Tankless Water Heater Repair, Installation,
& Maintenance in Nashville, TN

For many homeowners, upgrading to a tankless water heater can be a smart investment. These systems offer greater energy efficiency, reduced utility costs, an almost endless supply of hot water, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank-style units.

However, it’s important to weigh some potential drawbacks, such as the higher upfront cost, limited flow rate, and challenges in meeting hot water demands in larger households with simultaneous usage.

The lifespan of a tankless water heater varies based on factors such as the fuel type, manufacturer, quality of the local water supply, usage patterns, and how well maintenance schedules are followed. Generally, most modern tankless water heaters can last between 15 and 20 years before needing replacement.

Tankless water heaters come in different fuel types, primarily gas (natural gas or propane) and electric. Gas models are available in both condensing and non-condensing versions, while electric units can be designed for whole-house use or as point-of-use systems.

Choosing the right tankless water heater for your home depends on several factors, including your household size, hot water demand, initial investment, energy efficiency, installation requirements, and available space. It’s always best to consult with a licensed plumber to determine the most suitable option for your needs.

We advise flushing your tankless water heater annually, particularly if your home has hard water. Additionally, it’s important to clean the air filter regularly, inspect and test electrical components, and follow the maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer for your specific tankless system.

Yes, tankless water heaters require regular flushing, although the process is typically quicker than with traditional tank-style water heaters. It’s important to flush all water heaters at least once a year to eliminate sediment and mineral buildup, which can impact their performance and efficiency. While tankless units generally experience less buildup than conventional models, routine maintenance remains essential.

Flow rate refers to the amount of hot water a water heater can produce, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Most units provide between 2 and 5 GPM. Experts recommend a minimum of 3.25 GPM for optimal performance across various plumbing fixtures, as a higher flow rate means more hot water is available. This measurement is crucial because it determines whether the water heater can meet your household’s hot water needs, especially during peak usage times, and helps guide the proper sizing of your system. If you plan to run multiple appliances, showers, or faucets at the same time, you might need a unit with a higher flow rate or consider installing multiple water heaters.

No, a tankless water heater won’t increase your electric bill; in fact, it often helps lower your utility costs compared to traditional tank-style heaters. Because tankless systems heat water only when needed rather than storing it, they operate more efficiently and reduce energy waste. While electric tankless heaters rely entirely on electricity, gas-powered models use electricity mainly for ignition and electronic controls, keeping overall energy consumption lower.

While tankless water heaters offer many advantages, they also come with some drawbacks, such as a higher upfront cost, potential challenges in meeting high hot water demand when multiple fixtures run at once, and flow rate limitations for larger households. To fully understand the benefits and limitations, be sure to consult a plumbing professional at Pipe Wrench today and get expert guidance on whether a tankless water heater is the right choice for your home.