Introduction to Heat Pump Water Heaters

A heat pump water heater employs essentially the same technology that keeps your refrigerator cool, but in reverse. Instead of expelling the warm air to keep the insides cool, it draws warmth from the surrounding air to heat water, storing it in a tank for domestic use. This ingenious repurposing of heat makes heat pump water heaters one of the most efficient methods to heat water today.

How Heat Pump Water Heaters Work

Unlike traditional water heaters that generate heat directly to warm water, heat pump water heaters move heat from one place to another using electricity. They work much like an air conditioner, but in reverse. The system consists of a fan that pulls in ambient air, an evaporator coil that absorbs heat into refrigerant, a compressor that amplifies the heat, and a heat exchanger that transfers this heat into the water tank.

By pulling the heat from the air into the water, less energy is required to get the water up to the desired temperature. This energy savings means lower energy costs for you!

Benefits of Heat Pump Water Heaters

The efficiency of heat pump water heaters can translate into significant savings on your electricity bill. They use up to 60% less electricity than standard electric water heaters, making them an attractive option for energy-conscious consumers. Furthermore, because they move heat rather than generate it, they have a lesser environmental impact, and advanced models can provide consistent hot water on demand.

Types of Heat Pump Water Heaters: Electric, Hybrid

There are primarily two types of heat pump water heaters available on the market:

• Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters: These are entirely reliant on electricity to move heat from the air to the water.
• Hybrid Water Heaters: These combine the technology of heat pumps with traditional electric resistance heat methods to ensure efficiency even in colder climates or during times of high demand.

Learn more about the heat pump water heaters offered by Bradford White here.

Comparing Heat Pump Water Heaters with Traditional Water Heaters

When compared to their traditional counterparts, heat pump water heaters stand out in their efficiency and operational cost. While the initial purchase and installation cost may be higher, the operating cost of heat pump water heaters is significantly lower, offering long-term savings and a shorter payback period.

Cost and Energy Savings Analysis

The initial investment in a heat pump water heater might seem high, but a detailed cost and energy savings analysis reveals that the savings accrued over time can substantially offset the initial expense. The heat pump water heater essentially pays for itself in energy savings over time. Federal and state incentives can further reduce the upfront cost, making them an even more economical choice in the long run. You can search here for available rebates and tax credits in your area.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and maintenance are key to maximizing the efficiency of your heat pump water heater. It’s important to install your heat pump water heater in a space that consistently remains in the 40°F-90°F range and has the recommended 1,000 cubic feet of air surrounding it to function efficiently. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the air filter and checking the system settings, can also prolong the life of your heater. Your plumbing professional can advise you on the installation and maintenance of your heat pump water heater. Need a plumber to help you? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Environmental Impact of Heat Pump Water Heaters

The reduced operational energy requirements of heat pump water heaters translate into a lower carbon footprint, making them a friendlier choice for the environment. By leveraging the ambient air temperature and minimizing direct electrical heating, heat pump water heaters contribute to a reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Future Trends in Water Heating Technology

Innovation in water heating technology continues to accelerate, with heat pump water heaters at the forefront. New advances in connectivity, like the Bradford White Connect App, allow homeowners to control and optimize their water heater remotely for greater control and efficiency.

Types of Heat Pump Water Heaters: Electric, Hybrid

There are primarily two types of heat pump water heaters available on the market:

• Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters: These are entirely reliant on electricity to move heat from the air to the water.
• Hybrid Water Heaters: These combine the technology of heat pumps with traditional electric resistance heat methods to ensure efficiency even in colder climates or during times of high demand.

Learn more about the heat pump water heaters offered by Bradford White here.

Comparing Heat Pump Water Heaters with Traditional Water Heaters

When compared to their traditional counterparts, heat pump water heaters stand out in their efficiency and operational cost. While the initial purchase and installation cost may be higher, the operating cost of heat pump water heaters is significantly lower, offering long-term savings and a shorter payback period.

