How does a tankless water heater work?

It is a question that our professional plumbers hear quite often. A tankless water heater saves you money, space and energy, so we understand the curiosity in how it actually functions.

How A Tankless Water Heater Works

A tankless water heater heats your home’s water supply on demand, or instantly, as you need it. Here is a basic breakdown on how a tankless unit heats your home’s water supply:

1. Hot water is needed (a faucet or tub is turned on, an appliance like a dishwasher needs it, etc)
2. Water is brought into your home through your home’s plumbing
3. The water coming into your home flows through the tankless water heater. A heating element brings it up to temperature as it runs through
4. The water is now at the right temperature and delivered to the faucet or appliance where it is requested

With this process, energy costs associated with traditional water heaters are reduced drastically. Within the storage tank of a traditional heater, the water is heated and reheated throughout the day. It constantly holds a standby supply of water at the temperature needed to supply it when needed. Tankless water heaters avoid this heating and then reheating process.

Another benefit of eliminating the tank associated with your water heater is a cleaner water supply. Over time, your tank collects dirt, debris, sediments, small rocks and rust. Your home’s hot water supply sits in the same tank as the particles listed, hence your water slowly becomes more and more contaminated. Although, an annual flush and drain service alleviates this issue because it cleans the tank.

Learn more about tankless water heaters and how they work to make your home more energy efficient while also saving you money. Contact our professional plumbers today!