If you’re looking into installing a tankless water heater in your home, one of the key factors you’ll want to consider is how much electricity it uses compared to a conventional storage tank water heater.
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand without needing to store hot water in a tank, but running all that heating on demand does require extra electricity.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: On average, a tankless electric water heater uses around 4500-5500 watt-hours (Wh) of electricity per day for a family of four. This amounts to about $40-60 per month in electricity costs.
What Makes Tankless Water Heaters Use More Electricity
While tankless water heaters are known for their energy efficiency and cost savings, they do use electricity to operate. Understanding the factors that contribute to their electricity consumption can help homeowners make informed decisions about their energy usage.
Here are two key factors that make tankless water heaters use more electricity:
Continuous Heating Elements
Unlike traditional water heaters that store and heat a large volume of water, tankless water heaters heat water on-demand. This means that the heating elements in a tankless water heater are constantly running to provide hot water whenever it is needed.
The continuous operation of these heating elements requires a consistent supply of electricity, resulting in higher energy consumption compared to storage tank water heaters. However, it is important to note that tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient overall, as they only heat water when it is required.
Power Modulation
Another factor that contributes to the electricity usage of tankless water heaters is power modulation. Tankless water heaters are designed to adjust their power output based on the demand for hot water.
This means that when less hot water is needed, the tankless water heater will use less electricity to heat the water. However, during times of high demand, such as when multiple faucets are being used simultaneously, the tankless water heater will increase its power output to meet the demand.
This modulation of power helps to ensure a constant supply of hot water but can result in higher electricity usage during peak usage times.
It is worth mentioning that while tankless water heaters may use more electricity than traditional storage tank water heaters, their overall energy efficiency and cost savings are still significant. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be up to 34% more energy-efficient than storage tank water heaters.
Additionally, the lifespan of tankless water heaters is typically longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further contributing to energy savings in the long run.
Average Electricity Use of Tankless Water Heaters
Based on Gallons Used Per Day
The electricity consumption of a tankless water heater depends on several factors, including the number of gallons used per day. On average, a tankless water heater uses around 3-4 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity for every 1,000 gallons of water heated.
This estimate is based on a typical household usage pattern, where hot water is used for showers, dishwashing, and laundry. However, it’s important to note that actual electricity usage may vary depending on the specific model and brand of the tankless water heater.
Based on Power Rating
The power rating of a tankless water heater also plays a significant role in determining its electricity consumption. Tankless water heaters are available in different power ratings, typically ranging from 3 kilowatts (kW) to 15 kW.
The higher the power rating, the more electricity the water heater will consume. However, higher power ratings also mean faster heating and a greater capacity to deliver hot water on demand.
For example, a tankless water heater with a power rating of 8 kW may consume approximately 8 kilowatt-hours of electricity for every hour of operation. On the other hand, a tankless water heater with a higher power rating of 12 kW may consume around 12 kilowatt-hours per hour.
It’s important to consider your household’s hot water needs and usage patterns when selecting a tankless water heater with an appropriate power rating.
It’s worth noting that tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be up to 34% more energy-efficient, resulting in lower electricity bills over time.
For more detailed information on specific models and their electricity usage, it’s recommended to consult the manufacturer’s specifications or refer to authoritative websites such as Energy.gov or ENERGY STAR.
Estimating Your Electricity Costs
When it comes to tankless water heaters, one of the main concerns for homeowners is the electricity usage and how it affects their monthly bills. While tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient compared to traditional tank water heaters, it’s still important to estimate your electricity costs to make an informed decision.
Calculate Based on Your Usage
Estimating your electricity costs for a tankless water heater is relatively straightforward. Start by determining your average daily hot water usage. Consider the number of people in your household, their daily hot water needs, and any specific activities that may require more hot water, such as running a dishwasher or doing laundry.
Once you have your average daily hot water usage, you can use it to calculate your monthly electricity costs. The electricity consumption of a tankless water heater is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Multiply your average daily hot water usage by the electricity consumption per gallon or liter of hot water for the specific tankless water heater model you are considering. This will give you an estimate of your monthly electricity usage.
Pro tip: To find the electricity consumption per gallon or liter of hot water for a specific tankless water heater model, check the manufacturer’s specifications or visit their official website. They often provide detailed information about the energy efficiency and electricity usage of their products.
