How quickly can a plumber arrive for an emergency in Chicago?

Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time, which is why our team prioritizes fast response throughout the city. Because our plumbers are local to Chicago and the surrounding neighborhoods, we can typically dispatch a licensed technician quickly when an urgent situation occurs. In many cases we are able to arrive within a short time depending on traffic, weather, and the time of day. Whether it's a burst pipe, sewer backup, flooded basement, or failed water heater, our goal is to get a qualified plumber on site as quickly as possible to stop the damage and begin repairs.

Do plumbing projects in Chicago require permits?

Many plumbing projects in Chicago require permits and inspections to ensure the work meets City of Chicago plumbing codes. Jobs such as water heater installations, sewer line repairs or replacements, major drain modifications, and whole-home repiping often require permits. Our team handles the entire permitting process, including submitting paperwork, coordinating inspections when necessary, and making sure the work is completed to code. Hiring a plumber who skips permits may seem faster in the moment, but it can lead to problems later when selling your home or during property inspections.

Are your plumbers licensed and experienced?

Yes. All of our plumbers are properly licensed in Illinois and trained to work on Chicago plumbing systems, which often include older pipes, cast iron drains, and city water connections. Chicago homes and buildings have unique plumbing challenges compared to newer suburban construction, so experience working locally is extremely important. Our plumbers bring decades of hands-on experience handling everything from emergency plumbing repairs to complex sewer and drain problems in both residential and commercial properties.

What parts of Chicago do you serve?

We provide plumbing services throughout the entire City of Chicago, including neighborhoods on the North Side, South Side, West Side, and downtown areas. Our local plumbers are also familiar with the infrastructure and plumbing layouts commonly found in Chicago homes, condos, apartment buildings, and commercial properties. Because we operate locally, we are able to respond quickly to service requests across the city and many nearby communities in the greater Chicagoland area.

Do you provide estimates before starting work?

Yes. We believe customers should understand the scope of the work before any repairs begin. For most scheduled service visits, our plumber will evaluate the issue and provide a clear explanation of the problem along with an upfront estimate for the recommended repair or replacement. If additional issues are discovered during the job, we always review the options with you before moving forward so there are no surprises.

What should I do if I experience a sewer backup?

If you notice sewage backing up into a drain, basement floor drain, or plumbing fixture, it is important to stop using water immediately. Avoid running sinks, flushing toilets, using the dishwasher, or doing laundry until the problem is inspected, since continued water use can force more wastewater back into your home. Sewer backups are commonly caused by tree root intrusion, grease buildup, collapsed pipes, or blockages in the main sewer line. A professional plumber can inspect the sewer line, often using a sewer camera, to locate the exact cause and recommend the best solution to restore proper drainage.

What are signs I may need professional drain cleaning?

Slow drains, recurring clogs, gurgling sounds in pipes, unpleasant odors from drains, and water backing up into nearby fixtures are all signs that buildup may be forming inside your drain lines. Professional drain cleaning removes grease, sludge, and debris that standard household cleaners cannot fully clear. In many cases, professional equipment such as drain machines or hydro jetting can restore pipes to full flow and help prevent future blockages.

Category Archives: tankless water heaters

Oct '25

Tankless Water Heaters: The Smart Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you’ve ever run out of hot water mid-shower or watched your energy bills climb every winter, it might be time to rethink your water heating system. Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are transforming the way homeowners approach hot water, offering efficiency, convenience, and long-term savings. Here’s why upgrading to a tankless system might be the smartest home improvement you’ve never considered.

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

In contrast to traditional water heaters that store gallons of hot water in a tank, tankless water heaters heat water only when you need it. When you turn on the faucet, cold water flows through the device and is heated up immediately, providing you with an endless hot water supply.

This on-demand system does away with the need for storage tanks, conserves energy lost heating water round the clock 24/7, and allows residents to enjoy hot water at their beck and call 24/7 with no interruption—whether during rush periods.

