Pricing tankless water heaters: How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost in 2023?
How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost in 2023?
Tankless water heaters, also called demand-type heaters, have been growing in use in the United States since the 1990s. While conventional water heaters keep a supply of water constantly heated, tankless water heaters heat water as it is needed. Installing a tankless water heater costs an average of $2,360, with most homeowners paying between $1,125 to $3,620.
You can buy a tankless water heater for a national average low of $130, but that doesn’t include installation. Even if you have the do-it-yourself background to install one, there will almost certainly be additional costs to install lines and wiring, easily doubling or tripling the price.
In This Article:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Type of Fuel
- Cost Estimator by Annual Operating Costs
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average Tankless Water Heater Costs in 2023
| National Average Cost | $2,360 |
| Typical Price Range | $1,125 – $3,620 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $130 (single-point system without installation) |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $5,045 |
There is a great variance in the cost of tankless water heaters. The size of the unit will matter; a single-point unit obviously will cost less than a whole-house system. In addition, people are drawn to solar for its cleaner energy and long-term savings, though it is more expensive up front.
As you start your search, know that the typical price for a tankless water heater ranges from $1,125 to $3,620, including materials and installation.
Cost Estimator by Type of Fuel
The type of fuel that you use to provide the heat for a tankless water heater system will affect the price of the unit and its installation. Solar is growing in popularity with its cleaner, sustainable energy and lower operating costs, but it isn’t always available. In addition, some rural areas may have little choice but to use propane.
| Fuel Type | Costs with Installation |
| Electric | $560 – $1,700 |
| Propane | $640 – $2,420 |
| Natural gas | $760 – $2,520 |
| Oil | $800 – $3,000 |
| Solar | $1,360 – $4,920 |
Cost Estimator by Annual Operating Cost
| Annual Operating Cost | Cost |
| Electric | $165 – $360 |
| Natural gas | $190 – $400 |
| Solar | $100 – $175 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Lifespan
- Savings
- Solar
- Usage Patterns
- Installation Costs
- Number of Units
- Maintenance
- Tax Incentives
Lifespan
A tankless water heater is expected to last 20+ years, according to the Department of Energy.
A system with a tank is expected to last 10-15 years.
Savings
It saves most homes about $100 per year over a storage system, though the total cost of a tankless water heater can be much greater.
Solar
Using solar to heat the water in a tankless system produces an average of $274.46 in annual savings.
Usage Patterns
Cost is affected by these usage patterns of the average household in America:
- Use 64 gallons of water a day
- Spend $400 to $600 each year heating water
- Find that 14% to 18% of its utility bills go to water heating
For households that are outside the normal range of hot water use (64 gallons per day):
- Homes that use a little water, say 41 gallons or less of hot water a day will be 24% to 34% more energy efficient using a tankless system.
- Homes that use a lot of water, say 86 gallons or more a day, can be 8% to 14% more energy efficient with a tankless system.
Installation Costs
Installation costs may increase over such additional expenses as a need to replace existing lines or to install more venting hoods or electrical circuit-breakers.
Number of Units
A second tankless water heater may be needed to provide all the hot water needed on-demand at multiple sites (say if you want to run a shower, dishwasher, faucet, and washing machine at the same time).
If you have features that call for warm water (think hot tub), you likely will want to include a tankless unit just for it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is important to homeowners, especially if you want the energy savings that come from managing energy costs. The owner’s manual will have specific maintenance guidelines for electric models, gas tankless water heaters, and solar devices. Even a new tankless water heater should be monitored.
A LawnStarter analysis found that regular maintenance is cost-effective. LawnStarter found that the national average cost of minor plumbing repairs is $158 to $417.
If you have hard water, ask your plumber how this might affect your system. Hard water can lead to a build up that clogs the pipes, and sometimes the heat exchanger.
Pro Tip: Not all plumbers/technicians are familiar with tankless water units, so they may be learning on the job when they work on your system. You may have to pay a higher fee to a technician trained in tankless water heaters.
Tax Incentives
Tankless water heaters qualify for a tax rebate, according to the IRS:
- 26% rebate if installed before January 1, 2023.
- 22% rebate if installed after that and before January 1, 2024.
The rebate does not apply to rentals, but does apply to a primary residence, second home, and new construction.
States and cities/towns have programs, too. A good place to find ones that apply to you is to use the Energy Star rebate list or the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) that is maintained by North Carolina State University.
Related Services
- Hot Tubs
- Water Damage Restoration
- Solar Panels
- Pools
Hot Tubs
Since you’ve got the plumber on-site, why not get a quote on the cost to install a hot tub? A hot tub can draw water from a tankless water heater, with the unit being part of the national average price of $6,900, a LawnStarter survey found.