Cost and Energy Savings Analysis

The initial investment in a heat pump water heater might seem high, but a detailed cost and energy savings analysis reveals that the savings accrued over time can substantially offset the initial expense. The heat pump water heater essentially pays for itself in energy savings over time. Federal and state incentives can further reduce the upfront cost, making them an even more economical choice in the long run. You can search here for available rebates and tax credits in your area.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and maintenance are key to maximizing the efficiency of your heat pump water heater. It’s important to install your heat pump water heater in a space that consistently remains in the 40°F-90°F range and has the recommended 1,000 cubic feet of air surrounding it to function efficiently. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the air filter and checking the system settings, can also prolong the life of your heater. Your plumbing professional can advise you on the installation and maintenance of your heat pump water heater. Need a plumber to help you? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Environmental Impact of Heat Pump Water Heaters

The reduced operational energy requirements of heat pump water heaters translate into a lower carbon footprint, making them a friendlier choice for the environment. By leveraging the ambient air temperature and minimizing direct electrical heating, heat pump water heaters contribute to a reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions.

1. The Basics on Different Water Heater Types

Water heaters are not a one-size-fits-all appliance. There are three primary types you can choose from: electric water heaters, gas water heaters, and tankless water heaters. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Electric water heaters use electricity to heat the water, which is cost-effective if you have low electricity rates. They can also be more efficient than gas heaters, as they don’t waste energy through venting. However, they usually have a higher upfront cost and can be slower to heat water compared to their gas counterparts. Learn more about electric water heaters here.

One type of electric water heater is a heat pump water heater. They use advanced heat pump technology to heat water more efficiently by pulling heat from the air. While they have a higher up-front cost, the efficiency of heat pump water heaters saves you money every month, so they effectively pay for themselves over time. Learn more about heat pump water heaters here.

Gas water heaters, on the other hand, use natural gas or propane to heat water. They are generally cheaper to operate thanks to lower gas prices. Gas water heaters heat water faster, so they are a great choice for a larger family with greater hot water needs. Gas water heaters require venting, a gas line, and can be less energy efficient. Learn more about gas water heaters here.

Tankless water heaters heat water as you need it, without the need for a large storage tank. This makes them incredibly energy-efficient and a great space saver. They provide unlimited hot water for as long as you need, making them a great choice for a family with higher hot water needs. Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install but can save you money in the long run due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan. Learn more about tankless water heaters here.

2. Understanding the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF)

Your water heater is the second largest user of energy in your home – right behind home heating and air conditioning. The more efficient your water heater, the more money you’ll save on your utility bills. It’s important to consider your water heater’s Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). This metric tells you how well the water heater converts its energy input to heat and is a crucial factor in estimating efficiency and operational costs.

Gas water heaters typically have a higher UEF rating than electric models. However, tankless water heaters, especially those with a condensing design, can have the highest UEF rating of all, making them exceptionally efficient at converting energy into hot water. Learn more about your water heater’s UEF rating here.

3. Sizing Your Water Heater

Choosing the right size water heater is key. If the water heater is too small, you’ll run out of hot water. If it’s too large, you’re wasting money on heating water you don’t need. The right size depends on your household’s peak usage times, the number of people in your home, and how much hot water is used simultaneously (think of multiple showers running at once).

To help you size your water heater, you can consider the first-hour rating (FHR) and the recovery rate. The FHR tells you how many gallons of hot water a heater supplies during a busy hour, while the recovery rate is how quickly a heater can reheat the water after that first batch is depleted. If you use a lot of hot water at one time (such as doing laundry, washing dishes, and taking showers all at the same time), you’ll need a water heater with a higher FHR. The recovery rate is important if you’re using a lot of hot water over an extended period of time. So if one person takes a long shower and uses all the hot water in the tank, the recovery rate tells you how long you’ll need to wait before you can take another hot shower.

Your plumbing professional can help you properly size your water heater for your home. Don’t have a plumber? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

4. Looking at your Water Heater’s Long-Term Costs

The initial price is just the beginning when it comes to water heaters. You have to consider long-term operating costs. For instance, an electric water heater may have a higher operating cost than a gas water heater. A heat pump water heater will effectively pay for itself in energy savings over time. Tankless water heaters usually have a longer lifespan and lower operating costs than traditional tank models, but they are initially more expensive to purchase and install.