Major Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

1. Endless Hot Water

One of the biggest annoyances of conventional water heaters is to run out of hot water during a shower or when washing clothes. Tankless water heaters provide hot water as needed, so multiple family members can shower and appliances can run simultaneously without interruption.

2. Energy Efficiency and Lower Bills

Tankless water heaters are far more energy-efficient since they only heat water when required. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the switch to a tankless system can save households as much as 30% in water heating costs. Over time, this savings can pay for the initial installation cost, so it is an affordable upgrade.

3. Compact, Space-Saving Design

Since they lack a heavy tank, tankless water heaters are lightweight and can be installed within small rooms, basements, garages, or even wall hooks. Due to this, they are ideal for small houses or apartments where there is little space.

4. Longer Lifespan

Traditional water heaters have a typical lifespan of 10–15 years, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This longer lifespan translates into fewer replacement and wastage costs, which makes tankless water heaters a sound long-term investment.

5. Eco-Friendly Option

With reduced energy usage and reduced wastage of water, tankless water heaters are environmentally friendly. For individuals who are concerned about leaving minimal carbon footprints, switching to an on-demand system is the right way to go.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Electric models are compact, easier to install, and ideal for small to medium-sized families. They tend to have lower up-front costs but may require electrical upgrades in some homes.

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Gas models (natural gas or propane) are powerful and efficient, and can supply hot water for larger households. Installation may be more complicated, but they have faster recovery times and can support higher water flow rates.

How to Choose the Right Tankless Water Heater

Selecting the right tankless water heater requires considering several factors:

Household Size: The larger the family, the greater flow rate is needed to provide instant hot water demand at the same time.

Hot Water Usage: Consider showers, washing clothes, washing dishes, and appliances utilizing hot water.

Fuel Type: Electric or gas based on home setup, energy cost, and desire.

Installation Requirements: Some models require venting or upgraded plumbing, so professional installation is a must.

Installation: Why Professional Help Matters

Installation matters to ensure your tankless water heater operates efficiently and safely. Professional, licensed plumbers can:

Correctly size your system for your home’s hot water needs.
Install safely, considering electrical, gas, and plumbing factors.
Optimize the system for energy efficiency.

Improper installation can lead to decreased efficiency, ongoing maintenance issues, or even damage to the unit. Investing in professional tankless water heater installation ensures your system performs at its best.

Maintenance Guidelines for Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters do not need maintenance but will require some care to ensure long-term performance:

Descale on Schedule: Mineral buildup from hard water may happen. Descale the system every year to avoid clogging.

Clean the Filter: Some models come with a water filter that will have to be cleaned every few months.

Check Venting: For gas models, keep venting clear for safe use.

Schedule Professional Checkups: A yearly checkup may detect problems early and prolong the lifespan of your system.

Common Misconceptions About Tankless Water Heaters

Myth 1: They Won’t Provide Hot Water to More Than One Fixture at a Time
Modern tankless water heaters come in whole-house systems that can supply hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously.

Myth 2: They Are Too Expensive
While tankless units are more expensive to install than traditional heaters, energy efficiency, longer system life, and reduced maintenance make them more cost-effective in the long run.

Myth 3: They Are Hard to Use
Following installation, tankless water heaters operate just like their traditional counterparts—simply turn on the faucet for hot water.

FAQs About Tankless Water Heaters

Q: How long do tankless water heaters last?
A: With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters will last 20 years or more, while conventional tank-type units last for 10–15 years.

Q: Can I install a tankless water heater on my own?
A: Professional installation is strongly advised to ensure correct sizing, sufficient venting, and safe performance.

Q: Will a tankless water heater save me money?
A: Yes. Tankless models are more efficient, consuming up to 30% less power, which decreases your monthly cost in the long run.

Q: Are tankless water heaters environmentally friendly?
A: Yes. They save on energy waste and water waste, so they’re a more environmentally friendly choice.

