A just question indeed. Tankless water heaters which are also known as instantaneous water heaters, heat water as it flows through a heat exchanging coil. It is not the same as a standard water heater which essentially stockpiles water, heats it, and then disperses it throughout the home. Although they both get the job done i.e., heating water, there is a strong case in favor of tankless water heaters.
How Tankless Systems Work
The water heater is triggered by flow sensors which detect the presence of water. A negative feedback loop is then utilized to heat water to the ideal temperature. Water then circulates through a copper heat exchanger which is then warmed by gas or electric power. Because there is no reserve tank, hot water is limitless and theoretically never runs out. This is considered by most to be the prime virtue of tankless water heaters.
Longevity and Cost
While tankless water heaters are more expensive upfront, they are ultimately cheaper in the long run. A typical water heater needs to be replaced every ten years whereas most tankless water heaters only need replacing every twenty five years. What’s more they use much less energy and thus save the homeowner money. If that’s not enough, tankless water heaters are a pinnacle of efficiency. Traditional water heaters stockpile water which is then wasted whereas heat exchangers use only what is necessary.
Speed and Safety
This coincides with the prime virtue of tankless water heaters. Because of the mechanism of the device, the tankless water heater never runs out and it is always ready. With traditional water heaters one may need to wait until the water is ready. Not the case with tankless water heaters which are always good to go.