Nothing is better than a relaxing, hot shower to help you unwind at the end of a rough day at work. However, it is tough to destress when you have to keep worrying about running out of hot water. With condensing tankless water heaters, you need not hassle about keeping the water levels in check.
It is easy to confuse the numerous water heater types in the market when you aren’t an expert. This article will introduce you to the basics and answer the question of what is acondensing tankless water heaters. Once you understand its various features and uses, forget high utility bills. Here are the many pros, cons, benefits, and distinguishing factors of condensing tankless water heaters.
What Are Tankless Water Heaters?
Before understanding “what is a condensing tankless water heater,” it would be a good idea to polish the basics. Let us learn more about tankless water heaters and how they work.
Ever since mankind has begun using water heaters, tanks for storage have been a must when it comes to the device. However, the recent technological revolution has led to several changes in the water heating industry.
Modern tankless water heaters do not store water and heat it continuously like tank-based ones. Instead, tankless heaters use heating technology that will instantly warm up your water on demand. These devices serve a dual purpose as they reduce wasteful practices and gradually lower your energy bills.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
These heaters possess a heating element that warms up the water as it passes through the machine when you need it. Most tankless heating devices use either gas or electricity to perform this job.
So, when you turn on the faucet, cold water enters the machine. It triggers the heating element, which turns it into hot water and sends it through the faucet. You can usually control the temperature of the water by adjusting both hot and cold water faucets.
Understanding Condensing Tankless Water Heaters
Condensing tankless water heaters take the energy-saver game one step up from regular tankless heaters. These heaters use a heating element and also a condensing element. The condenser in these heaters turns the exhaust gas into water vapor that exits through the drain. This speeds up the process while reducing your power usage.
Benefits of Condensing Tankless Water Heaters
If the previous sections have not given you an idea of why these heaters are helpful, we made a list. The following benefits of condensing tankless water heaters will convince you to purchase them if you are on the fence.
Endless Supply
First and foremost, the top benefit of a condensing tankless water heater is its endless hot water supply. As long as a water connection is available for the heater, it will provide relaxing hot shower water.
A warm bath with no pauses is every man’s dream after a long day. So, once you get one of these heaters, forget about waiting for the water tank to refill mid-shower.
Energy Efficiency
While heaters without a condensing element do not utilize the exhaust gas, these do. So, these heaters work fast by ensuring the total usage of all factors and redirecting them toward heating your water. a
Faster heating results in running the device for shorter periods and lesser energy consumption. This benefit provides much aid to your wallet.
Easy Installation
Another perk of using these heaters is their compact and lightweight nature. They are great space-savers and also easy to install. You need not deal with any technical hassle while putting up a tankless water heater in your home.
Better Durability
Buying a water heater is a long-term investment. So, users would seek something that would last. Since condensing tankless heaters use a lighter mechanism than tank-based ones, they run more smoothly. This feature plays a role in extending the device’s lifespan.
Minimal Carbon Footprint
While the heater’s efficiency helps you save time and money, it also guards the environment. The exhaust gas redirected towards the water will not escape into nature and directly affect our ecosystem. These heaters minimize the release of greenhouse gasses and leave behind minimal carbon footprints.
Factors to Look for When Buying Condensing Tankless Water Heaters
Before buying any product, it is vital to conduct extensive research to choose wisely. We saved you some time and listed the several factors you must look for while shopping for these heaters.
Makers
The makers and the brand of a product make much difference in its quality and efficiency. You should always ensure shopping from reputable brands as they provide accountability for their products. Buying from notable companies also ensures following the necessary safety practices during production. So, you will receive a high-quality water heater that gives you maximum safety.
Model Type
Another factor to look for is what kind of model you are purchasing. Learn about its heating element and what suits your needs. These devices majorly use gas and electricity. While both options are equally good, one might fit your needs more than the other. If you are focusing on efficiency, electric heaters are your ideal choice. However, gas heaters are cheaper to run.
Budget
Lastly, the cost is another prime factor. Financial planning is a vital element of home planning and shopping. You must set a proper budget and look for products within the range. However, mind not to compromise.
It is crucial not to settle for lower-quality products just because they are cheaper. Inefficient water heaters cost you more in the long run and are potentially hazardous to your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common issue with tankless water heaters?
While the best perk of tankless heaters is their endless supply, factors like improper sizing and mineral buildup disrupt it. Issues like high demand and dirt buildup in the unit can also result in inadequate water supply. You can resolve these common issues by taking proper measures like size maintenance and regular cleaning.
Where should a tankless water heater not be installed?
You must ensure not to install tankless heaters in unkempt conditions, especially in cold climates. The device machinery freezes quickly when in cold attics or corners. So, before installation, provide enough insulation for the machine and use antifreeze to increase longevity.
How much condensate does a condensing tankless water heater produce?
Various factors determine the amount of condensate a tankless water heater might require. These factors include fuel type, surroundings, device size, and more. However, a general estimate measures that these devices produce 2-3 gallons of condensate hourly. Although, gas heaters might occasionally use more condensate than their electric counterparts.
How much space do tankless water heaters need?
The space a tankless water heater requires varies per model. However, since these devices do not use heavy tanks for storage, they are much more compact than traditional heaters. You can mount them on walls or even store the heaters in utility closets to save some floor space. However, please follow expert guidance before making concrete decisions.
Conclusion
Condensing tankless water heaters are an excellent step up from traditional heaters. These devices use condensing to turn the exhaust gas into water vapor to speed heating. They also help you save space, energy, and time for relaxing baths.
Remember to weigh all factors against each other before selecting a product. Your budget, spacial area, and technical requirements are all crucial factors. Follow the guidelines in this article to choose the best water heater.
So we hope we have given you the answer to what is a condensing tankless water heater and so much more!
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