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

If you’re tired of running out of hot water, want to reduce energy costs, or simply want a modern, space-saving solution, a tankless water heater is a smart upgrade. With endless hot water, increased efficiency, and a longer lifespan, it’s an investment that pays off year after year.

Going tankless is more than a convenience—it’s a home improvement that pays off over the long run, increases comfort, saves money, and is friendlier to the environment.

Jun '25

Unlocking Savings with Tankless Water Heaters

Are you looking for ways to make your home more energy-efficient and cut your monthly energy bill? Do you want to do this without needing to make huge sacrifices? Is it possible to make your home more energy-efficient without making major lifestyle changes?

The answer is YES. But to get that outcome, you must employ the right strategies. Minor changes to how you use your home appliances and plumbing system can help. However, the impact of these small actions is tiny compared to the work you have to do to get the results.

If you are serious about energy efficiency in your home, what you need is a clear understanding of how home appliances affect your energy bill, says Keyrenter Premier team. Appliances, especially older ones, can use up more energy than they need to. These inefficiencies add up to hundreds of dollars every year.

This is why it makes sense, when trying to cut your home’s energy consumption, to start the process by taking a closer look at your home appliances. Your number one priority should be to replace the old energy-guzzling appliances with newer energy-efficient models.

The first appliance you want to replace is the storage water heater. Storage water heaters are the most common type of water heater found in homes. They come with a large tank that is used to store heated water until the water is needed inside the home.

The trouble with storage water heaters

Storage water heaters are a bad choice if you want an energy-efficient home. The number one issue with storage water heaters, as far as energy efficiency is concerned, is standby heat loss. This problem stems from how storage water heaters are designed to work.

These water heaters come with tanks that let them hold large volumes of water at all times, and the water must be kept at the preset temperature throughout the day. The problem is the heated water inside the tank is always losing temperature as heat escapes through the tank’s walls.

To maintain the temperature of the already-heated water, it must be reheated nonstop all day long. This happens even when no hot water is being used inside the home, with the result that at every moment, there is a constant flow of heat from your water heater tank into the surroundings.

At the same time, your water heater needs a steady flow of electricity or gas to help it maintain the temperature of the water inside the tank. This is wasted energy that can have a huge impact on your home’s energy bills. Thankfully, there is an alternative: tankless water heaters.

Tankless water heaters and how they can help you save money

Because they have what is known as an “on-demand heating system,” tankless water heaters let you save money. They heat water only when you need it. They do not need to hold large volumes of water in storage or constantly reheat water in anticipation of when it will be needed.

This eliminates standby heat loss along with a host of other issues. The only energy used by a tankless water heater is the energy used to heat the water. Also, there is no excess hot water because the water heater heats just the right amount of hot water for the task.

How much energy can you save by installing a tankless water heater?

Switching to a tankless water heater can result in energy savings of up to 30%. Assuming that your family spends an average of $700 a year on water heating, installing a tankless water heater will let you shave $210 off that annual energy bill, bringing your energy costs to $490.

How much money a tankless water heater saves you depends on the size of your family and your home’s water demand. Large families that use a lot of water will see more substantial savings, and these savings will last throughout the lifespan of the tankless water heater.

In addition to saving money, there are other reasons to switch to tankless water:

Longer life span

Tankless water heaters last longer than traditional water heaters because they are not susceptible to many of the problems that plague storage water heaters. While a hot water tank lasts 10-15 years, a tankless water heater can easily last over 20 years.

Saves space

Storage water heaters are bulky, and there are few places in your home where you can install them. It is not so with tankless water heaters. Because of their size, tankless water heaters are more versatile; you can install them almost anywhere inside your home.

Environmentally friendly

If you want to reduce your home’s environmental footprint, a tankless water heater will help you achieve that. Their minimal energy requirement means they are not a burden to nature.

Finally, before replacing your storage water heater, remember that tankless water heaters come in different sizes. To ensure that the tankless water heater is able to meet your home’s water demands, make sure to have a plumber estimate your home’s needs before buying a tankless water heater.

