Endless Hot Water and Energy Savings: Choosing the Perfect Tankless Water Heater
If you’re tired of the hot water running out just when you need it most, it’s time to consider a tankless water heater. Not only will you enjoy endless hot water, but you can also save money and help the environment at the same time.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about tankless water heaters—from how they work and how to choose the right size, to exploring top brands like Rinnai and Noritz. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your next water heater upgrade and ready to explore our collection.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater, sometimes called an on-demand or instant water heater, heats water directly as it flows through the device. Unlike traditional heaters with bulky tanks, there’s no reservoir to keep warm 24/7. Instead, you get hot water whenever you turn on the tap. There are many benefits to installing a tankless water heater in your home.
Whole-House Units are designed to handle multiple appliances at the same time, ensuring your entire home stays powered and running smoothly, even during high-demand periods.
Key Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
With a tankless system, you can enjoy endless hot water whenever you need it. Unlike traditional water heaters that store a limited amount of hot water, tankless systems heat water on demand. This means you can take back-to-back showers, run the dishwasher, and do laundry—all without the frustration of waiting for the water to reheat. It's an efficient, convenient solution for busy households or anyone who values consistent hot water.
Since there’s no need to keep a large tank of water hot all day, tankless water heaters use less energy by heating water only when you need it. This on-demand system not only reduces energy consumption but also helps you save significantly on your utility bills over time, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice for your home.
A high-quality unit like a Rinnai tankless water heater is built to last, with a lifespan of up to 20 years, which is often double the lifespan of a standard tank heater. Unlike traditional heaters that store and continuously heat water, tankless systems heat water on demand, reducing wear and tear over time and offering a more energy-efficient solution for your home.
Without a bulky tank, you save precious space in your basement or utility room, giving you more room for storage or other equipment while keeping your space organized and clutter-free.
With a tankless water heater, there is no risk of rust or scale build-up that sometimes plagues old tank heaters, which store water over time. This means you can enjoy cleaner water delivered directly to your fixtures, free from contaminants that could affect the taste, quality, or safety of your water. Plus, tankless systems heat water on demand, ensuring a fresher supply every time you need it.
With the right size and type, tankless water heaters can fit just about any household, providing endless hot water on demand. They are compact, energy-efficient, and a great solution for homes looking to save space while enjoying reliable hot water whenever needed.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
When you turn on a hot water faucet, cold water flows into the tankless water heater, where it passes through a powerful heat exchanger. This advanced system quickly and efficiently heats the water to your desired temperature, providing hot water on demand. Unlike traditional water heaters, there’s no waiting for a tank to refill or reheat, and you’ll never run out of hot water. That means no interruptions, no cold showers, and a reliable, endless stream of hot water whenever you need it, whether for a quick hand wash or a long, relaxing shower.
Tankless water heaters are surprisingly straightforward when it comes to maintenance, making them a convenient option for homeowners. Regular upkeep is essential to ensure efficiency and extend the unit's lifespan. Tasks like learning how to flush a tankless water heater are not only simple but also critical for long-term performance, as flushing helps remove mineral buildup that can reduce efficiency over time. If you’re planning to handle the maintenance yourself, start by reviewing the owner’s manual for step-by-step instructions. It usually includes tips on what tools you’ll need and how often the process should be done based on your water quality. With proper care, your tankless unit can continue delivering hot water on demand for years to come.
Choosing the Right Type of Tankless Water Heater
Not all tankless water heaters are created equal. You’ve got options, and your decision comes down to your home’s needs, your fuel source, and your lifestyle.
The most important factor when choosing a new water heater is to consider what kind of fuel you already have in your home and then finding a compatible tankless. Fuel types include natural gas or liquid propane. There are some units from Rinnai that can do both fuel types without a conversion kit.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, consult with a professional. They’ll help you match your home and lifestyle with the best tankless solution.
What Size Tankless Water Heater Do I Need?
