When choosing a water heater for your facility, you want to select a system that can meet the demand for hot water, while increasing energy efficiency and cutting operational costs. Two of the more popular options are conventional storage tank water heaters and tankless water heaters.
Storage tank water heaters are the most commonly installed units because they have a lower up-front cost and provide a dependable source of hot water. Water is preheated and stored in a tank, ready for use whenever occupants need hot water. As the supply is depleted, the tank again refills and heats the water. Energy sources can be propane, natural gas, solar, or electric.
Tankless water heaters heat water instantly, using either a gas burner or an electric element. This affords a constant supply of hot water on demand, avoiding the hot water supply depletion and stand-by heat losses associated with storage tank units. Fuel sources can be natural gas or electricity.
Is a Tankless (“Instant Hot”) Water Heater Right for Your Facility?
Location: Electric tankless units must be installed within roughly 50 feet of a power source and in some cases, may require electrical upgrades. However, due to their smaller size, they may be an ideal option when space is limited. This also allows for more creative installations, utilizing non-traditional areas of your facility for water heater placement.
Life Cycle: Most tankless systems will operate for more than 20 years, roughly twice as long as storage tank water heaters.
Maintenance: Factors, like calcium buildup, can decrease the performance of a tankless water heater and damage the system. Annual maintenance and inspection by a qualified technician is recommended, making tankless units more expensive to maintain.
Energy Efficiency: Tankless units operate only when hot water is requested, unlike conventional water heaters which maintain a constantly heated source of water.
Investment: Tankless units do cost quite a bit more up front, for purchase and installation, but are less expensive to operate in the long run. There may also be energy efficiency rebates and tax credits to help you offset the cost.
Environmental Considerations: The longer lifespan and recyclable parts of the tankless heater translates to fewer parts in the landfill.
Both systems can offer advantages, depending upon the unique needs of your facility. If you are considering a new water heater, let a ConServ representative help you determine whether a storage or tankless model is right for you. Contact your local branch for more information.
ConServ Building Services, LLC provides excellent commercial HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, and general construction services to businesses across the Southeastern United States. To learn more about ConServ, visit www.conservonline.com.