May '25

Switch Smart: Transitioning to a Tankless Water Heater

Understanding the Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters: A Modern Solution

Tankless water heaters, often referred to as on-demand water heaters, are rapidly gaining popularity due to their innovative design and efficiency. Unlike traditional water heaters that store and heat water continuously, tankless models heat water directly as it flows through the unit. This approach provides hot water only when needed, ensuring a continuous supply without the energy waste associated with maintaining a reservoir of hot water. This efficiency not only reduces energy consumption but also translates into cost savings over time. In addition to their energy-saving benefits, tankless water heaters are compact, freeing up valuable space in your home. They offer a modern solution for households looking to optimize their energy usage while enjoying the convenience of an endless hot water supply.

Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater for Your Home: Key Considerations

Selecting the right tankless water heater is a critical step in transitioning from a traditional system. Several factors should be considered to ensure you choose a model that fits your household’s needs. First, assess the size of your household and your water usage patterns. A larger family with higher hot water demands will require a unit with a higher flow rate. Additionally, consider the climate in your area, as this can affect the heater’s efficiency. Consulting with a professional can provide valuable insights into selecting a heater with the appropriate flow rate and efficiency rating. It’s also important to choose the right fuel type—electric or gas—as this decision impacts both the installation process and long-term operating costs. Each fuel type has its advantages and considerations, so understanding your home’s infrastructure and energy goals will guide your choice.

Preparing for Installation: Essential Steps and Considerations

The installation of a tankless water heater requires careful preparation. Unlike traditional heaters, tankless units often necessitate modifications to your home’s plumbing and electrical systems. Before proceeding with installation, ensure that your home is equipped to support the new system. This may involve upgrading gas lines, increasing electrical capacity, or modifying plumbing layouts. Hiring a water heater installation specialist is advisable, as they can assess your home’s infrastructure and make necessary adjustments to comply with local building codes and safety standards. Proper preparation not only ensures a smooth installation process but also maximizes the efficiency and safety of your new system.

Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

The installation of a tankless water heater involves several key steps. Initially, the old water heater is removed, and any necessary adjustments to your plumbing and electrical systems are made. The new unit is then securely mounted to the wall and connected to both the water and power supply. Testing the system is a crucial step to ensure it operates efficiently and safely. A professional installer will check for leaks, verify temperature settings, and ensure that the unit is functioning correctly before completing the installation. This thorough process ensures that your tankless water heater is ready to provide reliable and efficient hot water for years to come.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Efficiency: Keeping Your System in Top Shape

Regular maintenance is essential to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your tankless water heater. Routine tasks include cleaning the unit to remove mineral buildup, checking filters, and inspecting the venting system for obstructions. It’s recommended to schedule annual maintenance checks with a professional to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, staying informed about the manufacturer’s guidelines and warranty conditions can help you address any issues promptly and effectively. By maintaining your system properly, you can enjoy consistent hot water and energy savings over the long term.

a professionally installed tankless water heater

By considering both the upfront costs and the long-term benefits, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial and energy goals.

Cost Considerations: Balancing Initial Investment with Long-Term Savings

While the initial cost of a tankless water heater can be higher than that of a traditional model, the long-term savings are significant. Tankless heaters are more energy-efficient, reducing monthly utility bills. Additionally, their longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements can offset the initial investment over time. It’s important to factor in these savings when evaluating the overall cost of transitioning to a tankless system. By considering both the upfront costs and the long-term benefits, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial and energy goals.

Environmental Impact: Choosing a Tankless Water Heater for a Sustainable Future

Choosing a tankless water heater is not only beneficial for your household but also for the environment. By consuming less energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, tankless heaters contribute to a more sustainable future. Their compact design also minimizes material usage and waste. For environmentally conscious homeowners, transitioning to a tankless system aligns with green living principles and supports efforts to reduce carbon footprints. By making this choice, you are not only enhancing your home’s efficiency but also contributing to a healthier planet.

