When it comes to upgrading your home’s water heating system, Calgary homeowners are increasingly turning to tankless water heaters. These compact, energy-efficient units provide hot water on demand without the need for a bulky storage tank. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know if a tankless water heater is right for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the reasons, benefits, considerations, and installation process for tankless water heaters, and why they may be the perfect solution for your Calgary home.
At ERM Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in helping Calgary residents find the right water heater for their homes. Whether you're upgrading your old tank-style unit or building a new home, tankless water heaters offer many advantages, especially when it comes to energy efficiency, space savings, and hot water availability.
Unlike traditional water heaters, which store and continuously heat a large volume of water, a tankless water heater heats water only when you need it. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows through the unit, where it’s heated by an electric element or gas burner before exiting the faucet. This on-demand heating system eliminates the need for a storage tank, which can save valuable space in your home.
Tankless water heaters are also known as “on-demand” water heaters because they heat water only when it’s needed, providing an endless supply of hot water as long as the unit is appropriately sized for your household needs.
One of the most appealing features of tankless water heaters is their ability to provide an endless supply of hot water. Since these systems don’t store hot water like traditional heaters, you never have to worry about running out. Whether you're running multiple showers or filling the bathtub, the water heater heats water on demand, so you'll never run out mid-shower.
In Calgary’s cold winters, energy efficiency is essential. Tankless water heaters are much more energy-efficient than traditional models, which continuously heat a large tank of water, often wasting energy. With a tankless system, water is only heated when needed, which can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower utility bills.
On average, tankless water heaters are 30% more energy-efficient than their tank-based counterparts. Some models can be even more efficient when combined with smart thermostats and high-efficiency gas burners.
Calgary homeowners can especially benefit from the compact size of tankless water heaters. Traditional water heaters take up significant space in basements or utility rooms, but tankless systems are small enough to be mounted on the wall, freeing up floor space for other uses. Whether you’re in a small home or simply want to reclaim some square footage, tankless water heaters offer a convenient and space-efficient solution.
A properly maintained tankless water heater can last 20+ years, which is significantly longer than the 10-15 years typical for traditional tank water heaters. Their longevity is due to the fact that there is no storage tank that can corrode or rust over time. Plus, tankless systems are generally easier to repair and maintain, contributing to their long lifespan.
One of the downsides of traditional water heaters is the risk of leaks or ruptures, which can cause flooding and water damage. Because tankless water heaters don’t have a storage tank, the risk of water damage is virtually eliminated. This can give homeowners peace of mind, especially when installing the unit in tight spaces or basements.
Tankless water heaters are a greener option for eco-conscious homeowners. By reducing energy consumption and eliminating the need for bulky tanks that can take up space and require more materials to manufacture, tankless systems contribute to a more sustainable home. Many tankless units are also made with recyclable components, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
While tankless water heaters come with many benefits, there are several factors to consider before installing one in your Calgary home.
Tankless water heaters typically have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional tank water heaters. However, the energy savings over time can offset the initial investment. On average, homeowners may save 20-30% on their energy bills. Additionally, the longer lifespan of tankless systems means fewer replacement costs over the years.
The most important consideration when choosing a tankless water heater is ensuring the unit is properly sized for your household. A system that is too small may struggle to meet your hot water needs, especially during peak usage times. On the other hand, an oversized unit could be inefficient and costly.
A licensed plumber, like those at ERM Plumbing & Heating, can assess your household’s hot water usage and recommend the appropriate size and model for your needs. For larger homes with multiple bathrooms or high-demand appliances, a whole-house tankless system may be necessary. For smaller homes or apartments, a point-of-use tankless system for one or two taps may be sufficient.
To accommodate a tankless water heater, some homes may need minor upgrades to their existing plumbing or electrical systems. Gas-powered tankless systems, for example, may require a larger gas line, while electric models may need a dedicated circuit to handle the increased demand.
Calgary’s winter temperatures can be extremely cold, which can affect the performance of tankless water heaters. When water temperatures drop significantly in the colder months, tankless heaters may take longer to heat the water to your desired temperature. Fortunately, many modern tankless systems come with built-in technology to prevent freezing and adjust heating based on water temperature.
For homes in Calgary, it's important to choose a high-performance tankless water heater that is designed to handle colder climates and maintain efficiency during the winter months.
When selecting a tankless water heater, it's crucial to choose a unit that meets the specific needs of your household. Consider the following:
Installing and maintaining a tankless water heater requires professional expertise. At ERM Plumbing & Heating, our experienced plumbers can help you with the entire process—from selecting the right unit to installation and regular maintenance.
Installation: Proper installation is key to maximizing the lifespan and efficiency of your tankless water heater. Our certified plumbers will ensure that your unit is sized correctly and installed according to local building codes and manufacturer guidelines.
Maintenance: Although tankless systems require less maintenance than traditional units, it’s still important to have them serviced regularly. Routine maintenance includes descaling the unit to prevent mineral buildup and ensuring all parts are functioning correctly.
Repairs: If your tankless water heater is malfunctioning, our team is here to help. We offer repair services for all makes and models of tankless systems, addressing issues such as no hot water, inconsistent temperatures, and strange noises.
If you're considering a tankless water heater for your Calgary home, let the experts at ERM Plumbing & Heating guide you through the process. Our experienced plumbers can help you select the perfect unit, install it efficiently, and provide ongoing maintenance to keep it running smoothly for years to come. Contact ERM Plumbing & Heating today for professional tankless water heater installation and service in Calgary!
