Category: Hot Water

Picture this: It’s a brisque morning in Calgary, and you are running extremely late for work. You need a quick shower before heading out the door. You turn the shower on, hop in, and are met with disappointing (and shocking!) frigid water. There’s nothing worse than stepping into an icy shower when you were expecting hot water.

You may also be experiencing your hot water being inconsistent and temperamental, turning cold halfway through showers and loads of laundry.

If your electric or gas hot water heater is not working properly, don’t worry. Our hot water tank repair and installation team will guide you through the common causes of no hot water or inconsistent heating, as well as some temporary fixes and permanent solutions from Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting in Calgary.

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Common Causes of No Hot Water

Thermostat Issues

The thermostat controls the temperature of your hot water tank. If the thermostat is set too low, you might not be getting enough heat. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your water to be too hot or too cold. The ideal setting for your thermostat is around 120°F (49°C). If it’s set lower than this, you may experience cooler water.

If your thermostat is set correctly and the water is still cold, it could be broken and may need to be replaced. Regular checks of your thermostat settings can help prevent this issue.

Faulty Heating Element

In electric water heaters, the heating element is responsible for heating the water. If one or both elements are faulty, your water may not be heating properly. A broken heating element can result in either no hot water or inconsistent temperatures.

For gas water heaters, the issue may lie with the burner or gas valve. A burner that doesn’t ignite properly or a faulty gas valve can cause the heater to stop working. These parts may need to be inspected and replaced by a professional.

Sediment Build-Up

Calgary’s hard water can lead to mineral build-up at the bottom of your gas or electric hot water heater. This sediment can reduce the efficiency of your system, causing inconsistent water temperatures. If you hear rumbling or popping sounds coming from the tank, it’s likely due to sediment build-up. Flushing the tank can remove the sediment and restore heating performance.

Regular tank maintenance can help prevent this issue from developing over time. However, if sediment has built up significantly, a professional plumber may need to flush the tank for you. You may also want to contact a Calgary water softener installer to soften your hard water.

Broken Dip Tube

The dip tube directs cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it’s heated. If the dip tube is broken, cold water can mix with the hot water at the top of the tank. This results in inconsistent water temperatures or cooler water overall.

A broken dip tube is a common issue in older storage tank water heaters. If your water is warm but not as hot as it should be, or if it turns cold quickly, the dip tube could be to blame. Replacing the dip tube can help restore proper heating.

Holdover Fixes for No Hot Water or Inconsistent Heating

While you wait for a professional plumber to arrive, there are a few steps you can take to temporarily fix the problem and keep your water hot.

Check the Thermostat

One of the simplest things you can do is check the thermostat settings on your hot water heater. Make sure it’s set to around 120°F (49°C). If it’s set lower than this, adjust it to see if that resolves the issue.

If the thermostat doesn’t respond to changes, it may need to be replaced.

Reset the Water Heater

Many electric water heaters have a reset button located near the thermostat. Pressing this button might restore the water heater’s function.

After resetting, wait a few minutes to see if the water starts heating again. If not, there could be a problem with the heating element or thermostat that requires professional attention.

Drain the Tank

If sediment build-up is the problem, draining the tank can help. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, run the hose to a nearby drain, and open the valve to drain the water. This removes some of the sediment that could be affecting heating performance.

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However, draining the tank on your own can be tricky. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s best to leave this step to a professional plumber.

Check the Pilot Light (for Gas Heaters)

If you have a gas water heater, check to see if the pilot light is still on. If it’s gone out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it.

If the water heater’s pilot light doesn’t stay lit, there may be an issue with the gas supply valve or thermocouple. You’ll need a plumber to inspect and fix these components.

Permanent Solutions for No Hot Water or Inconsistent Heating

Temporary fixes are helpful, but they won’t permanently resolve the issue. Son-Rise Plumbing offers long-term solutions that will restore consistent hot water.

Replace the Thermostat

If the thermostat is malfunctioning, replacing it is the best solution. Our team at Son-Rise Plumbing can test your thermostat and determine if it’s causing the problem. A new thermostat ensures that your water stays at a consistent temperature.