Remember to also factor in the costs of maintenance and repairs. Proper maintenance can lengthen the life of your water heater, improve efficiency, and lower your overall costs. Ask your plumbing professional about a maintenance schedule to keep your water heater running strong for years to come.

5. Considering Environmental Impact

The choices you make with your water heater impact the environment. Electric water heaters are efficient and have no emissions so they are generally considered to be more environmentally friendly. However, you need to consider how your electricity is generated. If you live in an area where the electricity is primarily generated by coal, this environmental benefit is diminished.

6. Installation and Maintenance Musts

It’s essential that you have a professional handle the installation of your water heater to ensure safety and efficiency. Plumbing codes, venting requirements, and proper electrical or gas connections are just a few factors that need to be diligently addressed.

Routine maintenance, like flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod, is also important. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased efficiency, higher operating costs, and a much shorter lifespan for your water heater.

If you need a plumbing professional, you can search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

7. Learning the Lifespan of Your Water Heater

The lifespan of water heaters vary by type and model. Generally, both gas and electric water heaters last around 10-15 years. Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with lower maintenance requirements.

The quality of water in your area can also impact lifespan due to mineral build-up inside the tank. Flushing your water heater can help prolong its life, as can installing a water softener if you have hard water. Some manufacturers take extra steps to help prevent sediment buildup. For example, Bradford White’s Hydrojet^® Total Performance System helps reduce sediment to maximize the life and performance of your water heater.

8. Understanding Which is Safer for Your Home

Safety should always be a top priority, especially with an appliance that deals with heat and potentially combustible sources like gas. Both electric and gas water heaters have safety features to prevent overheating and leaks.

Gas water heaters usually come with a flammable vapor ignition resistance (FVIR) system to reduce the possibility of accidental fires. For example, Bradford White’s Defender Safety System uses Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant technology with ScreenLok^® to prevent possible ignited vapors from traveling outside of your water heater.

9. Exploring Innovative Features and Technology

Water heater technology is evolving, with manufacturers adding innovative features to improve efficiency and user experience. For example, Bradford White Water Heaters now feature Vitraglas^® Tank Lining with Microban^®, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew on the surface of the tank lining. Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and control, leak detection systems, smart scheduling, and vacation modes to conserve energy. Learn more about the Bradford White Connect^™ App here. Others include heat pump technology, which is more efficient than traditional electric heating elements. Check out the advanced AeroTherm^® Series Heat Pump Water Heater from Bradford White.

1. The Basics on Different Water Heater Types

Water heaters are not a one-size-fits-all appliance. There are three primary types you can choose from: electric water heaters, gas water heaters, and tankless water heaters. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Electric water heaters use electricity to heat the water, which is cost-effective if you have low electricity rates. They can also be more efficient than gas heaters, as they don’t waste energy through venting. However, they usually have a higher upfront cost and can be slower to heat water compared to their gas counterparts. Learn more about electric water heaters here.

One type of electric water heater is a heat pump water heater. They use advanced heat pump technology to heat water more efficiently by pulling heat from the air. While they have a higher up-front cost, the efficiency of heat pump water heaters saves you money every month, so they effectively pay for themselves over time. Learn more about heat pump water heaters here.

Gas water heaters, on the other hand, use natural gas or propane to heat water. They are generally cheaper to operate thanks to lower gas prices. Gas water heaters heat water faster, so they are a great choice for a larger family with greater hot water needs. Gas water heaters require venting, a gas line, and can be less energy efficient. Learn more about gas water heaters here.

Tankless water heaters heat water as you need it, without the need for a large storage tank. This makes them incredibly energy-efficient and a great space saver. They provide unlimited hot water for as long as you need, making them a great choice for a family with higher hot water needs. Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install but can save you money in the long run due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan. Learn more about tankless water heaters here.

2. Understanding the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF)

Your water heater is the second largest user of energy in your home – right behind home heating and air conditioning. The more efficient your water heater, the more money you’ll save on your utility bills. It’s important to consider your water heater’s Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). This metric tells you how well the water heater converts its energy input to heat and is a crucial factor in estimating efficiency and operational costs.

