There isn’t only one way to install a water heater in your home, and some people find that they prefer the kind without tanks. As a less common type of water heater, information about it is not widely known to homeowners. However, as you learn about it, you may decide that it’s right for you.

What Is a Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless water heaters get water directly from the source to which your home is connected rather than drawing it from a waiting tank. When you turn on your faucet, a gas burner or electric component heats the water as it’s pushed through the pipe—rather than heating the water inside a tank. This is what sets it apart from water heaters that rely on storage tanks, which keeps water heated on standby and refills itself when you turn on the faucet.

What Are the Advantages & Disadvantages of a Tankless Water Heater?

Although they’re typically more expensive upfront, tankless water heaters usually last longer than other types. Furthermore, since they only provide hot water as necessary, they don’t incur the same energy costs as others do, which means they can save you money  in the long term, especially if you ask your HVAC contractor to include a standing pilot light that you can turn off when you don’t need it. The water is also instantly hot when it leaves your faucet, so you don’t have to wait for it to reach the temperature you want. Plus, tankless water heaters are more compact and take up less space.

On the other hand, the water flow rate is lower. It’s also difficult to pump instantly hot water from multiple faucets or pipes at once, meaning that you might have to be comfortable taking a cold shower if you’re running the dishwasher at the same time. This problem can be overcome by installing an individual tankless water heater for each appliance that uses hot water, provided you feel it would be worth the cost. In fact, doing so would be good for your overall energy bill.

If you’re ready to install a tankless water heater or want to learn more about it, contact Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service in Kalispell, MT. As an HVAC contractor that also offers plumbing service, they are experts in knowing what type of water heater would work best for your home. Schedule an appointment today by calling (406) 752-1244 or visiting them online.