Understanding the Tankless Technology

Before we explore why tankless water heaters might be the right choice for your household, it’s important to understand how they work. Unlike traditional storage water heaters, which keep a specific volume of water hot at all times, tankless systems heat water only when hot water is needed.

By doing away with the energy losses associated with keeping a large volume of water heated 24/7, tankless water heaters deliver an energy-efficient method of water heating. The technology ensures you have a continuous supply of hot water without the standby heat loss, leaving you with a product that not only saves space but also helps save the planet. Impressive, right? Well, read on, because the benefits don’t end there.

The Energy-Saving Champion

At the heart of the tankless water heater’s allure is its exceptional energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, on-demand water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters.

This level of efficiency stems from the fact that tankless systems are not subject to standby heat loss. Standby loss is the energy wasted to maintain the temperature of water contained in the storage tank, which the DOE estimates can be 18% of a home’s energy bill. With tankless systems, you only heat the water you use, significantly reducing this loss and your utility bills in the process.

Endless Hot Water Supply

Another outstanding feature of tankless water heaters is the endless supply of hot water they provide. No more running out of hot water right in the middle of your shower. The design of tankless systems means that, in theory, you could heat water indefinitely – a benefit that’s particularly appreciated in larger households. However, it’s essential to select a system that matches the peak demand of your home to avoid any disappointments.

This ‘endless supply’ can vary depending on the size of your household and the temperature of the groundwater, as colder regions might require more energy to heat the water. However, the principle remains the same, and most users find they never run out of hot water, even with simultaneous hot water demands across different fixtures and appliances.

If your tankless water heater is designed with a recirculation pump, you can also enjoy hot water at every faucet in your home almost immediately. Bradford White’s tankless water heaters can be ordered with or without a recirculation pump. Note: a recirculation pump will likely require additional plumbing to create a hot water loop in your home. Your plumbing professional can help you determine if a recirculation pump makes sense for your needs. Don’t have a plumber? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Space-Saving Marvel

The compact design of tankless water heaters is often an overlooked benefit. Tankless systems can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space.

This is particularly advantageous in smaller homes, apartments, and condos, where space comes at a premium. The reduced size also makes installation more flexible, allowing tankless water heaters to fit into tight or unconventional spaces, providing convenience and a sleek, modern look to your home.

Bradford White’s tankless water heaters are all wall-mounted, which can save you significant space in your basement, garage, or closet. If you find yourself often waiting for hot water at a specific faucet far away from your current water heater, a Bradford White Kwickshot^® Tankless Electric Water Heater can be installed under the sink for fast, endless hot water at that faucet.

Lower Maintenance and Longer Lifespan

With fewer components, tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than their traditional counterparts. Homeowners often find that tankless systems last longer, too. Tank-based water heaters have an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years, whereas tankless units can last 20 years or more with proper care.

This longevity isn’t just great for your peace of mind, it’s also an economic benefit, as you won’t need to replace your water heater as often. Factor in the potential rebates for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance, and a tankless water heater can be a prudent investment that pays for itself over time.

Potential for Rebates and Incentives

The installation of a tankless water heater might qualify you for local, state, or federal rebates or tax incentives aimed at promoting energy efficiency. Many governments and utility companies offer financial incentives to help offset the higher initial cost of tankless systems. This makes them more accessible and attractive to a wider range of consumers, providing immediate and long-term savings on energy bills. You can search here for available rebates and tax credits in your area.

Financial Savvy

Compared to traditional water heaters, the upfront cost of a tankless system can be higher. However, when you consider the savings on your energy bills, the potential for rebates, and the longer lifespan of the unit, the financial benefits quickly become evident. The tankless water heater can effectively pay for itself over time, and you can enjoy the benefits of endless hot water while it does!

A tankless water heater is ultimately a smart financial decision. With its high energy efficiency, prolonged durability, and potential for significant savings, it’s an investment that can improve your home’s value and provide a solid return on investment.

Assessing Your Hot Water Needs

Before making the leap to a tankless water heater, it’s crucial to assess your household’s hot water needs. The size of your family, the number of bathrooms in your home, and your typical hot water usage patterns should all be considered. It’s recommended to consult with a professional to ensure that the unit you choose can meet your peak demand requirements. Don’t have a plumber? You can search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Understanding the Tankless Technology

Before we explore why tankless water heaters might be the right choice for your household, it’s important to understand how they work. Unlike traditional storage water heaters, which keep a specific volume of water hot at all times, tankless systems heat water only when hot water is needed.

By doing away with the energy losses associated with keeping a large volume of water heated 24/7, tankless water heaters deliver an energy-efficient method of water heating. The technology ensures you have a continuous supply of hot water without the standby heat loss, leaving you with a product that not only saves space but also helps save the planet. Impressive, right? Well, read on, because the benefits don’t end there.

The Energy-Saving Champion

At the heart of the tankless water heater’s allure is its exceptional energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, on-demand water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters.

This level of efficiency stems from the fact that tankless systems are not subject to standby heat loss. Standby loss is the energy wasted to maintain the temperature of water contained in the storage tank, which the DOE estimates can be 18% of a home’s energy bill. With tankless systems, you only heat the water you use, significantly reducing this loss and your utility bills in the process.

