So, you’ve decided that you are going to retrofit your home with a tankless water heater. It is an energy-efficient way to provide instant hot water for the needs around your home. Unlike a tank-style water heater, it doesn’t use energy to keep a reserve of water warm when you’re not using it. Good for you.
But maybe you have heard that installing new tankless water heaters can be a disruption in your home. Water needs to be re-routed and gas lines may need to be installed. We will work with you to minimize any disruption.
There are several elements that you need to plan, and we can help. A key issue is your energy source. The most common is gas. Gas heats a larger volume of water and can accommodate your entire home with one unit. It needs to be vented and gas must be present in your home. Propane is an alternative.
Electricity is also an option. Electricity generally heats a smaller volume but multiple units can be installed. But keep in mind that, in most cases, electric tankless water heaters cost more to operate than gas versions.
We can help estimate how much hot water you’ll need. Tankless water heaters are measured in gallons per minute and the number of degrees that the water must be heated. Even though Calgary has cold winters, the temperature of the water coming into your home will still be above freezing. For shower water at 50 degrees Celsius, the incoming water will have to be heated approximately 45 degrees. Calculating each use determines how much capacity you will need.
In Calgary, tankless water heaters must also be installed with a water softening system. Calgary’s water is very hard and calcium buildup can decrease efficiency, restrict water flow and damage tankless models. Tankless water heaters do require maintenance as a result of scale build-up.
Converting to a tankless system doesn’t have to be a painful process.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about tankless water heaters and other HVAC topics, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Arpi’s services Calgary, Alberta. To get started, check out our website or see our special offers.