Common Challenges and Solutions in Transitioning: Overcoming Obstacles with Ease

Switching to a tankless water heater can present challenges, such as initial installation complexity and adapting to new technology. However, these can be overcome with proper planning and professional guidance. Understanding potential issues, such as fluctuating water temperatures or inadequate flow rates, can help you address them effectively. Engaging with experienced technicians and utilizing online resources can provide solutions and ensure a smooth transition. By anticipating challenges and preparing accordingly, you can enjoy the benefits of your new system without unnecessary complications.

Future-Proofing Your Home with Tankless Technology: Embracing Innovation

Investing in a tankless water heater installation is a step towards future-proofing your home. As technology advances, these systems are becoming increasingly efficient and adaptable. By choosing a tankless heater, you are preparing your home for future innovations in energy efficiency and smart home integration. Staying informed about new developments in tankless technology can help you make the most of your investment and keep your home at the forefront of modern energy solutions. Embracing this technology not only enhances your home’s efficiency but also positions you to take advantage of future advancements.

Conclusion: Making the Switch with Confidence and Assurance

Transitioning to a tankless water heater is a smart choice for homeowners seeking efficiency, sustainability, and modern convenience. With careful selection, professional installation, and regular maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of endless hot water and reduced energy costs. By understanding the process and preparing adequately, you can make the switch with confidence, ensuring a seamless transition to a more efficient and future-ready home. Embrace the change and enjoy the numerous advantages that a tankless water heater brings to your household.

May '25

Tankless Water Heaters: Efficiency at the Forefront of Home Technology

Among the rapidly evolving trends in home technology, tankless water heaters are a game-altering innovation, a new standard for water heating in homes. While traditional water heaters decline in popularity against more efficient alternatives, tankless systems take center stage with unparalleled efficiency and ease of use. Here we aim to provide an extensive description of how tankless water heaters revolutionize the landscape of home technology by highlighting their efficiency, benefits, and future directions.

Learning About Tankless Water Heaters: A Technology Marvel

Tankless water heaters or on-demand water heaters heat water only when needed, unlike traditional systems that have reservoirs and continuously heat gallons of water. This simple difference in operation is why tankless water heaters are a marvel of modern technology. Without the storage tank, the systems use significantly less energy, resulting in lower utility bills and an eco-friendlier home.

Efficiency in the Core: Why On-Demand Water Heaters Make the Most of Energy Usage

The efficiency of tankless water heaters is largely attributed to their ability to provide hot water instantaneously. Traditional water heaters maintain a reservoir of hot water, which requires constant energy to keep heated. In contrast, tankless systems activate only when a hot water tap is turned on, heating the water as it flows through the unit. This on-demand heating mechanism ensures that energy is used only when necessary, making tankless water heaters up to 30% more efficient than conventional models.

Economic Benefits: Saving Money with On-Demand Water Heaters

The economic benefit of tankless water heaters is quite possibly the most compelling reason why numerous homeowners are adopting them. The price tag of a tankless system is in the beginning slightly higher than a standard heater, but saving money in the long run is colossal. Lower energy consumption translates to lower utility bills each month, and the lifespan of on-demand water heaters tends to be longer, lowering replacement costs and frequency. Governments also offer incentives and rebates for residential upgrades that save energy, partially recouping the initial cost.

Space-Saving Design: Getting More from Home Space with Tankless Systems

Another advantage of tankless on-demand water heaters is that they are space-saving in nature. As they don’t need the huge storage tank, the system can be placed in smaller spaces, freeing up valuable square footage space in the house. It is particularly helpful for urban dwellers and for those who enjoy less housing space, allowing them to enjoy more interior design and home planning flexibility.

Environmental Impact: Encouraging Sustainability with Tankless Technology

As people become more aware of their global surroundings and the environment, homeowners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. On-demand water heaters help them achieve this goal by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Being more efficient with energy and requiring less resource input to operate and maintain, tankless water heaters are a green option for those caring about the earth.