Water Damage Restoration
Water damage restoration can still be needed, even though there is no storage tank of water to leak. Pipes carry in the water and they can break apart, creating water damage. Fortunately the water that leaks should be Category 1, making the cleanup cost to be $2.90 to $4.10 per square foot.
Solar Panels
Solar panels can provide the energy to heat the water in a tankless system. Expect to need three panels. While the national average cost for a solar panel system is $20,000, the cost of single panels is $150 to $550 apiece.
Pools
Pools can be heated with a tankless system. It should be set up to keep the water in the 70 degree F range. Electric, gas, or propane systems will work. A LawnStarter analysis presents the factors that impact pool heater costs, which typically range from $1,700 to $4,300.
Cost by Location
Photo Credit: EPA
Tankless water heaters work efficiently in cold climates, such as Canada and the northern U.S., according to a report published by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, an international association of 6,000 members.
The report also found:
- Gas heats water faster and more efficiently than electric, making it the better choice in cold climates.
- Gas can heat water in a tankless system even with low groundwater temps, as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep in mind that in colder parts of the country, the groundwater will need more energy to warm it, raising the operating cost.
In cold climates, you want to be sure to have warm water, so you shouldn’t economize on the size of the tankless water heater. A tankless water heater with a capacity of 2 gallons per minute will cost less, but you will want to be sure to get one with a capacity at least three times that size, if not more.
In rural areas, natural gas may not be available. These places often use propane to provide heat, so it is available to use with your tankless water heater.
FAQs
Can a Tankless System Be Installed as a DIY Project?
Tankless water heater installation is best left in the hands of a professional, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The agency points out that proper installation depends on:
● Fuel type. Natural gas, propane, oil, solar, and electric tankless water heaters are the types of tankless water heaters that are available.
● Climate.
It especially matters when it comes to the temperature of the water that has to be heated.
● Building codes. They vary by location.
● Safety issues, especially when it comes to gas lines and other gas devices. Experienced plumbers will know when and how to install wider venting pipes, for example.
If you believe you have the DIY skills to take on the challenge:
● Consult the manufacturer. Be sure to get and review the manuals for installation. Review the warranty.
● Expect to need a permit. Be sure to obtain one before you start.
● Review local water heater installation codes (which should be done upfront and is usually part of the permit process).
Are You Sure to Save Money?
When you live in a home with a traditional tank water heater system, you know you might run out of hot water (something that has happened to just about everyone, hasn’t it?), so you make efficient use of your time in the shower.
But when you can’t run out of hot water, people often linger in the shower. Those longer showers can eat into the savings you expected by going tankless.
A family of four is likely to use 9 kWh or $1.35 of electricity per day. If the amount of time in the shower triples per person, that number could easily double. Over the course of the year, the household would lose the financial benefit of using a tankless water heater.
Do Tankless Water Heaters Require Vents?
Tankless hot water heaters expel hot gas, so they need special venting to the outside.
What Is the Payback Time?
If you pay the national average cost to switch from a tank system to a tankless one, your costs in making the switch will zero out, but it will take time.
Using the recent cost of natural gas or electric energy for the home, the payback time breaks down to:
● Gas, 24 to 30 years (at the national average price of $12.
18 per 1,000 cubic feet).
● Electric, 14 to 24 years (at the national average price of 0.165 per KWh).
How Often Does a Tankless System Need to Be Flushed?
Manufacturers recommend that you flush a tankless water heater yearly. It certainly makes sense to have an annual maintenance review, and to make the venting a part of that. In places that have especially hard water, you might want to vent twice a year in order to keep the flow rate up.
What Is the Effect on Winterizing?
Getting your tankless hot water heater ready for winter takes seconds compared to conventional tanks that take a long time to drain.
A Call to Action
If you own a home, you should attempt to operate it in ways that are efficient both financially and operationally. Installing a tankless water system is both. Review the choices, and contact a local plumbing company for help to decide on the one that is the best fit for you.
Additional source: Georgia Consumer Protection Division
Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image Credit: J. Peter Eisenschenk / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Ted Rodgers
Ted Rodgers has been an editor and writer throughout a career that began way before he had gray in his hair. His knowledge of lawns and gardens is hard-earned, as he battles funguses that kill his lawn, ants that want to make his kitchen their own, and woodpeckers who seem to enjoy waking him in the morning.
Posts by Ted Rodgers
How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost in 2023?
Considering making the switch to a tankless water heater? Here, we’ll discuss the average tankless water heater cost.
📌 Tankless water heaters cost $250 to upwards of $5,000, depending on the type of heater, your local cost of living, the unit size, the brand, and the unit’s energy efficiency.
In this guide, we’ve broken down:
- The cost of various types of tankless water heaters
- The cost to install a tankless water heater
- The annual maintenance costs of a tankless water heater
- The cost of a tankless vs traditional water heater
- The pros and cons of tankless water heating units
By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently decide whether or not a tankless water heater is worth the investment based on your circumstances.
