The simple joys of life, such as a warm bath on a chilly winter morning or washing up after a hard day’s work, are made possible by one unsung hero – the water heater. Traditional storage tank water heaters have served us well over the years, but in this era of energy consciousness and technological advancement, there is a new sheriff in town – the tankless water heater.

In this blog, we’ll explore why you should consider switching to a tankless water heater from the viewpoint of a UK plumber with years of experience. We’ll also look at the benefits of this transition and understand how this choice can lead to energy efficiency, cost savings, and more.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Before we dive into the reasons, let’s first understand what a tankless water heater is. Unlike traditional storage tank heaters that heat water and store it for later use, tankless water heaters (also known as on-demand or instant water heaters) heat the water directly as it flows through the unit. Therefore, they eliminate the need for a storage tank and provide hot water only when it’s needed.

Energy Efficiency

The most compelling reason to switch to a tankless water heater is its energy efficiency. Traditional water heaters are constantly working to maintain the temperature of the water in the tank, which means they are using energy even when you’re not using hot water. This process is known as “standby heat loss,” and it’s a primary reason why storage tank heaters are less efficient.

On the other hand, tankless water heaters only heat water when it’s needed, significantly reducing the amount of wasted energy. According to the Energy Saving Trust, an average household could save between £75 and £100 per year by switching to a tankless water heater.

Space Saving

Traditional water heaters are bulky and take up a significant amount of space in your home. Conversely, tankless water heaters are much smaller, often the size of a suitcase, and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up floor space.

Longer Lifespan

Another factor to consider is that tankless water heaters typically last longer than their tank-based counterparts. Traditional water heaters last around 10-15 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years if maintained correctly.

Endless Supply of Hot Water

We’ve all been there – in the middle of a shower, the hot water suddenly runs out because someone else in the house also decided to take a shower or run the washing machine. With a tankless water heater, this problem is virtually eliminated because the water is heated on demand, providing an endless supply of hot water.

Environmentally Friendly

In today’s world, where sustainability is paramount, tankless water heaters are an excellent choice. They are more efficient, use less energy, and therefore have a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, many tankless heaters are made from recyclable materials, further contributing to their environmentally-friendly status.

Final Thoughts

Switching to a tankless water heater is not just a trend; it is an investment in a more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly future. However, the initial costs can be higher than traditional systems, and the benefits may vary depending on your household’s hot water usage patterns.

As experienced plumbers in the UK, we recommend you weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs and circumstances before making a decision. We’re always here to provide guidance and expert installation to ensure you get the most out of your new water heating system.

Remember, the change might seem significant, but the benefits are comprehensive, leading to a smarter, more sustainable home environment.