What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Picture a water heater; what does it look like? Is it a big metal tank sitting in your garage, basement, or utility closet? That’s the traditional setup most people are used to.

Tankless water heaters are a little different though. You might’ve already guessed based on the name, but they have no tanks at all—so how do they make sure you have hot water when you need it? Don’t worry—we’ll answer that question and many others below!

So, What are Tankless Water Heaters?

A tankless water heater will heat water only when you need it—no storage tank needed! No tank means no bulky equipment taking up space in your garage, basement, or utility closet. Instead, you can mount them right on the wall, freeing up valuable floor space and keeping things looking neat and tidy. Their compact design makes them easy to tuck away in smaller areas, giving you more room for storage or other equipment without sacrificing reliable hot water.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

A traditional tank water heater holds a set amount of water in its tank, which it constantly heats throughout the day, whether you’re using it or not. 

Tankless systems, meanwhile, heat water only when you need it. When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water flows through the unit’s heating elements—either electric coils or a gas burner—where it’s instantly warmed to reach the temperature you’re looking for. This keeps your energy bills low and makes sure ​​you never run out of hot water (talk about a win-win).

Plus, tankless systems take the guesswork out of timing your showers or running appliances—you’ll always have hot water ready to go, no matter how many people are in line for the bathroom or how many dishes have piled up in the sink.

How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?

Switching to a tankless water heater can offer lots of benefits (lower energy bills, endless hot water, we could go on and on), and one of the biggest is its long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, a tankless water heater can last up to 20 years or more—that’s nearly double the lifespan of a traditional tank water heater!

Also, since they don’t store water, there’s a lower risk of corrosion and leaks, which helps them stay in good shape for longer. The fewer issues your system experiences, the more you’ll save on the cost of repairs and premature replacement. And let’s be honest—no one wants to deal with the hassle (or expense) of replacing a water heater sooner than they have to. 

So when you invest in a tankless system, you’ll be able to kick back and relax knowing you’re not just getting reliable hot water—you’re also getting a system that’s built to go the distance.

Looking to install a tankless water heater in the Charlotte area? Give Morris-Jenkins a call to get started!

What to Consider When Buying a Tankless Water Heater

Your Home’s Hot Water Needs

What does a normal day look like in your home? Do your kids all get home from practice at the same time and jump in the shower one after another? Do the dishes and laundry tend to wait until the evening when everyone’s also getting ready for bed?

If multiple people and appliances need hot water at the same time, you’ll need to install a system capable of keeping up with that demand without losing water pressure or temperature. Choosing a unit with the right flow rate makes sure everyone gets hot water when they need it.

Fuel Type

You’ve got two options when you install a tankless water heater: gas or electric. Gas-powered models tend to heat water faster and are great for larger households with higher hot water demands. They’re also a solid choice if your home already has a natural gas line. 

On the other hand, electric tankless water heaters are usually easier and cheaper to install. They’re also usually the more compact and energy-efficient option, great for smaller homes or homes with lower water usage.

Efficiency Ratings 

A tankless water heater’s efficiency ratings are directly related to your energy bills. The more efficient the system is, the less energy it’ll use to create warm water and the fewer dollars it’ll take out of your pocket. Make sure to consider the system’s Uniform Energy Factor (UEF)—the higher the number, the more efficient the system. Choosing a high-efficiency model might cost a bit more upfront, but the long-term savings on your utility bills can make it well worth the investment.

When you choose Morris-Jenkins for tankless water heater installations in the Charlotte area, we’ll help you consider all factors to make the best choice for your home. 

Professional Tankless Water Heater Installation in the Charlotte Area

So you’ve decided that a tankless water heater is the right choice for your home; nicely done, that’s the first step! But just as important as the type of system you’re installing is who you trust to install it. 

At Morris-Jenkins, we’ll help you get the most out of your new tankless water heater. Our friendly plumbers know their stuff and will make sure your system is sized and installed just right—no guesswork, no shortcuts. We’ll handle all the tricky parts so you don’t have to, and before we leave, we’ll walk you through how everything works (without all the confusing jargon). 

Plus, if you ever have questions down the road, you know we’re just a phone call away!

Need a New Tankless Water Heater? Contact Morris-Jenkins!

Morris-Jenkins has the team of tankless water heater pros you need to get the job done right. From helping you pick the perfect system for your home to installing it with care, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Ready to get started? So are we! Give us a call or contact us online today to schedule your appointment in the Charlotte area.

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