates?

Yes, electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates, but their efficiency can be impacted by incoming water temperature. In colder regions, they may provide a lower flow rate or require more energy to heat water, making them better suited for small homes or as point-of-use units in colder areas.

Is an Electric Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

December 12, 2024

Switching to an electric tankless water heater can improve how your home heats water and cut down on energy costs. But is this new heating option good for you? In this guide, we will look at the benefits and limitations. We will also go over the installation needs and other things to think about when selecting an electric tankless water heater for your home. This will help you decide if it meets your family’s needs.

Key Takeaways

Electric tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water, offering energy savings by eliminating standby heat loss.
These heaters are compact and ideal for small to medium-sized homes but may have limited flow rates for high-demand households.
Installation costs can vary, especially if electrical upgrades are needed, but maintenance is minimal compared to gas models.
Electric tankless units are eco-friendly, producing no emissions and using only as much energy as needed to heat water instantly.
Cold climates may impact efficiency, so these units are best suited for smaller homes or as point-of-use systems in regions with colder incoming water.

What Is an Electric Tankless Water Heater?

Unlike regular tank heaters that keep hot water in a large storage tank, an electric tankless water heater heats water right as it flows through the unit. This system works only when you need it, saving energy and offering an unlimited amount of hot water. These small units use electric heat sources. They can fit into tight spaces and are often easier to install than gas tankless systems.

Key Benefits of an Electric Tankless Water Heater

Electric tankless water heaters offer several benefits that can appeal to many homeowners. Here are some reasons to think about adding one to your home:

1. Energy Efficiency

Electric tankless water heaters heat water only when you need it. This makes them more energy-saving than storage tank heaters. Studies show that tankless heaters can save 24-34% more energy for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water each day.

2. Lower Utility Bills

Tankless water heaters can help cut down on energy waste. This means you can save money on your monthly bills. This is especially the case for electric models. Electric water heaters usually cost less to run than gas ones. This is because installing a gas line is more expensive and requires more care.

3. Endless Hot Water Supply

For families who need a fair amount of hot water, an electric tankless heater can give them a steady supply of hot water. This means they won’t run out. This is great for homes where people might take showers, wash dishes, and do laundry at the same time.

4. Space-Saving Design

The small size of electric tankless water heaters makes them a great option for homes with little space. They usually hang on the wall and can fit in places where regular water tanks can't. This helps clear storage space in your room.

5. Eco-Friendly Option

Electric tankless water heaters do not use fossil fuels. This means they have a lower carbon footprint than gas heaters. Because of this, they are a good choice for homeowners who care about the environment.

Drawbacks of an Electric Tankless Water Heater

Electric tankless water heaters have several benefits, but they also come with some drawbacks:

1. High Power Demand

Electric tankless models need a lot of power to work well. They can use up to 25,000 watts, which may mean you need a special circuit. Homes with old electrical systems might need upgrades to handle this extra power.

2. Lower Flow Rate

Electric tankless water heaters typically have a lower flow rate than gas models. This can be a problem for bigger homes that need a lot of hot water. If several showers, appliances, or sinks are used at the same time, the water temperature may change or the flow rate might decrease.

3. Higher Upfront Cost

While electric tankless water heaters cost less than gas tankless ones, they still cost more than regular tank heaters at first. Still, the savings on energy bills over time can make up for the starting cost.

4. Water Quality Sensitivity

Tankless water heaters can be affected by hard water. This hard water can cause minerals to build up in the heating parts over time. You can avoid this problem by putting in a water softener or by having regular check-ups.

Installation and Maintenance Requirements

Proper installation and care are important for getting the best performance and long life from an electric tankless water heater. Here’s what you need to know:

Electrical Requirements: Most electric tankless units need a 220-240V electrical circuit. A separate breaker may be needed to stop power overloads. This could lead to extra costs if you have to change your electrical panel.
Placement: The small size of tankless water heaters makes it easy to put them in bathrooms, kitchens, or closets. They should be close to where you use hot water to reduce wait times.
Maintenance: Electric tankless water heaters need little upkeep compared to gas ones. It's a good idea to flush them regularly to clear out mineral buildup, especially in hard water areas, to keep them running well.

Choosing the Right Electric Tankless Water Heater

When choosing an electric tankless water heater, think about these factors:

Household Size and Water Demand: Electric tankless water heaters are great for small- and medium-sized homes that use good water. For bigger houses, you might need a larger model or even several units.
Power Capacity: Check if your home's electrical system can handle the energy needs of the heater. Talking to a professional can help you see if upgrades are needed.
Brand and Warranty: Choose well-known brands that provide warranties. This can help you avoid surprise repair costs later.

How PDS Plumbing and Air Can Help You

At PDS Plumbing & Air, we know that picking the right water heater is an important choice for homeowners. Our skilled plumbers and HVAC workers are ready to give you expert advice and solutions that suit your needs. We offer emergency services 24/7, so you can trust us to handle any urgent problems with your heating, cooling, or plumbing. Whether you want to install an electric tankless water heater or need regular help, PDS Plumbing & Air is here to assist you every step.

Why You Should Choose PDS Plumbing & Air:

When choosing an electric tankless water heater, think about these factors:

Expertise and Experience: Our team has skilled, friendly, and respectful professionals. They focus on your comfort and happiness.
Full Services: We take care of all your plumbing and HVAC needs, from drain cleaning to HVAC repairs and installing water heaters.
24/7 Emergency Help: We are available day and night when you need us the most.
Customer-Centered Approach: We treat your home with respect. We work hard to offer great service and smart solutions that match your needs.

Conclusion

Switching to an electric tankless water heater has many benefits. You can save energy, and it takes up less space. However, you need to think about what your home needs. Check your home’s electrical capacity and the costs to install one. This option works for many homeowners, but it might not be the best choice for everyone.

If you want to switch to a better water heating system, PDS Plumbing & Air can help. Get in touch with us today to set up a meeting. We will help you choose the best option for your home’s heating needs.

Call PDS Plumbing & Air at (559) 835-4144 to book your appointment or ask about installation choices!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to install an electric tankless water heater?
Installation costs for electric tankless water heaters can vary based on unit size, home electrical capacity, and labor rates. Generally, the unit itself can range from $450 to $1,500, and labor costs are around $75 to $130 per hour. Additional costs may arise if electrical upgrades are needed for your home’s circuit panel.
Can an electric tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my whole house?
Electric tankless water heaters are best suited for small to medium-sized households or for specific areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Larger homes with high hot water demand may require a higher-capacity model or multiple units to meet simultaneous needs, as electric tankless systems typically have lower flow rates than gas models.
How energy-efficient is an electric tankless water heater?
Electric tankless water heaters are highly efficient, typically reducing energy usage by 24-34% for households using 41 gallons of hot water or less daily. Unlike traditional heaters, they don’t consume energy when hot water isn’t needed, leading to significant energy savings over time.
What maintenance is required for an electric tankless water heater?
Electric tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance compared to gas models. However, regular descaling is recommended, especially if you live in an area with hard water. This helps prevent mineral buildup that can affect performance and prolong the lifespan of the heater.
Do electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates?
Yes, electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates, but their efficiency can be impacted by incoming water temperature. In colder regions, they may provide a lower flow rate or require more energy to heat water, making them better suited for small homes or as point-of-use units in colder areas.