Today’s homeowners should consider the risks and dangers of tankless water heaters. This is crucial as most people prefer the tankless mode over the traditional heaters. Although tankless heaters can deliver more benefits and usages (not to mention that it’s more modern), they still have their own risks and challenges.
That’s why you should know the possible problems with tankless water heaters before you install one at home.
What to Know about the Heater?
Tankless water heaters represent a significant advancement in water heating technology over traditional tank water heaters. These modern, eco-friendly devices help save on energy bills and eliminate the need for a bulky storage tank to store hot water.
However, it’s important to recognize that, like any appliance, tankless models are not without their imperfections. Despite the myths and ‘urban legends’ surrounding these units, understanding the factual aspects of their operation and maintenance is crucial.
One of the biggest concerns about the heater is the possibility of exploding. Can tankless water heaters explode? The truth is: NO.
In fact, there is no explosion risk or whatsoever. These kinds of tanks are made from metal, created to hold high pressure and temperature. Moreover, they have their own safety valve, responsible for releasing pressure when it is too high.
If you are worried that your tankless device may explode, go with the one with a stainless steel casing. This will give you an extra protection layer against any possibility of explosion. Not to mention that stainless steel is longer lasting and more durable, so you have nothing to worry about.
Moreover, suppose you wonder whether a tankless water heater causes carbon monoxide. In that case, you should know that the gas-powered heater (tankless or the traditional model) has the possibility of leaking carbon monoxide.
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This dangerous and deadly gas can affect everyone at home, resulting from poor vents or improper installation. So, there is always a possibility of carbon monoxide issues. That’s why you should only consult a professional and reputable service with a license and insurance.
Dangers of Tankless Water Heaters
What are tankless water heaters’ potential risks and dangers in a residential setting? While tankless water heaters don’t have the risk associated with storing large volumes of hot water, like traditional tank models, are not without their challenges.
Understanding these risks is essential for anyone looking to install a tankless system in their home.
- Overload. Each heater comes with its own flow rate capacity. If you misuse it, the system may be overloaded, resulting in issues. Some users may not get hot water when it happens, while others do. There is also a possibility that the device may shut down completely.
- Cold water (sandwich) effect. It happens when a person gets into a shower after another has just finished. The water will start hot, but it will be cold only for several seconds (but can last for a minute), and then it heats up again. If you encounter this issue, you may want to check your heater.
- Sediment or mineral buildup. When there is mineral buildup, you may experience blocked pipes. The passageways would become narrow so that the water couldn’t pass properly. You must flush the system, but let the professional do it.
- Ignition or flame failure. When the heater doesn’t seem to turn on, although you have activated it, it can be a gas line or electric problem. In short, you are dealing with cold water as no hot water is available.
Read also: Can an Electric Water Heater Explode? Here are the Signs
One notable advantage is that tankless water heaters are safer in many aspects compared to their tank counterparts, primarily because there’s no risk of a storage tank leaking or bursting. However, issues such as a faulty pressure valve or problems with the water flowing correctly through the unit can still pose risks.
Moreover, powered tankless water heater models, especially those running on gas, require careful installation to ensure proper venting and prevent the risk of carbon monoxide exposure.
Final Words
Ultimately, you should know that an electric tankless heater is generally safe – even safer than the traditional model. If you understand the system and can take safety steps to minimize the possibility of danger, you won’t have to worry about anything.
Basically, the dangers of tankless water heaters can be minimized and prevented, but you will need to understand how the system works and how to deal with it.
