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Are you tired of running out of hot water during those long showers or when doing laundry?
Well, here's a game-changer: an electric continuous water heater!
These systems give you hot water on demand, meaning you won't have to wait for a tank to fill up or worry about the water running cold mid-shower. Imagine never running out of hot water again, especially in large households or during high-demand times.
So, what makes an electric continuous water heater stand out?
The answer lies in its efficiency and reliability. These units heat water directly as it flows through the system, which means no energy is wasted on keeping a tank of water hot.
Plus, their compact design saves space — perfect for smaller homes or apartments.
At Excel Mechanical, we specialize in offering top-tier HVAC and plumbing services for homes and businesses. Our team of experts is ready to help you pick the right electric continuous water heater, considering your needs, space, and budget.
Whether you're looking for efficiency, savings, or a space-saving option, we've got you covered!
In this section, you’ll learn:
The key advantages of switching to an electric continuous water heater.
How these systems offer reliable, on-demand hot water without a storage tank.
Why Excel Mechanical is your go-to expert for finding the perfect water heater for your home or business.
Let’s find out!
Understanding Electric Continuous Water Heaters
Looking for a smarter way to heat your water?
An electric continuous (or tankless) water heater might just be the perfect solution for your home. But how do these heaters work, and why should you consider making the switch?
Let’s break it down!
How Electric Tankless Water Heaters Work
Electric tankless water heaters work by heating water directly as it flows through the unit.
When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water flows into the unit, where it is heated by an electric heating element.
The hot water then flows out of the unit and to your faucet or showerhead. Because the water is heated on demand, there is no need for a storage tank, which can save you space and energy.
One of the key advantages of electric tankless water heaters is their efficiency.
Because they only heat water as it is needed, they are more efficient than traditional tank water heaters, which constantly heat and reheat water in a storage tank.
This can lead to significant energy savings over time.
Benefits of Going Tankless
There are many benefits to choosing an electric tankless water heater over a traditional tank water heater.
Endless Hot Water – Tankless heaters provide hot water on demand, so you’ll never run out, whether you have multiple people showering or need to run the dishwasher.
Space-Saving Design – Since there’s no storage tank, electric tankless water heaters are compact and take up much less space, perfect for homes or businesses with limited room.
Long-Term Savings – Because they’re more energy-efficient, these heaters can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills over time.
No More Waiting for Hot Water – With traditional tanks, you have to wait for the hot water to fill up again. But with electric tankless water heaters, the water is heated on the spot, meaning no more waiting for the tank to refill.
Installation and Sizing
When it comes to installing your electric continuous water heater, getting the right size and professional installation is crucial for ensuring the unit works efficiently and meets your household's hot water needs.
Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice for your home or business.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Home
Have you ever bought something too small or too big for your space?
It’s the same with water heaters. You don’t want one that’s too small, causing you to run out of hot water during peak demand. But you also don’t want one that’s too large and wastes energy and money.
So, how do you find the sweet spot?
The size of your water heater is determined by a few factors:
How many people are in your household?
How many bathrooms do you have?
How often do you use hot water? (Think about showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.)
A general guideline is that a family of four typically needs a unit with a capacity of 4 to 5 gallons per minute (GPM) for normal usage.
But if you have more bathrooms, or if multiple people will be using hot water at the same time, you might need a unit with a higher GPM to avoid running out of hot water during busy times.
Professional Installation Considerations
Professional installation of your electric continuous water heater is highly recommended to ensure safety and proper function.
A licensed and experienced installer can help ensure that the unit is installed correctly, including proper electrical connections and venting. They can also help you choose the right location for the unit, taking into account factors like accessibility and ventilation.
At Excel Mechanical, we take care of:
Correct placement of the unit
Securing proper electrical connections and venting (if necessary)
Ensuring safe operation and avoiding any electrical hazards or leaks
Hiring a professional is not just about getting the job done; it’s about doing it right.
