Bob Pierce answers questions about energy efficiency, consumer products, and cooperative governance. He is Clearwater Power’s Chief Operating Officer and welcomes your questions on our Ask Bob page.
What are your views on tank water heaters vs. tankless on-demand water heaters and power use?
This really comes down to how the home is used. Tankless water heaters are efficient because there is no standby heat loss; they only heat water when hot water is needed. For vacation homes, cabins, or businesses that sit empty for extended periods, this can conserve a significant amount of energy and help lower costs.
However, you typically can’t simply swap out a tank water heater for a tankless unit. Installation often requires increased electrical capacity or access to a gas line. For members interested in on-demand water heating, we typically recommend propane-fired tankless units.
It’s also worth noting that tankless water heaters are sometimes called “endless” water heaters because they can provide hot water for as long as needed. So, efficiency isn’t the only factor to consider.
If infrastructure upgrades are a concern, a heat pump water heater may be a good option. These units are extremely efficient compared to standard tank water heaters, and we offer rebates for them as well.