Why Tankless Water Heaters are Hot in Atlanta: Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
In recent years, Atlanta homeowners have increasingly turned to tankless water heaters as a more efficient, cost-effective alternative to traditional tank-based systems. This shift is driven by several factors, including rising energy costs, a growing awareness of environmental impacts, and the desire for more reliable and consistent hot water supply. At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, we've seen firsthand the benefits of tankless water heaters and how excited Atlanta residents are about installing them in their homes.
In this blog, we'll explore:
1. Why tankless water heaters are gaining popularity in the Greater Atlanta area
2. The benefits they offer
3. How they can contribute to both energy efficiency and cost savings.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater, often referred to as an on-demand water heater, heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where a gas burner or an electric element heats the water instantly. This provides a continuous supply of hot water without the need for a storage tank that constantly maintains a large volume of hot water.
The Growing Popularity of Tankless Water Heaters in Atlanta
As our north metro Atlanta region continues to grow and evolve, more homeowners have been finding ways to save money. As a result, many of your neighbors have become more energy efficient with tankless heater installs. We’ve seen this as we’re the ones installing them! We’ve installed numerous tankless heaters over the years in Snellville, Lawrenceville, Suwanee, and many surrounding towns. We have only seen their popularity grow.
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the primary reasons for the rise of tankless water heaters in Atlanta is their energy efficiency. Traditional tank water heaters continuously heat water to maintain a set temperature, even when not in use. This process, known as standby heat loss, leads to significant energy waste. In contrast, tankless water heaters only heat water when needed, eliminating standby heat loss and using energy more efficiently.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy-efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. For homes that use more water—around 86 gallons per day—tankless water heaters can still be 8%–14% more efficient. These savings can add up, particularly for those of us who own homes in the Atlanta area where energy costs can be a significant portion of the household budget.
2. Cost Savings
The initial investment in a tankless water heater is generally higher than that of a traditional tank system. However, the long-term savings can more than make up for the upfront cost. Because tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient, homeowners can expect to see lower monthly utility bills. Over time, these savings can be substantial, particularly as energy costs continue to rise.
Additionally, tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters. While a conventional tank water heater might last 10-15 years, a tankless system can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This longevity means that homeowners will not need to replace their water heater as frequently, resulting in further cost savings over the long term.
3. Space-Saving Design
Another reason tankless water heaters are gaining popularity in Atlanta is their compact, space-saving design. Unlike bulky tank water heaters, which can take up a significant amount of space in a utility room or basement, tankless water heaters are small and can be mounted on a wall. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas of Atlanta where space can be at a premium, or simply when you’d rather not waste precious closet space for a large bulky water heater.
The ability to install a tankless water heater in a variety of locations—including closets, bathrooms, and even outdoors—gives homeowners more flexibility in their home design and layout. We’ve installed water heaters in a closet in Buford, in a garage in Winder, as well as in basement, bathrooms, laundry rooms, etc. This space-saving feature is especially attractive for those who are building custom homes or remodeling older properties in the Atlanta area.
4. Continuous Hot Water Supply
For many homeowners, one of the most appealing aspects of a tankless water heater is the promise of a continuous supply of hot water. Traditional tank water heaters can run out of hot water if the tank is depleted, which can be a common issue during peak usage times, such as when multiple people are showering in the morning. Ever have guests over and you embarrassingly run out of hot water for showers? That can now be avoided.
With a tankless water heater, there is no waiting for a tank to refill and reheat. As long as the unit is properly sized for the home’s water needs, it can provide hot water indefinitely. This is particularly advantageous for large families or households with high hot water demand.
5. Environmental Benefits
As concerns about climate change and environmental impact grow, more homeowners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Tankless water heaters are an eco-friendly option because they use less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional water heaters. By switching to a tankless system, Atlanta homeowners can contribute to a more sustainable future while also enjoying the personal benefits of lower energy bills and reliable hot water.
6. Rebates and Incentives
In many areas, including cities like Lawrenceville and Sugar Hill, there are rebates and incentives available to homeowners who install energy-efficient appliances like tankless water heaters. These incentives can help offset the initial cost of the unit and installation, making the transition to a tankless system more affordable. Homeowners can check with local utility companies or visit websites like Energy.gov to find out what rebates or incentives are currently available in their area. Also, Gwinnett County usually has assistance programs available.
Considerations Before Making the Switch
While tankless water heaters offer many benefits, there are a few factors homeowners should consider before making the switch:
1. Initial Cost
As mentioned earlier, the initial cost of a tankless water heater and its installation can be higher than that of a traditional tank system. However, the long-term savings on energy bills and the extended lifespan of the unit can make it a worthwhile investment.
2. Installation Complexity
Installing a tankless water heater can be more complex than installing a traditional tank system, particularly if you are switching from one to the other. It may require upgrades to your home’s electrical or gas lines, and proper venting is essential for gas-powered units. This is why it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals like First Priority Plumbing & Drain, who have experienced plumbers in the residential plumbing field.
3. Sizing the System
To ensure continuous hot water supply, it’s important to size the tankless water heater correctly based on your household’s hot water needs. An undersized unit may not be able to keep up with demand, leading to inconsistent water temperatures. At First Priority Plumbing, we have the experience to and tools assess your home’s water usage patterns and recommend the right system to meet your needs.
Why Choose First Priority Plumbing for Your Tankless Water Heater Installation?
At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, we have extensive experience installing and maintaining tankless water heaters in homes throughout Gwinnett, Barrow, and Hall counties as well as surrounding areas in Atlanta. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of service, from helping you choose the right system to ensuring a flawless installation.
Here’s why Atlanta homeowners trust us for their tankless water heater needs:
1. Expertise and Experience
We’ve installed numerous tankless water heaters across a variety of home types, from modern condos in Midtown Atlanta to sprawling suburban homes in Braselton. Our team understands the unique needs of Atlanta homeowners and can tailor our services to meet those needs.
2. Quality Products
We partner with top manufacturers to offer the best tankless water heaters on the market. Whether you’re looking for a gas or electric unit, we can provide a system that delivers reliable performance and energy efficiency.
3. Comprehensive Service
Our commitment to you doesn’t end with the installation. We offer ongoing maintenance services to ensure your tankless water heater continues to operate at peak performance. If any issues arise, our team is just a phone call away.
4. Customer Satisfaction
At First Priority Plumbing, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We take the time to listen to your needs, answer your questions, and provide solutions that meet your expectations. Our goal is to make the process of installing a tankless water heater as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Conclusion
The rise of tankless water heaters in Atlanta homes is no surprise given their many advantages, from energy efficiency and cost savings to space-saving design and continuous hot water supply. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits make tankless water heaters an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s comfort and value.
If you’re considering a tankless water heater for your Atlanta home, contact First Priority Plumbing & Drain today at 470-342-8007 or reach out at hello@firstpriority-plumbing.com. Our team of experts is here to help you choose the right system and ensure a professional installation that will serve you well for years to come.
