Traditional Water Heaters
To better understand the various benefits of electric water heaters, it is helpful to review how a traditional model works. Traditional hot water heaters come with an 80 gallon tank, or larger depending on the property’s hot water needs. This tank holds heated water that is ready to use, instantly. Cold water enters through the bottom of the tank from the city’s main water supply, and it is heated to a preset temperature. It remains at this temperature at all times inside the tank.
Tankless On Demand Water Heaters
Just like traditional “tank-style” units, it is helpful to review how tankless water heaters work as well. These units do not come with a large-gallon tank, and instead, only heats water when it is requested for immediate use. This reduces standby-energy loss, making it a more efficient method of heating water. Now let’s take a look at the many advantages offered by tankless and tank-style electric water heaters!
Electric Water Heaters
Traditional Tank-Style:
Tank-style electric water heaters come with storage tanks between 20 and 80 gallons. They operate by using two separate heating elements, each with their own thermostat. The first heating element is positioned at the top of the storage tank. It is designed to recover more hot water in the case that more hot water is demanded. The second heating element is found at the bottom of the tank, and its job is to maintain the preset temperature setting. In contract to traditional, gas water heaters, electric units are incredibly efficient because the water is not being heated at all times.
Tankless On Demand:
If you are looking for even more energy efficiency, a tankless electric water heater is the right choice for your home. Water is only heated upon request, making these units extremely energy efficient. Here’s how they work: Cold water enters through the bottom of the unit where it is heated to a preset temperature, and then it is then sent through the hot water lines, directly up to the faucets. This process takes between 5 to 10 seconds from the time you turn on the water.