Installation and Maintenance: Ensuring Optimal Performance

Proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial to ensuring the optimal performance of tankless water heaters. Professional tankless water heater installation is recommended to ensure the system is configured correctly and safely. Maintenance typically involves periodic cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and ensure efficient operation. Regular inspections can also help identify potential issues before they become major problems, extending the lifespan of the unit.

Comparative Analysis: Tankless Water Heaters vs. Traditional Systems

In comparing tankless water heaters with traditional systems, several inherent differences can be observed. Efficiency is higher with tankless systems because they offer demand-based service. However, traditional heaters might be more appropriate for homes where there are intensive simultaneous hot water demands, since they supply hot water to multiple outlets at the same time. The choice between the two typically depends on household size, habits of using hot water, and finances.

a professionally installed on-demand water heater

The tankless demand feature delivers hot water where and when it is needed, without the lag that takes place in conventional systems

Future Trends: The Evolving Face of Home Water Heating

The future of domestic hot water heating will be dictated by smart technologies and higher efficiency. Tankless water heaters will likely be integrated into smart home systems, which can be operated and monitored from a distance. Emerging material and design technologies can potentially make them even more efficient and durable. With advances in technology, tankless systems will likely become less expensive, and their distribution will increase to the masses.

Technological Improvements: Increasing Tankless Water Heater Efficiency

Recent advances in technology have also enhanced the efficiency of tankless water heaters. Such technologies as modulating burners allow for control of the heating process with high precision, altering the size of the flame in proportion to the flow rate of the water and degree of temperature required. This saves energy wastage, in addition to effective heating of the water to desired temperature. Additionally, advancements in heat exchanger designs have maximized heat transfer, reducing energy loss and maximizing overall system efficiency.

User Experience: Convenience of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters provide the user with an experience of convenience that conventional systems cannot offer. Because they can provide hot water at any given time, homeowners will not worry about their home experiencing the lack of hot water in the middle of showering or the laundry cycle. The tankless demand feature delivers hot water where and when it is needed, without the lag that takes place in conventional systems. Such convenience is particularly useful for households with more than two people or households demanding high volumes of hot water.

Market Trends: The Growing Popularity of On-Demand Water Heaters

Demand for on-demand water heaters has been steadily rising with more people becoming aware of their benefits. According to industry reports, tankless system sales should continue to increase as energy costs go up and going green becomes a priority. Industry manufacturers are fulfilling the demand by offering more models and variations, from small residential applications to more significant residential designs. As the market expands, consumers can expect more variety and improved pricing, which makes on-demand water heaters an attractive choice for more homeowners.

Challenges and Considerations: Switching to Tankless Systems

While tankless water heaters offer numerous benefits, there are also challenges and considerations to keep in mind when making the switch. The initial cost of installation can be higher than traditional systems, and some homes may require upgrades to their electrical or gas infrastructure to accommodate a tankless unit. Additionally, proper sizing is crucial to ensure that the system can meet the household’s hot water needs. Homeowners should speak with a plumber who specializes in water heater installation to assess their specific requirements and determine the most suitable tankless system for their home.

Global Impact: On-Demand Water Heaters and Energy Conservation

The application of tankless water heaters contributes positively to global energy conservation. By saving energy and greenhouse gas emissions, tankless systems also contribute to a better tomorrow. As more and more houses go tankless, the cumulative effect can lead to gigantic amounts of energy and carbon emission savings, contributing towards global efforts to fight climate change. On-demand water heaters are therefore not only an intelligent choice for individual homeowners but also an earth-friendly choice.

Conclusion: Embracing the Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are a household technology revolution, promising efficiency, economic efficiencies, and environmental friendliness. As more homeowners learn about the advantages of these devices, on-demand water heaters will become a standard appliance in modern homes. Embracing this technology, households can make hot water available with ease while contributing towards a greener future.

