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Everything You Need to Know Before Switching to Tankless

Apr 29, 2026
Everything You Need to Know Before Switching to Tankless

If you’ve ever run out of hot water mid-shower or watched your heating bills spiral out of control, you’ve probably thought about switching to a tankless water heater. These water heating systems come with several advantages that make them worth the investment. Today, the plumbers in Pittsburgh, PA at Neighborhood Plumbing walk you through everything you need to know before installing a tankless water heater.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand systems, heat water as it flows through the unit using powerful heating elements or gas burners. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through the system and is heated instantly. This means you won’t run out of hot water, even during long showers or when multiple fixtures are in use—provided the system is sized correctly.

Why Homeowners Are Switching to Tankless Water Heater

After installing and servicing tankless water heaters in countless properties, we’ve gathered feedback on the advantages and limitations of these units. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, making them a perfect choice for high-demand households where multiple fixtures run simultaneously.

By eliminating standby heat loss typical with storage water heaters, tankless water heaters cut down on energy use by 20% to 34% for homes using 41 gallons or less of hot water every day. For larger households with higher hot water consumption, they can save between 8% and 14% on energy use. If your heating bills are getting out of control, it may be time to call a nearby plumbing repair service to install a tankless water heater.

In addition, tankless water heaters last longer, free up valuable floor space, and eliminate flood risks. However, they also come with certain downsides, including:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Gas line upgrades often needed
  • Cold climate flow limitations
  • Cold water sandwich effect
  • Regular maintenance required

Consult with a trusted plumbing repair service if you need expertise guidance from someone who knows these units inside and out.

Gas vs. Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Gas tankless water heaters are a better choice for high-demand use due to faster heating and higher flow rates (10-11 GPM), though they cost more to install. Electric tankless water heaters come with a lower upfront cost, are more compact in size, and do not require venting. This makes them easier and cheaper to install. Electric units are recommended for smaller homes and apartments. A notable downside with electric tankless water heaters is that they cost more to run. If you need help with choosing between a gas vs. electric tankless water heater, seek help from a local plumber specializing in water heater services.

How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?

One of the most compelling reasons to switch to a tankless water heater is longevity. The average lifespan for tankless units ranges from 20-25 years because they do not store water, thereby eliminating constant corrosion and stress on a storage tank. Here are some of the steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your tankless water heater:

  • Install a water softener to eliminate hard water
  • Schedule routine maintenance
  • Hire a professional plumber for tankless water heater installation
  • Choose a premium brand that’s renowned for longevity
  • Schedule tankless water heater repair as soon as you notice a problem

Do You Need Tankless Water Heater Repair? Call Neighborhood Plumbing Today

If your tankless water heater is acting up, call the plumbers at Neighborhood Plumbing for tankless water heater repair. With over 10 years fixing faulty water heaters, you can count on our plumbers to find the root cause of the problem and restore proper functioning. Call us now to book an appointment!

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