Compare to a Tank Water Heater
Comparing the electricity usage of a tankless water heater to a traditional tank water heater can help you understand the potential energy savings. Tank water heaters continuously heat and store a large volume of water, which means they consume electricity even when hot water is not being used.
On the other hand, tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed, resulting in lower energy consumption.
To put things into perspective, let’s consider an example. A typical tankless water heater may use around 3,000 to 4,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, while a traditional tank water heater with a capacity of 40 gallons can consume around 4,500 to 5,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year.
This means that a tankless water heater can potentially save you up to 20-30% in electricity costs compared to a tank water heater.
Fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be up to 34% more energy-efficient than tank water heaters.
Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as the efficiency of the specific models and your usage patterns. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional plumber or an energy specialist to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.
Factors That Affect Electricity Use
When it comes to tankless water heaters, there are several factors that can affect their electricity use. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your energy consumption and potentially save money on your utility bills.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that can impact the electricity usage of a tankless water heater.
Climate and Groundwater Temperature
The climate in which you live plays a significant role in how much electricity your tankless water heater will use. In colder climates, where the groundwater temperature is lower, the heater will have to work harder to heat the water to the desired temperature.
This increased workload can result in higher electricity consumption. On the other hand, in warmer climates, where the groundwater temperature is higher, the heater will require less energy to reach the same temperature.
According to a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be up to 34% more energy-efficient in warm climates compared to cold climates. So, if you live in a colder region, you might expect your tankless water heater to use more electricity than someone living in a warmer climate.
Number of People in Household
The number of people in your household can also impact the electricity use of your tankless water heater. The more people there are, the more demand there will be for hot water. This means that the heater will need to run more frequently to meet everyone’s needs, resulting in higher electricity consumption.
For example, a household with four people will generally require a larger tankless water heater than a household with only two people. This larger unit will need more energy to heat the increased volume of water required for showers, dishes, and laundry.
Shower Length and Flow Rate
The length of your showers and the flow rate of your showerhead can also affect how much electricity your tankless water heater uses. If you take long showers or have a showerhead with a high flow rate, the heater will need to work harder and consume more electricity to maintain a constant supply of hot water.
Consider installing low-flow showerheads or setting time limits for showers to minimize electricity usage. By doing so, you can reduce the amount of hot water required, leading to lower energy consumption and potentially saving money on your electricity bill.
It is important to note that the electricity use of a tankless water heater can vary depending on the specific model and its efficiency rating. To find accurate information about the electricity consumption of a particular tankless water heater, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s specifications or check reliable sources such as the U.S.
Tips to Reduce Electricity Use
Get an Appropriately Sized Heater
One of the most important factors in reducing electricity use with a tankless water heater is ensuring that you have the right size for your household. If your heater is too large, it will consume more electricity than necessary to heat the water.
On the other hand, if it is too small, it might struggle to meet the hot water demand, leading to higher energy consumption. To determine the appropriate size, consider factors like the number of bathrooms, the size of your family, and the peak demand for hot water.
Insulate Hot Water Pipes
Insulating your hot water pipes is a simple and effective way to reduce electricity use. By insulating the pipes, you can prevent heat loss as the water travels from the heater to the tap. This means that hot water will reach the faucet faster and stay hot for longer, reducing the need for the heater to continuously cycle on and off.
You can easily find pipe insulation materials at your local hardware store and install them yourself.
Lower the Thermostat Temperature
Another way to save electricity with a tankless water heater is to lower the thermostat temperature. Most heaters allow you to adjust the temperature settings, so you can set it to a lower temperature without compromising on comfort.
For example, reducing the thermostat by just a few degrees can lead to significant energy savings over time. However, it is important to find a balance between energy efficiency and meeting your hot water needs.
Implementing these tips can help you reduce electricity use with your tankless water heater, leading to lower energy bills and a positive impact on the environment. For more information on energy-efficient practices and products, you can visit websites like energy.gov or energystar.gov.
Conclusion
Tankless electric water heaters use more electricity than conventional tank heaters because they must actively heat water on demand instead of storing hot water. But the electricity costs are still reasonable, especially if you get an appropriately sized unit and use some electricity-saving tips.
Considering their convenience and efficiency, tankless heaters can still be a smart upgrade for many homes.