Apr '25

How Tankless Water Heaters Improve Your Chicago Home’s Energy Usage

Water heaters are an essential appliance for Chicago homes. A functioning water heater makes everyday activities like dishwashing and laundry easier or even fun, says IPM Property Solutions. During winter, your water heater can be a literal lifesaver.

But water heaters use a lot of energy. A large part of your home’s energy bill is from the gas or electricity used to power the water heater. Given the high cost of electricity and gas, high energy usage by a water heater is a major problem for homeowners.

Is it possible to cut your water heater’s energy usage?

You can with a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters help to reduce the amount of money you spend monthly to heat water in your home. What’s more? You can achieve lower energy usage by your water heater without having to limit your family’s access to hot water.

What is a tankless water heater, and how does installing one in your Chicago home help to make the home more energy-efficient?

How a tankless water heater works

The water heater found in an average American home comes with a large tank that is used to store heated water until the water is needed. This traditional water heater, also known as a storage water heater, is commonly found in basements, attics, and garages.

But it is not the only kind of water heater available. There is a different and newer type of water heater known as an instantaneous or on-demand water heater. This new type of water heater does not come with a storage tank, which is why it is called a tankless water heater.

Tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed. Instead of preheating water and storing it in a tank for later use, a tankless water heater heats water immediately after any faucet inside the home is turned. Water is passed through a heat exchanger to rapidly raise its temperature.

This design ensures the home has a constant supply of hot water without the need to store preheated water inside a large tank. As a result, tankless water heaters use less energy without a negative impact on the comfort of residents.

How tankless water heaters help you save energy

Tankless water heaters save energy by eliminating standby heat loss. Standby heat loss is a major problem for storage water heaters because they have to constantly reheat the water inside their tank to maintain its temperature. Tankless water heaters don’t suffer from this problem.

Depending on the size of your home and how much water your household uses, a tankless water heater will improve your home’s energy efficiency by as much as 30%. If the tankless water heater is gas-powered, you can expect it to be 22% more efficient than a traditional water heater.

For small households that use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily, the improvement in energy efficiency with a tankless water heater is 24% – 34%. For larger homes that use 86+ gallons of hot water per day, they can expect an 8% – 14% improvement in energy efficiency.

But this is not the only way a tankless water heater saves you money. Another cost-saving benefit of installing a tankless water heater is that it lasts longer than traditional water heaters. This is partly because tankless water heaters are less vulnerable to rust and leakage.

Where a traditional water heater may be expected to last 10 -15 years, a tankless water heater will easily retain its function for 20 years. At the same time, the cost of maintaining the tankless water heater is lower because the parts are easily replaceable.

Tankless water heaters also take up less space. Being a lot smaller than traditional water heaters, they are perfect for homes that are short on space. Indeed, installing one in any home will free up lots of storage space in the garage, basement, etc.

What to know before buying a tankless water heater

Your home’s hot water demand

Before buying a tankless water heater, you should know the flow rate and temperature rise needed to keep appliances and plumbing fixtures adequately supplied. For instance, how many gallons per minute (GPM) of hot water does your shower use?

Choose your energy option

Electric or gas-powered tankless water heater? It depends on your energy efficiency goals and installation requirements. Gas tankless water heaters are more efficient and can handle higher flow rates but have higher installation requirements.

The Energy Efficiency rating

You can determine a tankless water heater’s energy rating by looking at its uniform energy factor (UEF). This is a measure of how much energy is needed to power the appliance and heat water. Higher UEF appliances are more energy-efficient.

Installation location

Do you plan to install your tankless water heater indoors or outdoors? Indoor units need less maintenance than outdoor units, but they may require you to alter your plumbing and add a drain connection.

Finally, due to the complexity of installing a tankless water heater and for your safety, it is always recommended to let a plumber install the appliance. Moreover, a professional will ensure that you buy a tankless water heater that fully meets your home’s needs.