Debunking Common Myths About Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters have been growing in popularity over the years, offering homeowners energy efficiency, on-demand hot water, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank water heaters. However, like many newer technologies, there are myths and misconceptions surrounding tankless water heaters that can make potential buyers hesitant to make the switch. At Sanders Plumbing HVAC, we want to help clear up some of the most common tankless water heater myths, so you can make an informed decision for your home’s water heating needs. We’ll debunk the top myths about tankless water heaters and explain the benefits they offer compared to conventional water heaters.

Myth 1: Tankless Water Heaters Don’t Provide Enough Hot Water

One of the most persistent myths about tankless water heaters is that they can’t provide enough hot water to meet the needs of a household, especially when multiple fixtures are in use. Some people believe that tankless units struggle to keep up when several appliances, such as showers, dishwashers, and washing machines, are running simultaneously.

The Reality: Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, which means they don’t store hot water like traditional tanks. However, this doesn’t mean they can’t meet the hot water demands of your home. Modern tankless water heaters are designed to deliver a continuous flow of hot water for as long as you need it. The key is to size the unit properly for your home’s hot water usage. In larger homes or homes with multiple bathrooms, installing more than one tankless unit or using a higher-capacity model can ensure you never run out of hot water, even with multiple appliances running.

Myth 2: Tankless Water Heaters Are Too Expensive

Another common myth is that tankless water heaters are far more expensive than traditional water heaters, making them out of reach for many homeowners. The assumption is that the initial cost of a tankless system outweighs the potential savings.

The Reality: While the upfront cost of a tankless water heater may be higher than that of a traditional tank water heater, tankless units tend to be more cost-effective in the long run. Traditional water heaters constantly heat and reheat water to maintain a set temperature, leading to "standby heat loss" and higher energy bills. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only heat water when you need it, resulting in significant energy savings. Many homeowners find that their energy savings over time offset the higher initial cost of the unit. Additionally, tankless water heaters often last longer than traditional tank models—up to 20 years compared to 10-15 years for tank heaters—making them a worthwhile investment.

Myth 3: Tankless Water Heaters Are Difficult to Maintain

Some people worry that because tankless water heaters are more advanced than traditional models, they require complicated maintenance that homeowners won’t be able to handle on their own.

The Reality: Tankless water heaters are actually quite easy to maintain. In fact, they require less maintenance than traditional water heaters, which often need to be flushed regularly to prevent sediment buildup in the tank. With a tankless water heater, there is no tank for sediment to build up in. However, depending on your water quality, you may need to flush the heat exchanger of a tankless unit once a year to prevent scale buildup, especially if you have hard water. This process is simple, and routine maintenance for tankless water heaters is not significantly different from maintaining a traditional unit.

Myth 4: Tankless Water Heaters Don’t Work in Cold Climates

Another misconception is that tankless water heaters are ineffective in cold climates because they can’t heat cold groundwater fast enough to supply hot water.

The Reality: Tankless water heaters are designed to work in all climates, including cold ones. Modern tankless units can adjust the heating output based on the temperature of the incoming water. While the unit may need to work harder to heat colder water, it can still deliver a steady stream of hot water, even in colder climates. The key, once again, is choosing the right size and model for your home’s specific needs. Installing the proper unit ensures that you have hot water no matter the weather or how cold your groundwater is.

Myth 5: Tankless Water Heaters Are Only for Small Homes

Some homeowners believe that tankless water heaters are only suited for small homes or apartments where water usage is minimal. The myth suggests that larger homes with higher water demands are better off with traditional tank heaters.

The Reality: Tankless water heaters can be installed in homes of all sizes. While they are certainly ideal for smaller homes with lower water demands, larger homes can also benefit from tankless units by installing multiple units or using a high-capacity model. Many homeowners with large households opt for whole-house tankless systems or install point-of-use tankless water heaters near high-demand areas like bathrooms or kitchens. This ensures that every area of the home has access to an unlimited supply of hot water.

Myth 6: Tankless Water Heaters Are Not Reliable

Another common myth is that tankless water heaters are less reliable than traditional tank models and more prone to malfunctioning.

The Reality: Tankless water heaters are highly reliable when properly installed and maintained. In fact, they often outperform traditional models in terms of longevity and efficiency. Because they only heat water on demand, tankless units don’t experience the same wear and tear as traditional tanks, which are constantly heating and reheating water. As a result, tankless systems tend to last longer and require fewer repairs over their lifetime. When issues do arise, they are often related to installation errors, which is why it’s crucial to have a professional plumber handle the installation.

Myth 7: Tankless Water Heaters Provide Instant Hot Water

One of the most appealing benefits of a tankless water heater is the idea of "instant" hot water. However, some homeowners assume that tankless units will deliver hot water the moment they turn on the tap, which isn’t always the case.

The Reality: While tankless water heaters do provide hot water on demand, there is still a slight delay as the water travels from the heater to your faucet. The time it takes to get hot water depends on the distance between the tankless unit and the fixture you’re using. In some cases, installing a recirculation pump or locating the tankless unit closer to high-demand areas can reduce the wait time for hot water. However, tankless water heaters are still faster and more efficient than traditional tanks when it comes to delivering hot water.

Tankless Water Heaters Offer Long-Term Savings and Efficiency

Despite the myths surrounding tankless water heaters, they are a highly efficient and reliable option for homeowners looking to save money and reduce energy usage. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings and extended lifespan make tankless water heaters a smart investment. Whether you live in a small home or a large one, there’s a tankless water heater option that can meet your needs.

At Sanders Plumbing HVAC, we specialize in helping homeowners choose the right water heating solutions for their needs. If you’re considering switching to a tankless water heater or need advice on maintaining your current system, our team of professionals is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of tankless water heaters and schedule a consultation!