Table of Contents
- 💸 How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost?
- 📝 Factors Affecting the Cost of a Tankless Water Heater
- 🧾 Cost of Tankless Water Heaters by System Type
- 🔧 Average Cost to Install a Tankless Water Heater
- 📉 Average Annual Tankless Water Heater Operating Costs
- 🧰 Average Annual Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Costs
- 🆚 Tankless Water Heaters vs Traditional Water Heaters
- ⚖️ Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
- 👨⚖️ Are Tankless Water Heaters Worth It?
- ❔ Tankless Water Heater Cost: FAQ
💸 How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost?
On average, the cost of a tankless water heater is $250-$5,000. The national average price of a tankless water heater is $2,200.
Some tankless heaters cost upwards of $5,000 if they have special features or an exceptionally energy-efficient performance (such as condensing tankless water heaters).
📝 Factors Affecting the Cost of a Tankless Water Heater
Let’s look in more detail at the factors that affect the cost of a tankless water heater.
System Type
There are two popular types of tankless water heater: electric heaters and gas heaters.
An electric tankless water heater is generally cheaper than a gas tankless heater. Both types of heaters have their own unique advantages.
We’ve shared more information on tankless water heater costs based on system type later in this article.
System Fuel Type and Water Flow
There are various ways to fuel a tankless water heater, including with electricity, propane, natural gas, oil, solar power, or a combination of electricity and propane/natural gas.
📌 You might prefer to use the same fuel source for your water heater as for your home’s heat. Solar-powered tankless water heaters offer the lowest-cost performance but as the most expensive to install.
Tankless water heaters have varying flow rates depending on their size and capacity. Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute, or GPM. Most brands offer multiple flow rates for households of different sizes.
Related: What size tankless water heater do I need?
Whole Home Vs Point of Use
Whole home tankless water heaters are installed close to your water’s point of entry into your home.
These systems supply hot water for multiple bathrooms and appliances, even during times of peak water usage. There are different-sized whole home units, most providing 5-10 GPM of hot water. The average cost of a whole home tankless water heater is $450-$1,500.
Point of use tankless water heaters are installed up to 50 feet away from an appliance that requires hot water, such as a shower or a faucet. These units are efficient and easy to install, and produce 0.5-2 GPM of hot water.
The average cost of a point of use tankless water heater is between $100 and $300. You may need multiple point of use heaters if you have multiple appliances that require hot water.
System Size
The size of a tankless water heater ties into its use point and its water flow.
The bigger a system, the faster its water delivery and the more materials it’s made from. This increases the cost of the unit.
You’ll generally need to spend more on using and maintaining a large tankless water heater because it’s designed to deliver a faster flow of water to a home with multiple bathrooms and appliances.
| System Size | Cost |
|---|---|
| Whole-home | $400–$2,000 |
| Point-of-use | $180–$500 |
| 1–2 GPM | $180–$250 |
| 2–3 GPM | $250–$600 |
| 3–4 GPM | $330–$700 |
| 5–6 GPM | $450–$1,200 |
| 7–8 GPM | $530–$1,500 |
| >8 GPM | $650–$2,000 |
Removal of Existing Heating System
If you plan to replace your existing water heater with a tankless heater, you’ll need to factor in the cost of getting your current heater removed.
The cost of removing and replacing an existing water heater depends on your situation. On average, expect to spend $1,200-$5,000 for labor and parts.
Labor Costs
Most plumbers charge between $50 and $150 per hour to install a tankless water heater. The overall labor cost depends on the complexity of the job and the location.
Installing a tankless water heater takes up to eight hours, based on the fuel source and the heater type. Opening the walls and installing an access panel will add $100 to $300 onto the labor cost.
There are several materials that your local contractor will probably need to buy for the installation process:
| Materials | Cost |
|---|---|
| Lead-free brass valve | $50-$120 |
| Termination vent kit | $50-$100 |
| Gas connector kit | $20-$40 |
| Insulation and piping | $10/foot |
You may also need to secure a permit before your plumber can install your heater.
Ask your plumber if you’re unsure.
If the location you plan to install the water heater is difficult to access, your contractor will have to spend more time and effort on installation, increasing the overall upfront cost.
Brand
Some tankless water heater brands have a longer history of customer satisfaction and reliability than others. Expect to pay more for a tankless heater from a trusted brand than one from a new or unreliable brand.