This is the million-dollar question (or at least the one that keeps homeowners debating endlessly online). Getting the right size is crucial if you want non-stop hot water without over-buying.
Gallons per Minute (GPM) Sizing Formula
Calculate Your Peak Demand: Think about how many hot water fixtures you'd use at once, including showerheads, faucets, dishwashers, washer machines, and more. For example, if your shower uses 2 GPM, your dishwasher uses 1.5 GPM, and washing machine uses 2 GPM.
Add up all GPM rates you’ll need when everything’s running. In this example, you would need a tankless water heater with at least a 5.5 GPM capacity.
Factor in Desired Temperature Rise: How much hotter do you need the water compared to its incoming temperature? For example, if your peak demand is 5 GPM and you want a 60°F temperature increase, your unit must handle at least that output.
Pick a model that matches your maximum usage or talk to your contractor for expert sizing.
How to Install a Tankless Water Heater
Professionals can usually swap your old tank for a tankless model in under a day. If you’re curious about how to install a tankless water heater, here’s the basic rundown:
- Turn off water, gas (or electricity), and drain the old unit.
- Mount the new unit on the wall. Wall units are usually much lighter and more compact.
- Attach gas, water, and any necessary venting.
- Test for leaks and calibrate temperature settings.
- Flush and maintain the unit, as outlined in the manual.
Some handy homeowners tackle installation themselves, but keep in mind that improper setup could void your warranty or even violate local codes.
How to Flush a Tankless Water Heater and Why It Matters
Just like coffee pots and washing machines, tankless heaters need regular cleaning to prevent scale buildup. Flushing the unit removes mineral deposits, keeps things running smoothly, and extends the life of your system.
Most experts suggest flushing your heater at least once a year. You can use a solution such as JC Whitlam Flow-Aide Descaler, which comes in a 32-ounce or a 1-gallon container, to easily remove mineral deposit. JC Whitlam also makes a Flow-Aide System Descaler Kit that has everything you need to clean your tankless water heater.
Here’s a high-level look:
Turn off power and water.
Attach hoses to the service ports.
Run vinegar (or descaling solution) through the unit.
Rinse, reassemble, and enjoy trouble-free hot water.
Remember that each tankless model is different. Some tankless units need to be put into a specific setting for flushing while powered on with the gas off, and other models need to be off.
The Best Brands: Rinnai Tankless Water Heater and Noritz
Homeowners and contractors swear by brands such as Rinnai and Noritz due to their reputation, variety of units, customer service, and innovative features. Shopping from a trusted source means no worries about off-brand headaches down the line.
Both brands have stellar reputations for producing durable, highly efficient units that stand the test of time. They are known for their commitment to quality, reliability, and delivering top-notch performance, making them a trusted choice for consumers.
Whether you need a whole-house powerhouse to keep your entire home running or a compact electric unit for specific needs, these brands offer a wide range of units available, designed to suit various preferences, budgets, and power requirements. From high-capacity systems to portable options, there's something for everyone.
Both brands offer excellent customer service and comprehensive warranties, ensuring you have peace of mind with your purchase. From responsive support teams to warranties that cover key components, these brands are committed to keeping your water heating system running smoothly, so you’re never left in the cold.
Rinnai and Noritz units offer a range of innovative features designed to enhance both convenience and efficiency. These features include Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to control your water heater remotely through a smartphone app, and built-in recirculation pumps that provide hot water on demand, reducing wait times and water waste. Additionally, their latest models prioritize environmental sustainability with ultra-low NOx emissions, helping to reduce their impact on air quality while delivering top-notch performance.
Why Upgrade Now?
ENERGY STAR-certified tankless water heaters are not only more efficient but can also lead to hundreds of dollars in savings on utility bills for a typical family each year. Unlike traditional water heaters, these systems heat water on demand, reducing energy waste and providing a continuous supply of hot water when you need it.