Gas water heaters typically have a higher UEF rating than electric models. However, tankless water heaters, especially those with a condensing design, can have the highest UEF rating of all, making them exceptionally efficient at converting energy into hot water. Learn more about your water heater’s UEF rating here.

3. Sizing Your Water Heater

Choosing the right size water heater is key. If the water heater is too small, you’ll run out of hot water. If it’s too large, you’re wasting money on heating water you don’t need. The right size depends on your household’s peak usage times, the number of people in your home, and how much hot water is used simultaneously (think of multiple showers running at once).

To help you size your water heater, you can consider the first-hour rating (FHR) and the recovery rate. The FHR tells you how many gallons of hot water a heater supplies during a busy hour, while the recovery rate is how quickly a heater can reheat the water after that first batch is depleted. If you use a lot of hot water at one time (such as doing laundry, washing dishes, and taking showers all at the same time), you’ll need a water heater with a higher FHR. The recovery rate is important if you’re using a lot of hot water over an extended period of time. So if one person takes a long shower and uses all the hot water in the tank, the recovery rate tells you how long you’ll need to wait before you can take another hot shower.

Your plumbing professional can help you properly size your water heater for your home. Don’t have a plumber? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

4. Looking at your Water Heater’s Long-Term Costs

The initial price is just the beginning when it comes to water heaters. You have to consider long-term operating costs. For instance, an electric water heater may have a higher operating cost than a gas water heater. A heat pump water heater will effectively pay for itself in energy savings over time. Tankless water heaters usually have a longer lifespan and lower operating costs than traditional tank models, but they are initially more expensive to purchase and install.

Remember to also factor in the costs of maintenance and repairs. Proper maintenance can lengthen the life of your water heater, improve efficiency, and lower your overall costs. Ask your plumbing professional about a maintenance schedule to keep your water heater running strong for years to come.

5. Considering Environmental Impact

The choices you make with your water heater impact the environment. Electric water heaters are efficient and have no emissions so they are generally considered to be more environmentally friendly. However, you need to consider how your electricity is generated. If you live in an area where the electricity is primarily generated by coal, this environmental benefit is diminished.

6. Installation and Maintenance Musts

It’s essential that you have a professional handle the installation of your water heater to ensure safety and efficiency. Plumbing codes, venting requirements, and proper electrical or gas connections are just a few factors that need to be diligently addressed.

Routine maintenance, like flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod, is also important. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased efficiency, higher operating costs, and a much shorter lifespan for your water heater.

If you need a plumbing professional, you can search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

7. Learning the Lifespan of Your Water Heater

The lifespan of water heaters vary by type and model. Generally, both gas and electric water heaters last around 10-15 years. Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with lower maintenance requirements.

The quality of water in your area can also impact lifespan due to mineral build-up inside the tank. Flushing your water heater can help prolong its life, as can installing a water softener if you have hard water. Some manufacturers take extra steps to help prevent sediment buildup. For example, Bradford White’s Hydrojet^® Total Performance System helps reduce sediment to maximize the life and performance of your water heater.

8. Understanding Which is Safer for Your Home

Safety should always be a top priority, especially with an appliance that deals with heat and potentially combustible sources like gas. Both electric and gas water heaters have safety features to prevent overheating and leaks.

Gas water heaters usually come with a flammable vapor ignition resistance (FVIR) system to reduce the possibility of accidental fires. For example, Bradford White’s Defender Safety System uses Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant technology with ScreenLok^® to prevent possible ignited vapors from traveling outside of your water heater.

9. Exploring Innovative Features and Technology

Water heater technology is evolving, with manufacturers adding innovative features to improve efficiency and user experience. For example, Bradford White Water Heaters now feature Vitraglas^® Tank Lining with Microban^®, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew on the surface of the tank lining. Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and control, leak detection systems, smart scheduling, and vacation modes to conserve energy. Others include heat pump technology, which is more efficient than traditional electric heating elements. Check out the advanced AeroTherm^® Series Heat Pump Water Heater from Bradford White.

