Thinking About Going Tankless? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Switch

Here at High Speed Plumbing, we are a trusted plumbing company that specializes in tankless water heater installation and repairs. Our plumbers have the expertise and experience to install and service all types of water heaters in residential and commercial properties. In today’s blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about tankless water heaters.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Unlike traditional water heaters that store gallons of hot water in a tank, tankless models heat water only when you need it. The system uses powerful heating elements or a gas burner to warm the water as it passes through the unit. That means you don’t waste energy keeping water hot 24/7.

The Benefits of Going Tankless

One of the biggest advantages is endless hot water. Since tankless systems don’t rely on a limited storage tank, you won’t have to worry about cold showers if you’re the last in line. They’re also much more energy efficient, often reducing energy use by 20–30% compared to traditional systems. Another benefit is their compact size. Tankless heaters are wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space in basements, closets, or utility rooms. In addition, with proper maintenance, tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years or more. This is nearly double the lifespan of traditional tank models.

Things to Consider Before You Switch

While tankless systems sound like a perfect solution, they’re not ideal for every household. First, the upfront cost is higher than standard water heaters, though the long-term energy savings often make up for it. You’ll also want to make sure your home’s gas or electrical system can handle the demand, since tankless units require a considerable amount of power when heating water. In larger households where multiple showers, dishwashers, and laundry machines might run at the same time, you may need a higher-capacity system or even multiple units to keep up with demand. A local plumbing repair service can help you select the right size tankless water heater to avoid surprises down the road.

Professional Installation Matters

Tankless water heaters aren’t a DIY project. Proper installation is crucial for performance, safety, and efficiency. A licensed plumber can evaluate your home’s plumbing and energy system to recommend the right unit size and ensure everything is installed correctly. They’ll also help you understand any maintenance requirements, such as descaling the system to prevent mineral buildup if you have hard water. Even water heater repair should be left to a skilled and experienced plumbing company.