Why You Should Consider a Tankless Water Heater for Energy Efficiency

February 24, 2025 Chris Shirlow Water Heater

Hot water plays a crucial role in everyday life. Showers, laundry, dishwashing—every task depends on a reliable and efficient system. Traditional tank water heaters have been the standard for decades, but technology has introduced a better alternative. Upgrading to a tankless water heater provides significant benefits, especially in terms of energy efficiency.

As Central Pennsylvania’s trusted plumbing services provider, including water heater solutions, Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical is laying out all the facts so homeowners like you can make an informed decision for your family. Then, when you’re ready for an upgrade, you can count on us to carry out the installation. We even offer ongoing maintenance and repair so your new system can continue to perform at its best for years to come.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Conventional storage water heaters operate by filling a large tank with water and keeping it heated at a set temperature until needed. This stored supply continuously reheats to maintain warmth, ensuring hot water remains available when someone turns on a faucet or starts an appliance. Once the stored hot water runs out, the system refills and reheats.

Tankless water heaters function differently. Instead of storing hot water, they heat it on demand. When a hot water tap opens, cold water moves through the unit, passing over a heat exchanger that rapidly raises its temperature before delivering it directly to the faucet, shower, or appliance.

Gas tankless water heaters use burners to heat the water quickly, making them ideal for households with higher hot water demands. Electric tankless water heaters rely on powerful heating elements to perform the same function. Both options eliminate the need for a bulky storage tank, offering a more streamlined way to access hot water whenever required.

Energy Efficiency Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

Homeowners looking to lower utility bills often turn to energy-efficient appliances. Tankless water heaters meet that need by eliminating the energy drain of continuously heating stored water. Since they heat water on demand, they use less energy overall.

Traditional models waste energy due to standby heat loss, meaning they constantly work to maintain a set temperature. A tankless water heater activates only when hot water is needed, reducing energy consumption significantly. This efficiency translates into lower monthly utility bills.

Environmental Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Conserving energy reduces the strain on power grids and decreases fossil fuel consumption. With lower energy usage, tankless heaters contribute to a smaller carbon footprint. Traditional tank water heaters use more fuel and electricity, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Water conservation also improves with a tankless system. Since hot water arrives faster, less cold water gets wasted while waiting for the right temperature.

Additional Benefits of Going Tankless

Energy efficiency remains one of the biggest reasons homeowners switch to tankless heaters, but the advantages extend beyond lower energy savings. These systems offer convenience, longevity, and a space-saving design.

Endless Hot Water Supply

Running out of hot water disrupts daily routines. Traditional tank water heaters store a limited amount of heated water, meaning long showers or back-to-back appliance use can lead to a cold surprise. Tankless water heaters eliminate that issue. Since they heat water as needed, households never run out of hot water.

Larger families, frequent guests, and high-demand households benefit most from this feature. Imagine showers, laundry, and dishwashing happening simultaneously without a drop in temperature!

Space-Saving Design

Bulky tanks take up valuable space. Traditional models require a dedicated area, often in basements, garages, or utility closets. A tankless water heater has a compact design that mounts on a wall, freeing up room for storage or other appliances.

Small homes, apartments, and renovated spaces are great candidates for a tankless hot water heater because of this. With indoor and outdoor installation options, homeowners also gain flexibility in system placement.

Durability and Longevity

Investing in a reliable water heating system means considering long-term performance. Tankless water heaters outlast traditional storage models, often doubling their lifespan with proper maintenance. While tank water heaters typically last 10 to 15 years, tankless models can function efficiently for 20 years or more.

Corrosion and sediment buildup inside storage tanks contribute to wear and tear, leading to leaks and system failures over time. Since tankless water heaters don’t store water, they avoid these common issues, resulting in fewer repairs and a longer-lasting system. Routine maintenance, such as descaling and filter cleaning, keeps them operating at peak performance with minimal upkeep.

Considerations Before Making the Switch

A tankless water heater delivers numerous benefits, but homeowners should consider a few factors before installation.

Initial Cost

The upfront cost of a tankless system exceeds that of a traditional model. While long-term energy savings help offset this investment, the initial price may be a factor for some homeowners. Evaluating energy usage and household hot water needs can help determine if the savings justify the cost.

Household Hot Water Demand

A tankless heater provides endless hot water, but capacity matters. The unit must meet the home’s peak hot water demand. Choosing the right size ensures consistent performance, especially in larger households. Professional guidance helps homeowners select the appropriate model based on usage patterns.

Professional Installation

Correct installation plays a crucial role in performance and efficiency. An improperly installed unit may struggle to meet demand or operate inefficiently. Hiring an experienced professional ensures safe setup, proper venting, and compliance with local codes.

Let Handyside Help You Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater

Upgrading to a tankless water heater offers energy efficiency, cost savings, and modern convenience. Homeowners looking for a reliable, energy-efficient solution should consider making the switch.

Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical specializes in professional tankless water heater installation. Our experienced team assesses household hot water needs, recommends the right system, and ensures a seamless installation. Whether you prefer gas tankless water heaters or electric models, we provide expert guidance to help you choose the best option.