The Ingenious Design of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless models – as the name suggests – do not store gallons of heated water until it is needed. Instead, they heat water on demand, passing it through a heat exchanger that’s activated by the hot water tap. So when you start using hot water, the tankless water heater turns on and provides you with an endless supply. Even better, you aren’t paying to constantly maintain a large quantity of hot water in a tank. The overall efficiency and life expectancy of tankless water heaters are compelling reasons to make the switch to tankless.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Gas tankless water heaters are high-powered units that can meet the demand for hot water even in larger households. They typically use natural gas or propane and employ a set of powerful burners to heat the water rapidly. Gas tankless water heaters require more ventilation and should only be installed by professionals due to their technical complexity. However, their efficiency and output make them an excellent choice for homes that need a robust hot water system.

Propane Tankless Water Heaters

If your home isn’t connected to natural gas, a propane tankless water heater (or a gas tankless water heater with a propane conversion kit) offers the same benefits as a gas model while giving you the flexibility of using a more readily available fuel source. They’re perfect for households that don’t have access to natural gas lines but do have the capability to store propane safely. Like gas tankless water heaters, proper venting is required so professional installation is essential. When considering a propane tankless water heater, it’s crucial to factor in the cost of the propane and the need for a tank to supply it.

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Among the quietest and most compact, electric tankless water heaters are also the most straightforward to install. They don’t require ventilation or a gas line, making them suitable for smaller homes or as a point-of-use solution for specific hot water needs, like under-sink installations or auxiliary bathrooms. For example, if you have a bedroom that’s far away from your water heater, an under-the-sink electric tankless water heater would give you fast hot water at that location. While electric tankless heaters may not be as powerful as their gas counterparts, they still offer an advantage in energy efficiency over traditional water heaters because they only operate when hot water is needed.

Benefits of Switching to Tankless Water Heaters

Energy and Cost Savings

The energy savings of tankless water heaters are significant. With no need to keep water constantly hot and no heat loss from the tank, tankless water heaters can reduce energy consumption for water heating by 10% to 20%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. For the average household, this could mean a savings of hundreds of dollars annually on utility bills by switching to a tankless water heater.

Endless Hot Water

Tankless water heaters provide a constant, endless supply of hot water. You can take a shower, run the dishwasher, and do laundry all at once without anyone losing their hot water. Even if you’re the last person in your household to take a shower, it will remain perfectly hot for as long as you want!

Longer Lifespan and Reduced Environmental Impact

Tankless water heaters boast a life expectancy of over 20 years, almost double the lifespan of traditional heaters. When coupled with reduced energy demand, this longevity means a significant reduction in the environmental footprint of your water heater. The longer life also factors into your overall cost, since you’ll enjoy savings of not needing to replace your water heater as often.

Some manufacturers take extra steps to promote longer water heater life. For example, Bradford White offers a stainless steel heat exchanger on its Infiniti^® GS and GR Series Tankless Water Heaters which is engineered for years of outstanding performance.

Considerations Before Switching

Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Savings

The upfront cost of a tankless water heater, including installation, can be higher than traditional tank water heaters. However, when you factor in the extended lifespan and annual savings on your energy bills, the up-front investment is often worthwhile in both financial and environmental terms. Over time, the tankless water heater can essentially pay for itself in energy savings and longer life.

Sizing and Installation

Ensuring your tankless water heater is appropriately sized for your home is critical. An undersized unit can lead to temperature fluctuations and an inability to meet all your hot water needs, while an oversized unit will be a waste of energy and money. Professional installers will survey your home’s water usage patterns and recommend the correct size and location for your new tankless water heater.

Maintenance

While tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than traditional models, they are not maintenance-free. It’s essential to flush the system regularly to prevent mineral buildup and maintain optimal performance. Whether you choose a gas, propane, or electric tankless water heater, following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines is vital.

Making the Transition

If you’re convinced that a tankless water heater is the right choice for you, the next step is to research brands and models to find one that fits both your needs and your budget. You can learn more about Bradford White’s Infiniti^® Series Tankless Water Heaters here. Your plumbing professional can help you find the best tankless water heater and provide you with personalized advice based on your home’s unique circumstances. (We can help you find a Bradford White plumbing professional in your area if you don’t currently have one.)

