Electric tankless water heaters are the norm as far as home-based water heaters are concerned. They are efficient and affordable. They consume the least space when installed and there’s little to no maintenance required after they are installed. Furthermore, the installation procedure takes a very short time; around three hours. They have been around for a while and most people who prefer warm or hot water for various purposes know about their significance. Nonetheless, since they have been in the market for some time now, various companies have emerged, each with their own version. It may be tough to know which device to go for. In this definitive guide, you’ll find all the considerations necessary to enable you to make an informed decision about your particular situation when acquiring an electric tankless water heater.

Your Place

The first thing you should consider when intending to have a tankless water heater installed in your place. Due to their compact nature, these devices will consume the least space. In fact, of all water heating systems you are likely to come across, these are the best. I mean, compared to water heating units with tanks, and the gas systems, the tankless water heating units are the best; particularly when it comes to saving space.

So look at your place and your hot water needs. Electric tankless water heaters are categorized by the optimum temperature rise they can manage at a given flow rate. Hence, to determine the device that will best suit your condition, you’ll have to figure out the temperature rise and flow rate necessary for the device. Do you want to use it just in one location, like a bathroom or sink, or do you need something that will provide hot water for the entire house? Please, don’t be discouraged by this flow rate and temperature rise stuff. Not everyone is a nerd that they know every detail about everything that can be measured. If you can’t figure out the temperature rise or the flow rate necessary for your home, it’s ok, it’s fine. At least determine the places where you want hot water for, and with this in mind, consult with your vender, friends, or any relevant professional for guidance and advice on the best electric tankless water heater.

Features

Once you’ve determined where the electric tankless water heater will be needed in your home, the next thing you’ll want to consider are the features you’d like to be present in the unit you acquire. Some of the features you’ll want to go for are:

• The capability to adjust the temperature of the water, either warm or warmer
• Remember that these units come in various shapes and sizes. Most of them though are around the size of a medium briefcase.
• Something easy to operate. If it needs any certification to operate, it’s best to keep looking. The easier the unit will be to operate the less time it’ll waste for you.
• A cool feature is automated flow control for temperature adjustment. This will come in handy when all you want to do is get hot water and you don’t really care about the mathematics of water flow and temperature.
• Warranty is a must. A good company is one that believes in its products by providing a warranty for any unexpected anomalies. A good electric tankless water heater unit will last for more than 20 years. That’s more than long enough for anyone.
• Ultimately, safety is very important. Regardless of the fact that most electric tankless water heaters are normally very safe for your home, it’s best not to assume anything. Pay attention to any caution about the unit you acquire, and ensure all safety measures have been observed. It is still an electronic device, and when electricity is carelessly handled, it poses fire and electrocution risks. You want to take a hot shower; not to be fried.

Installation

This usually takes around three hours. I think I mentioned that somewhere before. There are so many of these devices out there, so you want to invest in something that is easy to install and that won’t waste any of your precious time when there are other better devices out there. Typically, the installation should be part of the deal when you are purchasing a unit. If this is not true and you are not in a position to DIY, you can hire a plumber with a good reputation, or a heating and A/C contractor to do the installation for you.

Budget

The all determining factor. Your budget is what will ultimately determine what you’ll purchase. The main reason an electric tankless water heater is recommended over other alternatives is the fact that it’ll save you money from all directions. It’s cheaper to purchase. It’s cheaper to install. It’s cheaper to operate. It’s cheaper to maintain. So consider all the previous points, and look for the unit that will best suit your situation at an affordable price. You can look at various electric tankless water heater reviews to see the brands that are dominating the market and get a little more expert advice. This will be a quick way of comparing the various brands available and determining which device will work for you.

I hope this article was as simple and straightforward as I intended it to be. If so, you’ll have no problem at all acquiring an electric tankless water heater for your home, even if it’s your first time.