Tankless water heaters are eco-friendly and designed to provide hot water on demand without the need for a storage tank. They have a lower energy consumption, as they only heat water when needed, resulting in a smaller carbon footprint and reduced energy bills. This efficient system not only saves energy but also helps preserve natural resources, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Tankless water heaters are modern, energy-efficient, and highly sought-after home features that can boost your property value. Unlike traditional water heaters, they provide hot water on demand, take up less space, and often reduce energy bills, making them an attractive upgrade for potential buyers.
And if your old tank heater is over 10 years old, you’re likely due for an upgrade anyway.
Recommended Tankless Water Heaters
Rinnai RX Series RXP199IN 11.1 GPM 199,000 BTU Indoor Outdoor Condensing Tankless Water Heater with Integrated Pump
The Rinnai RX Series RXP199IN is a fantastic option for homeowners considering a tankless water heater.
Rinnai is a well-established brand with over 100 years of experience in the water heater market. Known for its innovation and quality, Rinnai has earned a reputation as a leader in the industry. Homeowners appreciate the brand's commitment to energy efficiency and durability, making it a trusted choice for many.
The RXP199IN offers a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.98, which means it operates with exceptional efficiency. This high efficiency can lead to significant energy savings and lower utility bills over time.
One of the standout features of this model is its built-in recirculation pump. This pump learns your household's hot water usage patterns, ensuring hot water is available when you need it, reducing both wait times and water waste.
The RXP199IN can be installed both indoors and outdoors, thanks to its Versa-Vent accessory. This flexibility allows homeowners to choose the best installation location based on their specific needs and space constraints.
Despite its powerful performance, the RXP199IN is compact, roughly the size of a small suitcase. This makes it easy to install in various spaces without taking up much room, ideal for homes with limited space.
The unit is Wi-Fi capable, allowing you to monitor and control your water heater remotely via a smartphone app. This feature adds convenience and helps you manage your energy usage more effectively.
Rinnai water heaters are known for their long lifespan, often lasting twice as long as traditional tank models. The RXP199IN comes with a robust warranty, providing homeowners with peace of mind and assurance of its durability.
Rinnai RE Series RE199IN 9.8 GPM 199,000 BTU Indoor Natural Gas Non-Condensing Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai RE Series RE199IN Tankless Water Heater is a superb second option for homeowners considering a tankless water heater. This model is available for homes with natural gas fuel or liquid propane fuel.
Just like the RXP199IN, the Rinnai RE199IN is compact, making it easy to install in various spaces. It is also Wi-Fi ready, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their water heater remotely via a smartphone app. Like most Rinnai models, the RE199IN is built to have a long lifespan and comes with a robust warranty.
The RE199IN boasts a UEF of 0.82 meaning it operates with high efficiency and is designed to maximize energy usage. This not only ensures reliable performance but can also result in noticeable energy savings over time, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for modern households.
With a maximum flow rate of 9.8 GPM, the RE199IN is designed to deliver an impressive amount of hot water, making it ideal for households with high water demands. It can provide hot water to multiple fixtures at the same time, such as showers, faucets, and even appliances, ensuring you never run out of hot water, even during peak usage. This reliable performance makes it a perfect solution for busy families or larger homes.
The RE199IN features an optimized concentric vertical or horizontal venting system termination, providing exceptional flexibility for installation in a variety of spaces. This innovative design not only simplifies the installation process but also enhances airflow efficiency, ensuring reliable and efficient operation. Whether you’re working with tight spaces or unique layouts, the RE199IN adapts seamlessly to meet your needs.
Noritz EZTR75NG Natural Gas Residential 75 Gallon Tankless Water Heater
The Noritz EZTR75NG Natural Gas Residential 75 Gallon Tankless Water Heater is a top-tier option for homeowners looking for a tankless water heater that combines high capacity, efficiency, and reliability. Its advanced features and the strong reputation of the Noritz brand make it a standout choice in the market.
Noritz is a highly respected brand in the water heater industry, known for its innovation and quality. With decades of experience, Noritz has built a reputation for producing reliable and efficient water heaters that cater to both residential and commercial needs. Homeowners appreciate the brand's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, making it a trusted choice.