Some of the most popular water heater brands for tankless units are Ecosmart, Rinnai, Bosch, Rheem, Noritz, Stiebel, and Camplux.
| Brands | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ecosmart | $180–$1,600 |
| Rinnai | $500–$2,350 |
| Bosch | $170–$2,400 |
| Rheem | $380–$2,000 |
| Noritz | $500–$2,600 |
| Stiebel | $150-$900 |
| Camplux | $230-$700 |
| AO Smith | $600–$1,500 |
| Bradford White | $500–$1,800 |
| Navien | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Takagi | $500–$2,000 |
| Westinghouse | $400–$2,000 |
🧾 Cost of Tankless Water Heaters by System Type
When choosing between tankless heaters, you’re most likely to come across gas heaters and electric heaters.
Commercial heaters are also available for large buildings.
| Tank Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Electric | $200-$600 |
| Gas | $500-$1,200 |
| Commercial | Price from local suppliers only |
| Solar | $1,700-$5,000 |
Electric Tankless Water Heater Prices
- The average price range for electric tankless heaters is $200-$600. These heaters typically have a power output of 11-36 kilowatts and a flow rate of 2-6 gallons per minute.
- Small point of use electric tankless water heaters are on the cheaper end, costing roughly $100-$200. These models require 120-240 volts to operate.
- Large whole home electric heater models cost $600 to $900, with a flow rate of around 6 GPM and a power output of 36 kilowatts.
Gas Tankless Water Heater Prices
- The average price range for gas tankless water heaters is $500-$1,200. These heaters typically produce 6-11 gallons of water per minute and have a 70,000-180,000 BTU (British thermal unit, a heating power measurement) range.
- The smallest point of use gas tankless heaters cost $100-$300 and have a BTU range of between 30,000 and 45,000. These produce up to 2 gallons of water per minute.
- The largest whole home tanjless gas heaters for residential use provide 10-11 GPM of water and have a BTU range of around 99,000 on average. These systems cost $1,200-$2,000 on average.
These heaters typically produce 6-11 gallons of water per minute and have a 70,000-180,000 BTU (British thermal unit, a heating power measurement) range.Commercial Tankless Water Heater Prices
Tankless water heaters for commercial use are often powered by natural gas. These heaters have a BTU range of 240,000 to 360,000 or higher, and cost tens of thousands of dollars upfront.
Estimating the cost of a tankless commercial water heater is pretty impossible, since different situations call for different products (and broadly varied budgets). Speak to several of your local suppliers to get an idea of the price range you’re looking at.
Solar Tankless Water Heater Prices
Tankless solar heaters use solar energy (from the sun) to heat water, so no electricity or gas is needed.
Most solar heaters cost $1,700-$5,000 on average to install. The average maximum cost for this heater is $13,000, making it the most expensive upfront option for both residential and commercial use.
However, the cost of running this type of tankless heating unit is significantly lower than any other tankless unit. You can cut down on your heating expenses by 50-80% by using a solar-powered water heater. Plus, this type of heating unit operates quietly and is easy to maintain. The downside? Repairs tend to be costly.
🔧 Average Cost to Install a Tankless Water Heater
The average labor cost to install a tankless heating system is $350-$2,000, depending on the type of heater and the complexity of installation required.
📌 Electric tankless water heaters are quicker and easier to install than gas heaters because they don’t need ventilation.
In some cases, however, you may end up spending more than expected on an electric tankless heater – such as if you need to upgrade your current electrical setup to meet your new heater’s requirements.
The cost of installing a tankless heater is also determined by whether or not you need to remove and replace your old heater. If so, your plumber will charge for the time it takes to rip out your existing heater and dispose of it properly.
Timing is a big factor when it comes to your overall expected labor cost. Also consider:
- What parts, accessories, tools, and equipment are needed for the job, and how much these cost
- Whether or not your town or city requires permits for new heater installations, and how much these cost
- The labor warranty provided by the contractor, and the length and scope of this warranty
Let’s take a look at some example scenarios for the cost of installing an electric vs a gas tankless water heater.
Electric Water Heater Installation Cost
| Type of Installation | Time Spent | Materials Used | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete install | 2-5 hours | Piping, fittings, valves, mounting hardware | $250-$800 |
| Replacing old unit | 1-3 hours | Valves, fittings, mounting hardware | $125-$250 |
Other electric tankless water heater costs to consider are the cost of installing an outlet and wiring it back to the electric panel, and the cost of rewiring your home prior to installation.
Gas Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost
| Type of Installation | Time Spent | Materials Used | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete install | 8-10 hours | Piping, fittings, valves, mounting hardware | $1,000-$1,800 |
| Replacing old unit | 3-4 hours | Valves, fittings, mounting hardware, gas kit | $200-$800 |
| Additional: Gas line | $500-1,000 |
Additional costs to consider for installing a tankless gas heater are the cost of a new venting system, the cost to remove and dispose of the old heater, and the cost of upgrading to a larger pipe diameter.
📉 Average Annual Tankless Water Heater Operating Costs
The main long-term cost to run a gas or electric heater is the ongoing cost of fuel.
