Understanding Tankless Water Heater Technology

Tankless water heaters represent a significant advancement in home comfort technology, and at McNeight Excavating, we specialize in installing these efficient systems throughout Buffalo, NY and surrounding areas. Unlike traditional tank-style water heaters that continuously heat and store 40 to 80 gallons of water, tankless units heat water on demand as it flows through the device. This fundamental difference in operation provides numerous benefits that we help homeowners realize every day through our professional installation services.

The technology behind tankless water heaters involves powerful heat exchangers that activate when you turn on a hot water tap. Cold water travels through a pipe into the unit where either a gas burner or electric element heats the water instantly. This process delivers a constant supply of hot water without the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters. Our experienced technicians understand the intricacies of these systems and ensure proper sizing and installation for optimal performance in your home or small business.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Energy efficiency stands as one of the most compelling reasons to consider a tankless water heater installation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily. For homes that use around 86 gallons per day, they can be 8% to 14% more energy efficient. We work hard for your home or your small business to achieve these substantial energy savings through proper system selection and installation.

The long-term financial benefits extend beyond monthly utility savings. While the initial investment for a tankless system typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,500 including installation, the extended lifespan of these units often justifies the upfront cost. Tankless water heaters typically last more than 20 years, compared to 10 to 15 years for storage water heaters. Additionally, many utility companies offer rebates for installing energy-efficient tankless systems, which we help our customers navigate to maximize their savings.

Installation Requirements and Considerations

Installing a tankless water heater requires careful planning and professional expertise, which McNeight Excavating provides throughout Cheektowaga, Buffalo, Amherst, West Seneca, Depew, Lancaster, & Lackawanna, NY. Gas-powered units need proper venting and may require upgrading your home’s gas line to accommodate the higher BTU requirements during operation. Electric tankless heaters often necessitate electrical service upgrades, as they can require up to 150 amps of electrical capacity depending on the model and your hot water demands.

Our installation process begins with a comprehensive assessment of your home’s hot water needs, existing utilities, and structural considerations. We calculate the required flow rate by determining how many devices you want to run simultaneously and their individual flow rates. Temperature rise requirements depend on your incoming water temperature and desired output temperature. These calculations ensure we recommend and install the appropriately sized unit for your specific needs. No job too big, no job too small – we handle everything from compact point-of-use heaters to whole-home systems.

Maintenance and Service Excellence

Regular maintenance ensures your tankless water heater operates efficiently for decades, and our emergency service available means we’re always ready when you need us. Annual maintenance typically includes:

• Descaling the heat exchanger: mineral buildup from hard water can reduce efficiency and damage components
• Cleaning or replacing water and air filters: ensures proper flow rates and combustion efficiency
• Checking the burner operation: verifies proper combustion and safety device functionality
• Inspecting venting systems: ensures safe exhaust of combustion gases

We’re a family-friendly, customer service-focused plumbing and concrete company that understands the importance of reliable hot water in your daily life. Our maintenance programs help prevent unexpected failures and extend equipment life while maintaining manufacturer warranties.

Selecting the Right System

Choosing between gas and electric tankless water heaters involves evaluating several factors specific to your property. Gas units typically provide higher flow rates, making them suitable for larger households with simultaneous hot water demands. They operate during power outages when paired with battery backup systems. Electric units offer easier installation in homes with adequate electrical service, require no venting, and achieve nearly 100% energy efficiency.

Point-of-use tankless heaters serve individual fixtures or appliances, providing an excellent solution for remote bathrooms, workshops, or additions where running hot water lines from a central heater would be impractical or expensive. Whole-house systems require careful sizing based on peak demand calculations, climate considerations, and incoming water temperature variations throughout the year. Our expertise ensures you receive the most appropriate and cost-effective solution for your specific situation and budget requirements.