Endless Hot Water Supply

Another outstanding feature of tankless water heaters is the endless supply of hot water they provide. No more running out of hot water right in the middle of your shower. The design of tankless systems means that, in theory, you could heat water indefinitely – a benefit that’s particularly appreciated in larger households. However, it’s essential to select a system that matches the peak demand of your home to avoid any disappointments.

This ‘endless supply’ can vary depending on the size of your household and the temperature of the groundwater, as colder regions might require more energy to heat the water. However, the principle remains the same, and most users find they never run out of hot water, even with simultaneous hot water demands across different fixtures and appliances.

If your tankless water heater is designed with a recirculation pump, you can also enjoy hot water at every faucet in your home almost immediately. Bradford White’s tankless water heaters can be ordered with or without a recirculation pump. Note: a recirculation pump will likely require additional plumbing to create a hot water loop in your home. Your plumbing professional can help you determine if a recirculation pump makes sense for your needs. Don’t have a plumber? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Space-Saving Marvel

The compact design of tankless water heaters is often an overlooked benefit. Tankless systems can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space.

This is particularly advantageous in smaller homes, apartments, and condos, where space comes at a premium. The reduced size also makes installation more flexible, allowing tankless water heaters to fit into tight or unconventional spaces, providing convenience and a sleek, modern look to your home.

Bradford White’s tankless water heaters are all wall-mounted, which can save you significant space in your basement, garage, or closet. If you find yourself often waiting for hot water at a specific faucet far away from your current water heater, a Bradford White Kwickshot^® Tankless Electric Water Heater can be installed under the sink for fast, endless hot water at that faucet.

Lower Maintenance and Longer Lifespan

With fewer components, tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than their traditional counterparts. Homeowners often find that tankless systems last longer, too. Tank-based water heaters have an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years, whereas tankless units can last 20 years or more with proper care.

This longevity isn’t just great for your peace of mind, it’s also an economic benefit, as you won’t need to replace your water heater as often. Factor in the potential rebates for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance, and a tankless water heater can be a prudent investment that pays for itself over time.

Potential for Rebates and Incentives

The installation of a tankless water heater might qualify you for local, state, or federal rebates or tax incentives aimed at promoting energy efficiency. Many governments and utility companies offer financial incentives to help offset the higher initial cost of tankless systems. This makes them more accessible and attractive to a wider range of consumers, providing immediate and long-term savings on energy bills. You can search here for available rebates and tax credits in your area.

Financial Savvy

Compared to traditional water heaters, the upfront cost of a tankless system can be higher. However, when you consider the savings on your energy bills, the potential for rebates, and the longer lifespan of the unit, the financial benefits quickly become evident. The tankless water heater can effectively pay for itself over time, and you can enjoy the benefits of endless hot water while it does!

A tankless water heater is ultimately a smart financial decision. With its high energy efficiency, prolonged durability, and potential for significant savings, it’s an investment that can improve your home’s value and provide a solid return on investment.

Assessing Your Hot Water Needs

Before making the leap to a tankless water heater, it’s crucial to assess your household’s hot water needs. The size of your family, the number of bathrooms in your home, and your typical hot water usage patterns should all be considered. It’s recommended to consult with a professional to ensure that the unit you choose can meet your peak demand requirements. Don’t have a plumber? You can search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Understanding Tankless Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates

Federal Tax Credits

The federal government has, for several years, incentivized the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades through tax credits. When it comes to tankless water heaters, homeowners can benefit from the Federal Water Heaters Tax Credit, which offers a credit when these systems are installed in existing homes.

To qualify for this credit, the tankless water heater must meet specific energy efficiency requirements, and installation should be complete by December 31, 2032. The credit amount is substantial, 30% of the project cost, including installation, with a maximum of $600.

State-Level Incentives

Beyond federal offerings, many states have their own tankless water heater tax credit programs, some of which are more favorable than the federal credit. These can vary greatly in terms of eligibility, credit amount, and the types of upgrades or systems that qualify. Therefore, it’s crucial for homeowners to explore what their state offers by checking with the State Energy Office or a local Department of Revenue.

Utility Rebates

In addition to government tankless water heater tax credits, utility companies – in a bid to reduce peak power demand and promote energy efficiency – offer rebates for the installation of high-efficiency tankless water heaters. These tankless water heater rebates can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars and are usually applicable at the time of purchase or installation and provide instant savings.

How Tankless Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates Can Benefit You

While both tank and tankless water heaters have their place, tankless water heaters offer some advantages over traditional tank water heaters. They save space, provide endless hot water, and can save you significant amounts of money on your monthly utility bills. Tankless water heaters may have a longer lifespan than tank water heaters however, the up-front cost of a tankless water heater is typically higher.

Tankless water heater tax credits and rebates can help lower this up-front cost, so the tankless water heater will effectively pay for itself in energy savings faster than would otherwise be possible.