Electric heaters are about 30% more affordable to run than tankless gas units. Exact prices depend on the cost of living in your local area.
In all cases, your cost to run a tankless hot water heater is determined by how much hot water you use.
Another factor affecting your ongoing costs is your feed and output water temperature. You can’t do much about having cold inlet water, but you can reduce your heater’s work by adjusting your maximum output hot water temperature to your ideal level of warmth.
Let’s take a look in more detail at the running cost of a tankless electric heater vs gas heater.
Cost of Electricity
The average annual cost of operating an electric tankless water heater is $100-$300. If your system is particularly energy efficient, you may spend less than $100/year.
Some inefficient systems will set you back more than $300 annually.
Cost of Natural Gas and Propane
Operating a tankless water heater that uses natural gas or propane is typically more expensive – depending on your water usage. The annual cost of operating a tankless gas water heater is $200-$500. The efficiency of the system only minorly effects the amount of gas used in the system.
📌 To keep costs as low as possible, choose natural gas if your home is already hooked up to a utility supply line. Otherwise, consider propane, which has a higher BTU and is more efficient. You’ll need to purchase propane independently, however. The cost of propane and natural gas varies based on your region.
| Fuel | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | $8-$25 | $100-$300 |
| Natural gas | $17-$42 | $200-$500 |
| Propane | $30-$40 | $350–$480 |
| Solar | $8-$15 | $90–$180 |
🧰 Average Annual Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Costs
Alongside operating costs, on-demand water heaters also have recurring maintenance costs.
Routine maintenance is essential in a point of use or whole house tankless water heater to keep the unit in good working order.
Even a brand-new tankless water heater will need regular maintenance. In fact, the sooner you can start with regular maintenance tasks, the better you’ll be able to maintain the quality and integrity of your unit.
The most important maintenance job is descaling and flushing the heating elements. Most plumbers recommend this once every 12 months, depending on your water usage and water hardness. You can bypass the need for descaling entirely if you have a whole home water softener installed upstream of your heater.
👉 Check out these top recommended water softening systems to protect your heater.
The average cost of a 1-2 hour maintenance job is $50-$200, depending on your plumber’s rates.
Alternatively, you can descale your heater yourself with a descaling kit, costing about $130 online.
🆚 Tankless Water Heaters vs Traditional Water Heaters
Wondering what kind of savings you can expect from a tankless unit compared to a traditional water heater?
As we mentioned earlier in this guide, a hot water heater without a tank is expensive. However, it’s still cheaper to install this type of heater than a heater with a water storage tank.
Because there are so many factors affecting the performance of both tankless and tank-based hot water heaters, we can only estimate the difference in long-term costs between the two.
📌 Generally, tankless units are more affordable to run due to their greatly minimized standby losses. Storage tank systems need to constantly keep water hot, which means the heater must work harder, for longer, increasing your energy bills.
On average, on-demand water heaters are about one-third more efficient than tank-based heaters. The exact figure depends on your daily hot water usage.
⚖️ Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of a tankless water heating system.
Pros:
- They offer a more energy-efficient performance compared to traditional gas or electric water heaters. Tankless units don’t store hot water, so they don’t waste energy from being on standby. This helps you to save around 30% on your energy bills.
- You have a constant supply of water with this type of system. When you turn on your faucet, water flows through the heating elements and is warmed instantly. You won’t ever have to wait for a full tank of water to be heated.
- These heaters are safer and easier to use in cold weather. Traditional units require far more prep for the winter.
- There are no bulky tanks to install, so tankless units are best for apartments or homes with limited space. You no longer need an entire cupboard dedicated to your heater.
- You can enjoy a tankless system for up to 20 years, while traditional tank-based systems last for 15 years, max.
You no longer need an entire cupboard dedicated to your heater.Cons:
- Making the switch to a tankless system is expensive. You probably won’t feel the financial benefits of the system for a few years after installation.
- Slow-flowing water doesn’t bode well for this type of heater. You may need to install a pressure booster if your water flow is slower than average.
- Tankless systems have a limited maximum flow delivery. Even the largest systems can only provide around 6 GPM (gallons per minute) of hot water.
👨⚖️ Are Tankless Water Heaters Worth It?
So, are tankless units worth the expense?
To answer this question, you need to think about your current spend on hot water, and work out an estimate of how much you could save by installing a tankless unit.
On average, a family of four using a lot of water (80-100 gallons) can expect to save between 5 and 15% on the current energy bill.
If your family uses less water (55-70 gallons), you can save up to 35% on your annual water heating bill.
📌 For most people, a tankless on-demand heater is worth the investment. A high-quality heater should last you two decades, so you’ll get plenty of use out of your investment – and save money along the way.