The Ingenious Design of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless models – as the name suggests – do not store gallons of heated water until it is needed. Instead, they heat water on demand, passing it through a heat exchanger that’s activated by the hot water tap. So when you start using hot water, the tankless water heater turns on and provides you with an endless supply. Even better, you aren’t paying to constantly maintain a large quantity of hot water in a tank. The overall efficiency and life expectancy of tankless water heaters are compelling reasons to make the switch to tankless.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Gas tankless water heaters are high-powered units that can meet the demand for hot water even in larger households. They typically use natural gas or propane and employ a set of powerful burners to heat the water rapidly. Gas tankless water heaters require more ventilation and should only be installed by professionals due to their technical complexity. However, their efficiency and output make them an excellent choice for homes that need a robust hot water system.

Propane Tankless Water Heaters

If your home isn’t connected to natural gas, a propane tankless water heater (or a gas tankless water heater with a propane conversion kit) offers the same benefits as a gas model while giving you the flexibility of using a more readily available fuel source. They’re perfect for households that don’t have access to natural gas lines but do have the capability to store propane safely. Like gas tankless water heaters, proper venting is required so professional installation is essential. When considering a propane tankless water heater, it’s crucial to factor in the cost of the propane and the need for a tank to supply it.

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Among the quietest and most compact, electric tankless water heaters are also the most straightforward to install. They don’t require ventilation or a gas line, making them suitable for smaller homes or as a point-of-use solution for specific hot water needs, like under-sink installations or auxiliary bathrooms. For example, if you have a bedroom that’s far away from your water heater, an under-the-sink electric tankless water heater would give you fast hot water at that location. While electric tankless heaters may not be as powerful as their gas counterparts, they still offer an advantage in energy efficiency over traditional water heaters because they only operate when hot water is needed.

Benefits of Switching to Tankless Water Heaters

Energy and Cost Savings

The energy savings of tankless water heaters are significant. With no need to keep water constantly hot and no heat loss from the tank, tankless water heaters can reduce energy consumption for water heating by 10% to 20%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. For the average household, this could mean a savings of hundreds of dollars annually on utility bills by switching to a tankless water heater.

Endless Hot Water

Tankless water heaters provide a constant, endless supply of hot water. You can take a shower, run the dishwasher, and do laundry all at once without anyone losing their hot water. Even if you’re the last person in your household to take a shower, it will remain perfectly hot for as long as you want!

Longer Lifespan and Reduced Environmental Impact

Tankless water heaters boast a life expectancy of over 20 years, almost double the lifespan of traditional heaters. When coupled with reduced energy demand, this longevity means a significant reduction in the environmental footprint of your water heater. The longer life also factors into your overall cost, since you’ll enjoy savings of not needing to replace your water heater as often.

Some manufacturers take extra steps to promote longer water heater life. For example, Bradford White offers a stainless steel heat exchanger on its Infiniti^® GS and GR Series Tankless Water Heaters which is engineered for years of outstanding performance.

Considerations Before Switching

Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Savings

The upfront cost of a tankless water heater, including installation, can be higher than traditional tank water heaters. However, when you factor in the extended lifespan and annual savings on your energy bills, the up-front investment is often worthwhile in both financial and environmental terms. Over time, the tankless water heater can essentially pay for itself in energy savings and longer life.

Sizing and Installation

Ensuring your tankless water heater is appropriately sized for your home is critical. An undersized unit can lead to temperature fluctuations and an inability to meet all your hot water needs, while an oversized unit will be a waste of energy and money. Professional installers will survey your home’s water usage patterns and recommend the correct size and location for your new tankless water heater.

Maintenance

While tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than traditional models, they are not maintenance-free. It’s essential to flush the system regularly to prevent mineral buildup and maintain optimal performance. Whether you choose a gas, propane, or electric tankless water heater, following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines is vital.

Making the Transition

If you’re convinced that a tankless water heater is the right choice for you, the next step is to research brands and models to find one that fits both your needs and your budget. You can learn more about Bradford White’s Infiniti^® Series Tankless Water Heaters here. Your plumbing professional can help you find the best tankless water heater and provide you with personalized advice based on your home’s unique circumstances. (We can help you find a Bradford White plumbing professional in your area if you don’t currently have one.)