Point of Use Water Heater vs Tankless Water Heater System

For your instant hot water needs, you have two main kinds of systems for your consideration. These are the ordinary water heater and the tankless systems respectively. Given that they share common similarities, picking the right one might never be that simple. That is why the discussion Point of use water heater vs tankless water heater arrive into the table & you have to be guided appropriately.

We shall start out by defining these two systems and examining what they each stand for.

Point Of Use Water Heater

As the name suggests, the point-of-use water heater makes your water hot just before it is discharged via the faucet. In most cases, this system is used to re-heat water which had already been heated by the central heating unit. It contains a tank which holds the water during the heating process.

1. Medium Size

They are smaller than the central heating units but larger than the tankless counterparts. For this reason, they incorporate both benefits at a time. That means you enjoy space efficiency but at the same time get to obtain higher heating temperatures. This also means you do not have to set aside too much installation space.

2. Higher Capacity

Compared to the tankless, they have a higher water storage capacity. For this reason, they are more likely to yield you the convenience you might be looking for. Only be sure to acquire that heater whose capacity is sufficient for your use. Take some care of your available space as you do this though.

3. Longevity

Generally speaking, this heater system is designed to last longer. Its parts are resistant to corrosion and are hence capable of enduring the test of time. Due to the strong makeup, expect it also to inflict negligible repair and maintenance incidences on your part. That means you also save some money.

4. Permanence

If you are looking for a water heater system for long term use, this is the one to opt for. It is strong, fits well in your limited installation space and is hence reliable in the long run. As a matter of fact, you may make it a permanent part of your home during the construction process.

5. Instantaneous

Lastly, the water heater systems are instantaneous. This is to mean that they give off the hot water on demand. When engaged, they respond almost immediately as they take up almost no delay time in this. You will hence find them quite appropriate when operating on squeezed schedules.

Point Of Use Tankless Systems

These too are pretty similar to the ordinary water heater systems. It only differs in the sense that it lacks a tank and heats your water on demand. All factors considered the tankless heater systems use less energy to bring about the same outcomes as the water heater counterparts.

1. Compact Size

Of all the major water heater systems, it is tankless that take up the least amounts of space. This makes them suited for the tiniest accommodation facilities available. At the same time, they also do not impose any undue inconveniences. Hardly will you hit yourself against it.

2. Energy Efficient

As stated above, the tankless system is the most energy-efficient of all the systems available. The main reason underlying this is the fact that it heats water only when you want it. You are hence less likely to incur huge utility bills by choosing to work with it.

3. Limited Capacity

Given that they do not have a tank, their capacity is very limited. They only handle a small amount of water at any given time. If yours is a large family, it is unlikely that you will be able to find this system relevant. Otherwise, be prepared to wait for too long.

4. Saves Money

Two main factors make this system cheaper to afford. This system is cheaper to come by generally. Further, it is also cheaper to maintain when compared to the remaining two. It hence follows that your choice of this system is a sure way to save yourself some money.

5. Very Convenient

If you change locations every now and then, the tankless system is yet again the one to go for. It is possible for you to uninstall this system and install it in a foreign location easily. This stems from its relative simplicity and compact size.

Can You Use A Water Heater For A Shower?

YES, you can! The ordinary shower discharges water at a rate of only 1.5 gallons per minute. Most point-of-use water heaters are designed to discharge water at the same or faster rates. It is hence possible for you to use the system for your normal showering.

That aside, a number of benefits also come along with the use of this system:

1. Instant Hot Water

We started out by saying that this system heats water at the point of use. The shower is by far the most if not one of the most significant points of use. It is at this point that you will find the systems quite handy.

2. Lower Energy Bills

For a large part, this water system only heats the water that you require and when you need it. You will, therefore, enjoy reduced utility bills. The reason is that your electricity will be consumed only at that time when you need it and for heating the quantity of water you want.

3. Longevity

Deliberate efforts have been put by the manufacturer to make this system last and endure the test of time. This is evidenced by the tough material construction and resistance to corrosion. Your use of this system will hence absolve you from higher costs of repairs and maintenance associated with them.

4. Space Savings

Lastly, you will also enjoy the benefit of space-savings. In all, this system is small and compact enough to take up the least amount of mounting space. Even if you stay in a condominium, you are certain to find a system that is relevant to your use.

Conclusion

The verdict is clear! Both the ordinary water heater and the tankless systems are great pieces of home plumbing equipment. You badly want to acquire and make use of at least one of them. Your financial resources base and the size of your home are the two key determinants of the most suitable one.