The EZTR75NG is designed to replace traditional 75-gallon tank water heaters, providing a high flow rate and ensuring an endless supply of hot water. This makes it ideal for larger households or homes with high hot water demand.
This model operates with a high UEF, which translates to significant energy savings and lower utility bills over time. It heats water only when needed, reducing energy consumption.
Despite its high capacity, the EZTR75NG is compact and space-saving. This makes it easy to install in various locations, including tight spaces where traditional tank heaters might not fit.
The EZTR75NG features advanced technology that ensures efficient operation and reliable performance. It includes a single vent conversion kit and a flex vent conversion kit, simplifying installation and enhancing versatility.
Noritz water heaters are known for their long lifespan and robust construction. The EZTR75NG is built to withstand the demands of regular use, providing homeowners with peace of mind and assurance of its durability.
Equipped with multiple safety features, including flame sensors, overheat prevention, and freeze protection, the EZTR75NG ensures safe and reliable operation.
Valves and Accessories
Rinnai 107000639 Dedicated Return with Isolation Valves and PRV
The Rinnai 107000639 Dedicated Return with Isolation Valves and PRV is a valuable accessory for homeowners looking to enhance their tankless water heater installation. Its comprehensive features and ease of use make it a standout choice for ensuring efficient and safe operation of your Rinnai tankless water heater.
This kit includes a hot water valve, cold water valve, and a return line, making it a complete solution for setting up a dedicated recirculation line. This simplifies the installation process and ensures all necessary components are included.
The inclusion of hot and cold isolation valves allows for easy maintenance and servicing of the water heater. These valves enable you to isolate the water heater from the rest of the plumbing system without shutting off the entire water supply.
The kit comes with a pressure relief valve, which is crucial for safety. The PRV helps to protect the water heater and plumbing system from excessive pressure, ensuring safe operation.
Made from high-quality materials, this kit is designed to withstand the demands of regular use. The robust construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
This dedicated return kit is specifically designed for use with tankless units that have recirculation capability. It simplifies the setup of a dedicated recirculation line, which can help reduce water waste and improve hot water delivery times.
Noritz IK-WV-200-3-TH-LF 3/4" Threaded Iso Valve Kit with Male 500K BTU Pressure Relief Valve Lead Free
The Noritz IK-WV-200-3-TH-LF 3/4" Threaded Isolation Valve Kit is an essential accessory for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of your Noritz tankless water heater. Its comprehensive features and ease of use make it a standout choice for homeowners.
This kit includes both hot and cold isolation valves, which are essential for maintaining and servicing your tankless water heater. These valves allow you to isolate the water heater from the rest of the plumbing system without shutting off the entire water supply.
The kit comes with a 500,000 BTU pressure relief valve. This valve is critical for safety, as it helps to protect the water heater and plumbing system from excessive pressure, ensuring safe operation.
The components of this kit are lead-free, making them safe for use in residential plumbing systems. This ensures compliance with health and safety standards.
The 3/4" threaded connections make installation straightforward and secure. These connections are designed to fit seamlessly with your existing plumbing, reducing the risk of leaks and ensuring a tight fit.
Made from high-quality materials, this kit is built to withstand the demands of regular use. The robust construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
The kit is designed to simplify the installation process of your tankless water heater. It includes all necessary components, making it easier for homeowners or professionals to set up the system efficiently.
Upgrade to Endless Hot Water—with Confidence
Choosing a tankless water heater is about more than just convenience; it’s a smart investment in your home's comfort and efficiency. By understanding what a tankless water heater offers, learning how it works, and choosing the right size and trusted brand like Rinnai or Noritz, you set yourself up for years of stress-free hot showers and utility savings.
Have questions about what size tankless water heater you need, or want advice about natural gas versus liquid propane? Our team is here to help.
Explore our tankless water heater collection and make cold showers a thing of the past.
