How tankless differs

A tankless heater heats water only as it flows through a heat exchanger. Instead of a stored supply that eventually runs out, you get a steady flow limited by how many gallons per minute the unit can heat at once. Run two showers and a dishwasher together and a small unit may not keep up, even though it never runs dry in the way a tank does.

Gas tankless units burn far more gas at full output than a typical tank burner, so the gas line that fed the old tank is often too small. They also need their own venting, a dedicated electrical outlet for controls and, on condensing models, a drain for acidic condensate.

Tank or tankless

Storage tank

  • Simplest like-for-like swap in most Brea garages
  • Hot water limited by tank size and recovery
  • Sediment settles in the tank and needs flushing
  • Takes floor space and must be strapped
  • Fewer installation changes when replaced

Tankless

  • Continuous hot water up to its flow rate
  • Often needs a larger gas line and new venting
  • Scale builds in the heat exchanger and needs descaling
  • Wall-mounted, frees floor space
  • Error codes and electronics need a qualified technician

What a tankless install usually involves

Is tankless right for this house?

  • IfYou run out of hot water with a correctly working tankThenTankless or a larger tank may help. Ask for both sized to your household.
  • IfThe gas line would need major upsizingThenWeigh that cost and disruption against a high-efficiency tank or a heat pump unit.
  • IfFloor space in the garage mattersThenA wall-mounted tankless unit can free space, if venting can be routed.
  • IfYou do not want routine maintenanceThenA tank may suit better, though tanks also benefit from flushing.

Questions to ask before you commit

  1. What flow rate will this unit deliver at our incoming water temperature?
  2. Does my gas line need to be upsized, and does that include the meter connection?
  3. Where will the vent exit, and does it meet clearance rules?
  4. What maintenance does the manufacturer require to keep the warranty valid?
  5. Will you install isolation valves for descaling?

Common questions

Do tankless water heaters need maintenance in Brea?

Yes. With hard water, scale builds in the heat exchanger, so periodic descaling is part of ownership. Follow the manufacturer's schedule.

Why does my tankless heater give a burst of cold water?

Short gaps between uses can send a slug of cold water through while the unit restarts. Low flow below the activation rate and scale buildup can also cause temperature swings.

Can my existing gas line run a tankless heater?

Often it cannot without upsizing, because tankless units draw much more gas at full fire. A plumber should calculate the load on the whole gas system before quoting.

General information for Brea, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.