According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the savings really can add up. They report that replacing standard electric storage tank water heaters with tankless ones can save consumers up to 34 percent of their bill. They also report that tankless water heaters can be 24-34 percent more energy efficient for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily.
As energy costs soar across the country, people are scrambling to find ways to reduce their energy bills. One way that people can save a lot of money each month is one that is often overlooked. Tankless water heaters, also referred to as demand or instantaneous water heaters, are well worth considering when looking for ways to reduce energy costs.
“Many people aren’t aware of just how much energy their water heater uses,� says Ken Berke, chief executive officer of DesignerPlumbing.com, a Global Supply Network affiliate that specializes in tankless water heaters, decorative plumbing, and a bevy of related products for affordable home improvement. “That is, until they really start to research and learn how much tankless water heaters can save them each year.�
“Along with saving people money, many of the brands we sell are cream of the crop brands that at one time were only available to the trade. We offer brands like Bosch, Takagi, Paloma, Stiebel-Eltron, EemaX, and Powerstar,� says Berke.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the savings really can add up. They report that replacing standard electric storage tank water heaters with tankless ones can save consumers up to 34 percent of their bill. They also report that tankless water heaters can be 24-34 percent more energy efficient for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. Additionally, the DOE advises that you can see an energy savings of 27-50 percent if you install a tankless water heater at each hot water outlet.
“People are always shocked when they find out their energy savings could be up to 50 percent,� says Berke. “The feedback that we’ve received from customers that have upgraded to tankless water heaters has been great. They all say they wish they had known sooner, so they would have stopped throwing money away a long time ago.�
Water heating bills are the third largest energy expense a home has and usually account for around 16 percent of utility costs. Using tankless water heaters is a smart move for all homeowners. Instead of the standard-type heaters, which cause standby heat losses, they heat the water directly without using a storage tank. The fact that you don’t have to wait for water to heat up is another benefit to consumers. Homes that use this type of system never run out of hot water as long as they stay within the range of the heater purchased. Sizes range from small large to extra large and can be powered by natural gas (NG), liquid propane (LP), or electric.
Higher efficiency models use a computer controlled electronic ignition for on-demand heating applications at maximum efficiency. Some models are available with hydraulically controlled ignitions for areas with great threats of power outages. High altitude applications are now possible through the use of certain models that maximize efficiency even when breathable air is limited. Certain models may be used for hydronic floor and wall heating as well.
“This type of system is not only good for consumers,� adds Berke, “it’s also good on the environment. It’s just a very economical and smart move all the way around for homeowners to replace standard systems with these energy saving units.�
There are a few other perks to using this type of water heater. Tankless systems typically last about 20 years, which is double what a standard system will usually last. Additionally, people who upgrade to them are eligible for a tax credit up to $300, through the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
“A final perk for using tankless heaters is the space gained by throwing the old ugly tank out,� adds Berke. “These mighty tankless wonders can be installed in applications from tiny bedroom closets to outdoor installation for maximizing space. Outdoor models do not require venting, so this adds to the cost savings right at installation.�
Speaking Truth To Empower.� To contact The Black Star News write [email protected] or call (212) 481-7745. Subscribe to this newspaper and advertise to build power.