Replace the Heating Element (Electric Water Heater)

A faulty heating element can prevent water from reaching the desired temperature. If one or both heating elements are damaged, Son-Rise Plumbing can replace them. We’ll inspect the unit and replace any faulty elements to restore your water heater’s efficiency.

Fix the Burner or Gas Valve (Gas Water Heater)

If you have a gas powered water heater, the problem may be with the burner or gas valve. A malfunctioning burner won’t ignite properly, or a faulty gas supply valve could prevent gas from reaching the burner. We’ll inspect the gas components and replace anything that’s worn out or broken, getting your water heater back to full working order.

Flush the Tank

If sediment build-up is affecting the performance of your hot water heater, flushing it can help. Our professional plumbers will flush the tank to remove any sediment, improving the heater’s efficiency. Regular tank maintenance can help prevent future build-up.

Replace the Dip Tube

If the dip tube is broken, replacing it will prevent cold water from mixing with your hot water. This simple fix restores proper heating and ensures that your tank delivers consistently hot water.

Consider Tank Replacement

In some cases, replacing the entire hot water tank may be the best long-term solution. If your tank is old or has had multiple issues, a new tank can provide more reliable hot water. Son-Rise Plumbing offers modern, energy-efficient water heaters that can save you money in the long run. We’ll help you choose the right unit for your home and install it safely.

Why Choose Son-Rise Plumbing for Hot Water Tank Repairs in Calgary?

At Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting, we understand how important reliable hot water is to your home. We’ve been helping Calgary homeowners with hot water tank repairs for over 30 years.

Here’s why you should choose us:

• Experienced Plumbers: Our team has seen every hot water issue you can imagine. Whether it’s a simple fix or a full replacement, we have the experience to get the job done right.
• Quick Response: Hot water issues can’t wait. We offer same-day service to make sure you’re not left without hot water for long.
• Local Knowledge: We know Calgary’s unique plumbing challenges, from freezing temperatures to hard water. We’re here to provide solutions that work for your home.
• Customer Satisfaction: We take pride in providing excellent service. Our customers consistently rate us as one of Calgary’s top plumbing companies.

Call Son-Rise Plumbing Today for Your Hot Water Repair

If your hot water tank or tankless heater unit isn’t working properly, don’t wait. Contact Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting today. Our expert team will diagnose the problem, explain your options, and get your hot water running again in no time!

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If your gas water heater pilot light keeps going out, you could be left without hot water when you need it most.

The pilot light is essential for heating your water, so when it goes out, you need to get it fixed quickly.

In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of a pilot light going out, offer some temporary fixes, and explain how Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting can help with permanent solutions for gas water tank repair in Calgary.

Common Reasons Your Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

Thermocouple Problems

A faulty or dirty thermocouple is one of the most common pilot light problems. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is on. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent a leak.

However, if you have a dirty, misaligned, or broken thermocouple, it may cut off the gas supply even when the pilot light is on. This could be why your pilot light won’t stay lit.

The thermocouple senses heat from the pilot light flame for it to work. If the thermocouple can’t detect the heat from the pilot light, it will shut down the gas, and the pilot light will go out.

Drafts or Airflow Issues

Another common reason for a pilot light going out is drafts or airflow disruptions. If your water heater is located near a door, window, or vent, sudden gusts of air can blow out the pilot light.

This problem is more common in older homes or in rooms with poor ventilation.

If you notice that the pilot light goes out during windy days or when nearby windows or doors are open, it’s likely that airflow is the issue.

Dirty Pilot Tube

The pilot light is fueled by gas that flows through a small pilot tube. Over time, dirt, dust, or other debris can clog the gas line tube, preventing the gas from reaching the pilot light properly. This results in a weak flame that may not stay lit.

A dirty gas line will need to be cleaned or repaired to restore normal function.

Stop-Gap Fixes for a Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

While waiting for a plumber or if you think this is a one-time thing, there are a few steps you can try to temporarily fix the issue. These solutions might help get your pilot light going again.

Relight the Pilot Light

If the pilot light has gone out, you can try relighting it. Most water heaters have instructions on the side of the unit that explain how a pilot light ignites safely. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully.

Warning: If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Instead, turn off the gas supply, leave the area, and contact a professional immediately.