Some states and utilities offer tankless water heater rebates as an incentive to improve your energy efficiency. Check before you buy! These rebates can help you save money, so they’re well worth looking into.
Looking for an efficient tankless water heater? Here are our Top 3 Recommended Brands 👇
👉 Want to see more options? Check out all the best tankless water heater options in 2023!
❔ Tankless Water Heater Cost: FAQ
How much does it cost to put in a tankless water heater?
The average cost of putting in a tankless water heater is $250 to $500.
The size and type of heater, the heater’s use point, your local cost of living, the system fuel type, and your unique needs will all affect the cost of installing a tankless unit.
What is the downside of a tankless water heater?
The biggest downside of a tankless water heater is its expensive upfront cost. On average, buying and installing a tankless water heater costs about three times the price of a traditional tank-based water heater.
Is a tankless water heater worth the cost?
Yes. Due to their high energy efficiency, tankless water heaters are worth the cost – and they provide up to $100 in annual savings compared to traditional water heaters. If you don’t use a lot of hot water in general, your heater should provide a performance that’s up to 35% more efficient than tank-based heaters.
How much does it cost to replace a hot water heater with a tankless?
The average cost of replacing a hot water heater with a tankless heater is $1,200-$5,000.
The exact cost depends on the labor costs of your local contractors, the size and type of tankless heater installed, and the complexity of the job.
How long do tankless water heaters last?
Depending on the quality of the components and the brand, the average lifespan of a tankless water heater is 15-20 years. You may be able to extend your heater’s lifespan beyond 20 years by replacing the parts when they become worn.
Can I install a tankless water heater myself?
Yes. If you’re an experienced DIY-er, you can install a tankless electric water heater yourself. Ideally, seek advice from a professional plumber before you get started, who can discuss your options and tell you the best type and size of heater for your needs. Don’t install your own gas or propane tankless water heater. This is a dangerous job that requires an experienced professional. In all situations, make sure you’re aware of your local regulations, which may require a licensed plumber to install your new tankless water heater for you.
Do tankless water heaters use a lot of electricity?
Yes, tankless water heaters require a lot of electricity – but they don’t run all the time, so electricity is only used when you turn on your hot water faucet. The average tankless heater uses around 30,000 watts of electricity when it’s switched on. To put this into perspective, a washing machine needs only about 1,000 watts to run for over an hour. But you’ll still save energy with a tankless water heater because it only switches on when needed.
Non-pressure storage water heaters: electric boilers, for summer cottages
The simplest version of a storage water heater is a mounted water tank. The sun heats the water, and by the evening you can already use warm water for any purpose and need. Due to gravity, water flows down the hose to the place you need.
Non-pressure storage water heaters are in most cases needed for systems where water is supplied by pumps as it is turned on.
Water supply in such cases is carried out either automatically or manually.
Features
This type of water heater is difficult to withstand even a slight pressure in the water supply. Since the bulb inside is made of polypropylene and the water heater is used only with a mixer and tap. With the help of them, water is blocked at the inlet and outlet of the tank. Excess water is discharged through the drain.
Pluses
- you will always have hot water in your house: at any time of the day or night;
- high efficiency and low cost of electricity;
- overheating protection;
- no heat loss;
- relative durability due to tank material;
- relatively low price point;
- installation does not require special knowledge;
- water heater is manufactured using modern technology;
- high manufacturer’s warranty;
- high selection assortment.
Cons
- limited use of the water heater;
- above atmospheric pressure not applicable;
- there is no connection to the water supply system;
- water level control;
- volatility;
- low power.
Device
The simplest device of this type of water heater promotes the product for use in the kitchen or shower. In fact, this is an open tank where water accumulates. The design has a valve that opens the flow of water, as air pressure is created.
Why are they often used in dachas?
Non-pressurized water supply is an outdated and inconvenient way to use the water supply system. However, for dachas – this is the best option.
If summer residents do not want to use normal water supply or simply appear on their household plots only during the season, then the use of such a system for them greatly simplifies the entire stage of using water.
Selection Tips
If you decide to buy a water heater, think about why you need it. If you will use the device only when washing dishes or hands, then a water heater with a small tank volume of 5-15 liters is enough for you. If you want to take a shower, then at least 30-50 liters, but if you want to take a bath, then – 80.
If the question of installing a pressureless water heater remains open, we suggest watching the following video, which will show when it is more convenient to use such a device and why.
CLAGE S 5-O – non-pressure storage water heater with a capacity of 5 liters with a temperature controller
The CLAGE S 5-O water heater is a non-pressure storage model with a small tank of 5 liters and is designed to work only with special faucets that support the connection of non-pressure water heaters. The device has a lower location of the connections and is only suitable for dispensing water at one point of consumption, located above the mixer. The thermal insulation layer reduces heat loss by keeping the water in the tank warm for a long time. The rotary control placed on the front panel changes the heating temperature with fixation in three positions, and also allows you to activate frost protection.
