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3 Choices to Consider Before Tankless Water Heater Installation

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You may have chosen to go with a tankless water heater for a variety of reasons including the ability to save energy. You may think the installation is cut and dry and are likely leaving the process up to a plumber or professional with a background in tankless water heater options. There are a few choices, however, that you may want to consider before scheduling the installation appointment. Here are three choices you may face.

Solar or Electric Energy

One of the first choices you may have is about the type of energy you want to use to heat the water for your tankless system. Your main choices will be electricity or solar hot water systems. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are already on an electrical power system for your home, then using that energy resource will help you keep the cost of the tankless water heater installation low. You won't have to worry about having another energy source installed and paying the additional fee for that installation.

On the other hand, solar power can help reduce your energy expenses over the long-term since you are using natural energy rather than paid energy from your local electricity provider. The choice really comes down to a matter of preference and what your end goals are for energy consumption, savings, and water heating throughout your home. If you aren't sure how this will break down over time, your installation specialist can help you decide based on a consultation for your specific needs and home lifestyle.

Proper Location of a Tankless Hot Water System

You may wonder if it really matters where you have the solar tankless hot water system installed. The truth is, it does to a certain degree. Remember, the water being used is heated on demand instead of hot and ready to use. This means it may take a few seconds to have the water heat up in your location. For example, if you are using gas to heat the water, it can take 10-15 seconds to heat the water. In some cases, it may take longer to get the hot water to your location if the tankless system is located on the far side of the home away from your bathroom or kitchen. Keep this in mind when you decide where you want the tankless system installed.

Type of Warranty

Another choice you may have to make deals with the warranty. You may be asked if you want a warranty on the entire unit, just certain parts, or on labor for repairs only. Ideally you want a warranty that will cover not only the parts, but also the labor if you need a repair. You may also want to check into extended warranty options for when the manufacturer warranty runs out.

These are just three of the choices to consider before scheduling your tankless hot water system installation. If you have any other questions or if you are concerned about the installation process itself, or if you want to see the differences in using a solar or traditional tankless hot water system, contact your installation professional for a consultation.


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