Eligibility Criteria

Understanding Energy Efficiency Standards

For any tax credit or rebate, the installed tankless water heater must meet certain energy efficiency standards. This typically translates to an Energy Factor (EF) rating above a specified number, ensuring that the system offers a notable improvement in energy use over standard models.

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation is key to qualifying for these incentives. For some tax credits and rebates, using a professional installer certified by the manufacturer may be required. Keeping documentation of the purchase, including the model number, energy efficiency rating, and the installer’s certification, is essential. Find a Bradford White plumbing professional in your area here.

How to Claim Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates

Steps for Federal Tax Credits

To claim the Non-Business Energy Property Credit, homeowners must:

• Maintain a record of the purchase and installation of the tankless water heater.
• Complete IRS Form 5695 and attach it to their regular Form 1040 when filing taxes.
• Ensure that the system meets the necessary efficiency standards and was installed in their primary residence.

Applying for Utility Rebates

The process for applying for utility rebates is usually easy, but it varies by provider. It generally involves filling out an online application or mailing in a form along with proof of purchase and installation. Check with your specific utility company for detailed instructions.

Additional Considerations

Homeowners should be aware of the expiration dates for rebates and tax credits, as well as any changes in state or local laws that might affect their eligibility.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Long-Term Cost Savings

A tankless water heater can deliver savings on monthly energy bills, ranging from 8% to 34% according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When coupled with tax credits and rebates, the cost savings become even more significant, potentially leading to a quick return on investment. Tankless water heaters can effectively pay for themselves over time when you factor in tax credits and energy savings.

Environmental Impact

Reduced energy consumption translates to a lower carbon footprint and a more sustainable home. Tankless water heaters are especially beneficial as they only heat water when it’s needed, so you’re not using energy to heat water that you’re not currently using.

Understanding Tankless Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates

Federal Tax Credits

The federal government has, for several years, incentivized the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades through tax credits. When it comes to tankless water heaters, homeowners can benefit from the Federal Water Heaters Tax Credit, which offers a credit when these systems are installed in existing homes.

To qualify for this credit, the tankless water heater must meet specific energy efficiency requirements, and installation should be complete by December 31, 2032. The credit amount is substantial, 30% of the project cost, including installation, with a maximum of $600.

State-Level Incentives

Beyond federal offerings, many states have their own tankless water heater tax credit programs, some of which are more favorable than the federal credit. These can vary greatly in terms of eligibility, credit amount, and the types of upgrades or systems that qualify. Therefore, it’s crucial for homeowners to explore what their state offers by checking with the State Energy Office or a local Department of Revenue.

Utility Rebates

In addition to government tankless water heater tax credits, utility companies – in a bid to reduce peak power demand and promote energy efficiency – offer rebates for the installation of high-efficiency tankless water heaters. These tankless water heater rebates can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars and are usually applicable at the time of purchase or installation and provide instant savings.

How Tankless Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates Can Benefit You

While both tank and tankless water heaters have their place, tankless water heaters offer some advantages over traditional tank water heaters. They save space, provide endless hot water, and can save you significant amounts of money on your monthly utility bills. Tankless water heaters may have a longer lifespan than tank water heaters however, the up-front cost of a tankless water heater is typically higher.

Tankless water heater tax credits and rebates can help lower this up-front cost, so the tankless water heater will effectively pay for itself in energy savings faster than would otherwise be possible.

Eligibility Criteria

Understanding Energy Efficiency Standards

For any tax credit or rebate, the installed tankless water heater must meet certain energy efficiency standards. This typically translates to an Energy Factor (EF) rating above a specified number, ensuring that the system offers a notable improvement in energy use over standard models.

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation is key to qualifying for these incentives. For some tax credits and rebates, using a professional installer certified by the manufacturer may be required. Keeping documentation of the purchase, including the model number, energy efficiency rating, and the installer’s certification, is essential. Find a Bradford White plumbing professional in your area here.

How to Claim Water Heater Tax Credits and Rebates

Steps for Federal Tax Credits

To claim the Non-Business Energy Property Credit, homeowners must:

• Maintain a record of the purchase and installation of the tankless water heater.
• Complete IRS Form 5695 and attach it to their regular Form 1040 when filing taxes.
• Ensure that the system meets the necessary efficiency standards and was installed in their primary residence.

Applying for Utility Rebates

The process for applying for utility rebates is usually easy, but it varies by provider. It generally involves filling out an online application or mailing in a form along with proof of purchase and installation. Check with your specific utility company for detailed instructions.

Additional Considerations

Homeowners should be aware of the expiration dates for rebates and tax credits, as well as any changes in state or local laws that might affect their eligibility.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Long-Term Cost Savings

A tankless water heater can deliver savings on monthly energy bills, ranging from 8% to 34% according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When coupled with tax credits and rebates, the cost savings become even more significant, potentially leading to a quick return on investment. Tankless water heaters can effectively pay for themselves over time when you factor in tax credits and energy savings.

Environmental Impact

Reduced energy consumption translates to a lower carbon footprint and a more sustainable home. Tankless water heaters are especially beneficial as they only heat water when it’s needed, so you’re not using energy to heat water that you’re not currently using.

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.)