The device is connected to a 220 V household network using a standard plug.
Key Features
- Tank volume 5 liters.
- Small size.
- Quantity of mixed water approx. 9 liters.
- Effective thermal insulation.
- Connection to a single-phase network.
- Smooth change within +35°C…+85°C.
- Temperature fixation in three positions.
- Frost protection.
- Overtemperature protection.
- Heating indication.
- Enable indication.
- Mounting plates included.
- Bottom connection.
- Protection IP24.
Principle of operation
The CLAGE S 5-O non-pressure storage water heater is designed to distribute hot water to only one point of consumption and is installed exclusively with special mixers so that the water pressure does not enter the storage tank. Polypropylene is used as a material in the manufacture of the container, which can withstand high temperatures and does not react with water.
The heating element is enclosed in a fluoroplastic bulb, and due to the fact that water does not come into contact with metal parts, there is no need to install a protective anode in the model, and the device itself can be used with hard water.
When filling the tank, the heating of the liquid is turned on so that the user can immediately use hot water at the moment the tap is turned on. After heating, the current temperature is maintained for a long time, since the storage tank is coated on the outside with effective thermal insulation, which is made from recycled materials.
The controls are a rotary knob that can be used to adjust the heating temperature between +35°C and +85°C. In three positions at +38°C, +55°C and +65°C, it is possible to fix the regulator due to special grooves on the rotary disk. The indicator next to the knob indicates that the device is on.
The CLAGE S 5-O water heater has an anti-freeze protection, which is switched on by means of the regulator when set at the snowflake mark.
In this mode, the device will automatically maintain the temperature of the water inside the tank at +7°C to prevent freezing of the liquid when the ambient temperature drops below zero. In addition, the model is equipped with overheat protection, which boils down to the fact that in case of an emergency, when the temperature rises and, having reached the maximum allowable level, the heating element turns off.
Appearance
The storage water heater CLAGE S 5-O has a small size due to the small tank and is compactly placed on the wall in a vertical position. The body is painted white, and the bevels and decorative lines add sophistication to the appearance of the device, allowing it to fit into any bathroom or kitchen interior. A bevel is made in the lower front part, on which a rotary regulator and a light indicator of operation are installed. In the lower part of the body there are branch pipes for connecting to the mixer.
Still have questions?
Familiarize yourself with:
Installation rules Calculation tables
Selection guide
Or call us, we will prompt and help.
wall mount
The CLAGE S 5-O water heater can only be installed in a vertical position with a bottom connection, i.e. above the mixer. A template and mounting brackets are included for easy wall mounting. First, the template is applied to the wall, where the holes are marked. After that, with the help of fasteners, two horizontal mounting strips are installed on the wall, and the water heater itself is hung on them.
Electrical connection
The device is powered by a household single-phase network with a voltage of 220V, and switching is carried out using a plug inserted into the socket. When connected, the device must be grounded for safety reasons. The maximum power consumed during heating reaches 2 kW, so use the wiring from the outlet to the machine of the required section. It is forbidden to connect the model to the network with an empty storage tank.
Water connection
Since CLAGE S 5-O is a non-pressure device, it must not be plugged into the water mains.
For connection, it is required to use special mixers, from which water is supplied to the water heater. Connection to pipes is made through half-inch connectors.
Have the installation work carried out by a qualified person, that all connection steps have been carried out in accordance with the requirements set out in the instructions and in compliance with safety regulations.
This section provides recommendations and general conditions for connection and installation of equipment. Before carrying out work, you must read the instructions and study the safety requirements. We advise you to entrust all connection and installation work to qualified specialists!
Order installation
Useful information:
Instructions Calculation guide
Call us, we will prompt and help.
Tank volume, l
5
Supply voltage, V
220 (single-phase)
Power, kW
2
Installation
vertical
bottom
Mounting method
wall
Tank lining
plastic
Heating element
Heating element
Temperature controller
yes
Min.
water heating temperature, °C
35
Max. water heating temperature, °C
85
Control
electronic
Water supply method
non-pressure
Rapid heating
no
Antifreeze function 90 003
yes
Heating temperature limiter
yes
Safety group included
no
Thermometer
no
Display
no
Heating indicator
yes
Switch on indicator
yes
Night heating function
no
Connection (inch)
1/2
Protection class, IP
24
Energy efficiency class
A
Width, mm
256
Depth, mm mm
228
Weight, kg
3.5
Height, mm
376
Warranty, years
3
The history of CLAGE. Simple and efficient water supply.