We’re here to make sure your electric continuous water heater installation goes smoothly, and we’ll be there for any adjustments you may need down the road.
Cost and Energy Efficiency
When it comes to installing an electric continuous water heater, there are two big factors you'll need to consider: cost and energy efficiency.
These two aspects go hand in hand, impacting both your upfront investment and long-term savings.
So, how can you balance both?
Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Savings
Electric continuous water heaters have a lower upfront cost compared to gas heaters. This is because they do not require a gas line and venting system, which can be expensive to install.
However, electric water heaters may have higher energy bills in the long run, which can offset the initial savings.
Energy Efficiency and Utility Bills
One of the key benefits of electric continuous water heaters is their energy efficiency.
These systems are typically rated with a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), which measures how efficiently a water heater converts energy into usable hot water.
The higher the UEF, the more energy-efficient the system is.
While electric heaters might have a slightly higher operational cost in some areas (due to electricity rates), their UEF rating ensures that you’re getting the most out of your energy consumption.
This means that, in the long run, you’ll still enjoy lower energy costs compared to traditional tank heaters that waste energy by constantly reheating water.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Now that you’ve decided on an electric continuous water heater, it’s essential to think about maintenance and how to keep it running efficiently for years to come.
After all, a well-maintained system will not only last longer but also continue to perform at its best, saving you both time and money.
Routine Maintenance Requirements
Electric continuous water heaters require routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Some of the maintenance requirements include:
Flushing the system regularly to remove mineral buildup and sediment that can reduce efficiency and damage the system over time.
Checking the pressure relief valve to ensure it is functioning correctly and replacing it if necessary.
Inspecting the system for leaks or damage and repairing any issues promptly.
Cleaning the air intake filter to prevent blockages and ensure proper airflow.
By following these routine maintenance requirements, you can extend the lifespan of your electric continuous water heater and prevent costly repairs or replacements.
Expected Lifespan of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Let’s talk about longevity – because you don’t want to replace your water heater every few years!
The good news is that electric continuous water heaters are known for their long lifespan.
On average, these units can last 20+ years if maintained properly. Compare that to traditional tank heaters, which typically last around 10-15 years, and it’s clear that a tankless system can be a real long-term investment.
With regular maintenance (and if you’ve chosen the right size and model), you can expect your electric tankless water heater to keep working smoothly, providing you with hot water on demand for years.
Comparing Electric with Gas Tankless Water Heaters
If you're torn between choosing an electric or gas tankless water heater, you're not alone.
Both types offer distinct advantages, but the decision ultimately comes down to your home's needs, budget, and environmental considerations.
Let’s break down the key factors that can help you make the best choice.
Differences in Fuel Source
First off, the fuel source is the biggest difference between electric and gas tankless water heaters.
Electric tankless heaters rely on electricity to heat the water. They are easier to install and maintain since they don’t require a gas line or venting system. This can be especially convenient if your home doesn’t already have a gas supply. They are also generally safer since there's no risk of gas leaks.
Gas tankless heaters, on the other hand, use natural gas or propane. These heaters are typically more powerful and can provide a larger flow rate of hot water. If you live in a large household with high water demands (think multiple showers and appliances running at the same time), gas may be the better choice because it can handle these demands more efficiently.
Environmental Impact and Energy Factor
Electric tankless water heaters tend to have a higher energy factor than gas heaters.
This means that they are more efficient at converting energy into heat, resulting in lower energy costs over time.
Additionally, they are more environmentally friendly, as they do not emit any harmful gases into the atmosphere.
At Excel Mechanical, we understand the importance of choosing the right water heater for your home or business. That's why we offer a wide range of electric and gas tankless water heaters to meet your individual needs and budget.
Our team of professionals strives for exceptional quality and great value, ensuring that you receive the best possible system for your specific requirements.
Whether you need residential or commercial HVAC and plumbing services, Excel Mechanical is the best option for quality and affordability. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve optimal comfort and efficiency in your home or business.
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