Burdened by high energy costs? Are you thinking about making the switch from a conventional water heater to a tankless model? There are plenty of reasons to consider doing so. Before making the change and investing in a new tankless water heater, consider the following pros and cons:

The Pros of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

  • A tankless water heater provides your house with a constant supply of hot water.
  • Tankless water heaters are small enough to be installed under cabinets, in closets, on walls or even outdoors, with the use of an anti-freeze kit.
  • With a tankless unit, you avoid the risk of flooding due to a ruptured tank.
  • Tankless water heaters allow you to consume less energy because tankless water heaters only need enough power to heat water as it’s being used.
  • Tankless water heaters are more efficient and don’t experience standby heat loss.
  • Some tankless water heater units come with a federal tax rebate. You can get up to $300 off installation!
  • A tankless unit allows you to save on your bill (up to 20 percent!) by using less energy.
  • Tankless water heaters can last longer than storage water heaters—sometimes as much as five to ten years longer.

The Cons of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

  • Tankless water heaters can save you money on your energy bill in the long run, but they also require a greater initial financial investment upfront.
  • It may take several minutes for your water to warm up to an acceptable temperature.
  • The stainless steel tubing required for venting gas or propane units can be expensive.
  • If you choose a tankless water heater unit that requires gas, you may have to add a secondary natural gas line to supply your water heater with enough fuel.
  • Regarding installation, the cost per tankless unit can vary depending on the specific pipework of your home.

Before moving forward and investing in a new water heater, we encourage you to compare your options and consider tankless technology. Refer to the yellow Energy Guide stickers on your current water heater and the tankless model you’re considering—this will help you come to a decision regarding which model will suit your needs better. Weigh all expense factors, including possibly adding a gas line or electrical circuit, in addition to any environmental concerns you may have.

Check out the video below, where Benjamin Franklin Plumbing’s Keresa Richardson speaks to Good Morning Texas about tankless water heaters:

If you have any questions concerning tankless water heaters, don’t hesitate to call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Our experts are prepared to answer your questions and provide professional water heater installation services. Ben Franklin Plumbing can also assist you with easy financing to keep your initial out-of-pocket expenditures to a minimum.