- Instruction manual CLAGE S 5-O (German and English) (PDF)
- Safety Notes (PDF)
Calculation of water heating time in storage water heater
Enter:
Water heater volume, liters
Required outlet temperature, °С
Water heater power, kW
Result:
Heating time: 0
Approximate amount of water used
| Number of people | Water heater tank volume, l | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sink | Shower | Sink + shower | Sink + shower + bath | |
| 1 | 10 | 30 | 50 | 100 |
| 2 | 15 | 50 | 80 | 120 |
| 3 | 20 | 80 | 100 | 150 |
| 4 | 30 | 100 | 120 | 200 |
| 5-6 | 30 | 120 | 150 | 300 |
| 7-8 | 50 | 150 | 200 | 300 |
Recommended electrical cable size
Copper, three-core cable (220 Volts)
| Power, kW | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3. 5 |
4 | 6 | 8 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amp | 4.5 | 9.1 | 13.6 | 15.9 | 18.2 | 27.3 | 36.4 | 54.5 |
| Cable core cross-section, mm² | 1 | 1 | 1.5 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 4 | 6 | 10 |
| Maximum length, meters | 35 | 17 | 17 | 25 | 22 | 23 | 27 | 30 |
Copper, four or five core cable (380 Volts)
| Power, kW | 6 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 21 | 24 | 27 | 35 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amp | 9. 1 |
19.5 | 22.8 | 27.3 | 31.9 | 36.5 | 41 | 53.2 |
| Cable core cross-section, mm² | 1.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
| Maximum length, meters | 50 | 52 | 48 | 40 | 51 | 45 | 53 | 41 |
Explanation of IP protection classes
First digit of the IP code (value)
| Meaning | Protection against objects with a diameter (mm) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | – | No protection |
| 1 | Over 50 | No protection against conscious contact, protection against bodies with a large surface |
| 2 | Over 12. 5 |
Protection against fingers and similar objects |
| 3 | Over 2.5 | Protection against ingress of cables, tools, etc. |
| 4 | More than 1 | Protection against wires, fasteners and other similar objects |
| 5 | Dustproof | Protection against external contacts. A small amount of dust is allowed to enter without affecting performance. |
| 6 | Dust tight | Protection against external contacts and dust ingress. |
Second digit of IP code (value)
| Meaning | Protects against | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | – | No protection |
| 1 | Vertical drop | Water falling vertically does not affect equipment operation |
| 2 | Vertical Drop 15° | Water falling vertically at an angle of up to 15° does not affect the operation of the equipment |
| 3 | Spray Drop | Rain protection for water falling vertically up to 60° does not affect the operation of the equipment |
| 4 | Spray in any trajectory | Splash from any angle does not affect equipment operation |
| 5 | Water jets | Water jets from any angle do not affect the operation of the equipment |
| 6 | Powerful water jets | Strong water jets from any angle will not affect the operation of the equipment |
***If there is no number indicating the value of the object hit, “X” is used instead, for example – IP X4.
This section contains theoretical (approximate) calculated data, actual indicators or parameters of devices and equipment may differ in different operating conditions. For more accurate information, please consult a specialist.
Useful information:
Instructions Description
Call us, we will prompt and help.
Typ 34-1/2
RUB 4,000
What is the difference between pressure and non-pressure storage water heaters CLAGE?
The pressurized water heater is constantly under pressure from the water mains and is designed to provide hot water to several points of consumption.
Non-pressure water heater is connected through a special mixer to only one point of consumption and is not pressurized by the water main.
What heating element is used in storage water heaters?
CLAGE storage appliances are equipped with a copper heating element, which, as a rule, operates with a heating power of about 2 kW in a single-phase network.
Are storage water heaters equipped with a temperature controller?
Yes. All CLAGE models have adjustable heating temperature.
What temperature is recommended?
The optimum level is +60°C. For example, at this temperature, a 50 liter tank produces approximately 100 liters of mixed comfort water, which is enough for several family members to shower without having to wait for reheating.
What is the peculiarity of storage water heaters with a copper tank?
They are not subject to corrosion when in water, as a result of which storage water heaters with such a tank and a copper heating element do not need to install a magnesium anode.
Where are storage water heaters manufactured?
CLAGE storage water heaters are located in two countries.
The S50, S80 and S100 models are produced in Italy, while the rest of the models are manufactured at the German plant.
What is the warranty for storage water heaters?
All storage water heaters are guaranteed for 3 years. The warranty covers the tanks as follows:
- 10 years for S10 and S15 tanks.
- 7 years for tanks of other models.
Do I need to purchase a security group?
Yes. For all model ranges of storage water heaters, except for CLAGE SX, an additional purchase of a safety group is required.
What is a security group for?
This is a special device that includes two valves that perform the functions of maintaining the normal operation of the equipment.
The non-return valve prevents the hot water from flowing out of the tank into the cold line when the pressure in the tank exceeds the pressure in the pipe when the liquid is heated.