Electric Tankless Water Heater
A electric tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater or instantaneous water heater, is a type of water heating system that heats water directly without the need for a storage tank. It provides hot water on-demand whenever you need it, which eliminates the standby energy losses associated with traditional storage tank water heaters.
An electric tankless water heater, as the name suggests, uses electricity as its power source to heat the water. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows into the unit, and electric heating elements heat the water as it passes through the system. The heated water then exits the unit and reaches your faucet or shower.
Here are some key features and benefits of electric tankless water heaters:
- Energy Efficiency: Electric tankless water heaters are highly efficient because they only heat water as it is needed. Unlike traditional storage tank heaters, there is no need to constantly keep a large amount of water hot, reducing energy consumption and utility costs.
- Space-Saving Design: Tankless water heaters are compact and wall-mounted, saving valuable space in your home compared to bulky storage tank heaters.
- Endless Hot Water: With a tankless water heater, you don’t have to worry about running out of hot water. It provides a continuous supply of hot water as long as you have power and water supply.
- Longevity: Electric tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan compared to storage tank heaters. They are built with durable components and can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
- Temperature Control: Most electric tankless water heaters allow you to set the desired temperature, giving you precise control over the hot water output.
- Reduced Risk of Water Damage: Since there is no storage tank, the risk of leaks or tank failure causing water damage is eliminated.
It’s important to note that the electrical requirements for electric tankless water heaters can vary depending on the unit’s capacity and the electrical infrastructure of your home. It’s recommended to consult a qualified electrician to ensure your electrical system can handle the load and to properly install the unit.
When selecting an electric tankless water heater, consider factors such as the flow rate (gallons per minute) it can provide, the temperature rise it can achieve, and the specific needs of your household in terms of hot water demand.
How electric tankless water heater works
An electric tankless water heater works by heating the water directly as it flows through the unit, without the need for a storage tank. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it operates:
Water Flow Initiation
When you turn on a hot water tap or appliance, cold water starts to flow into the tankless water heater.
Activation
As water begins to flow, sensors inside the unit detect the water movement and activate the heating elements.
Heating Process
The electric heating elements, typically made of copper or stainless steel, heat up as the water passes through the unit. These heating elements are powered by electricity.
Temperature Adjustment
The temperature of the water is controlled by adjusting the power supplied to the heating elements. Most electric tankless water heaters have control panels or dials that allow you to set the desired temperature.
Heat Exchange
As the water flows over the heating elements, the heat is transferred to the water, raising its temperature.
Hot Water Distribution
Once the water is heated to the desired temperature, it exits the tankless unit and flows through the plumbing system to reach the hot water tap or appliance where it is needed.
Shut-off
When you turn off the hot water tap or appliance, the flow of water stops, and the tankless water heater stops heating.
It’s important to note that the flow rate and temperature rise of an electric tankless water heater can affect its performance. The flow rate refers to the amount of water the unit can heat per minute, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The temperature rise is the difference between the incoming cold water temperature and the desired hot water temperature.
To ensure the proper functioning of an electric tankless water heater, it’s essential to consider factors such as the unit’s capacity, electrical requirements, and the specific hot water demands of your household. Consulting a professional or the manufacturer’s guidelines can help you choose the right size and properly install the unit.