Clean the Dirty Thermocouple

If the thermocouple in your gas hot water tank is dirty, you can gently clean it with a piece of sandpaper or a small brush. This removes any dirt or debris that may be interfering with its ability to detect heat from the pilot light.

Be cautious not to damage the thermocouple during cleaning. If cleaning doesn’t help, it may need to be replaced.

Check for Drafts

If your pilot light’s flame goes out because of a draft, try closing nearby windows or doors to eliminate airflow disruptions. You can also check if the area around the water heater is properly sealed to prevent wind from blowing out the pilot light.

Professional Solutions for a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit

If the pilot flame continues to go out, a more permanent solution is needed. Son-Rise Plumbing can help with professional repairs that fix the root of the problem.

Replace the Faulty Thermocouple

If the thermocouple is damaged or misaligned, it won’t properly detect the heat from the water heater pilot light. A replacement thermocouple is a simple fix that will restore the normal function of your water heater. Our team can inspect the thermocouple and replace it quickly, ensuring your pilot light stays lit.

Repair or Replace the Gas Valve

In some cases, the problem lies with the gas valve itself. If the gas valve is faulty, it won’t supply enough gas to keep the water heater pilot light burning. Son-Rise Plumbing can repair or replace gas valves, restoring proper gas flow and preventing the pilot light from going out.

Clean or Replace the Pilot Light Tube

If a dirty pilot tube is causing the issue, our plumbers can clean it out to restore proper gas flow to the pilot light. If the tube is damaged or too clogged, it may need to be replaced. This will help ensure a continuously burning flame.

Address Draft Issues

If drafts are the problem, we can assess the location of your water heater and suggest solutions to improve airflow. This may involve sealing gaps or moving the water heater to a more sheltered area.

Why Choose Son-Rise Plumbing for Hot Water Heater Repairs in Calgary?

At Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting, we’ve been helping Calgary homeowners with gas water heater repairs for over 30 years.

Whether it’s a pilot light issue or another repair, our team has the expertise to get your hot water running again quickly.

You can trust that we’ll bring:

• Skilled Technicians: We have experience handling all types of hot water tank or tankless unit problems, including pilot light issues. You can trust us to find the cause and provide a reliable fix.
• Fast Service: A water heater without a pilot flame means no hot water. That’s why we offer same-day service to get your hot water back as soon as possible.
• Local Knowledge: We understand the unique challenges of Calgary homes, from harsh winters to common gas system issues. Our solutions are tailored to your home’s needs.
• Customer Satisfaction: We’re proud to be one of Calgary’s top-rated plumbing companies, known for our friendly service and quality repairs.

Call Son-Rise Plumbing Today for Hot Water Heater Repairs

If your pilot light flame won’t stay lit, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting today. Our expert Calgary team will inspect your water heater, find the cause of the issue, and provide the right solution.

We’ll make sure your hot water is running smoothly in no time.

Is your water heater leaking? A leaking water heater can be a serious issue. It may cause water damage, increase your bills, or lead to a complete system failure. If you see water around your hot water heater or suspect a leak, don’t wait— take action right away.

In this article, our Calgary water heater repair team will explain the common causes of a leaking water heater. You’ll also learn some quick fixes and the permanent solutions Son-Rise Plumbing and Gasfitting can offer.

Common Causes of Your Water Heater Leaking

There are several reasons why you have a water heater leak. Understanding the cause helps you find the right solution.
Here are the most common reasons:

1. Corrosion

Over time, hot water heaters can start to rust. This is especially true if it’s older or hasn’t been maintained. Rust can create small holes or cracks, allowing water to seep out. Unfortunately, this issue is often irreversible once corrosion sets in.

2. Excessive Pressure

Too much pressure in your hot water heater can cause leaks. This happens if the water pressure is too high or the temperature is set too high. The extra pressure forces water out of weak spots in the tank or its connections.

3. Faulty Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve)

The T&P valve is a safety feature. It releases water if the pressure or temperature gets too high. A defective valve or too much pressure can cause it to leak water.

4. Loose Connections

Sometimes, water heater leaks occur because of loose connections. This could be the inlet and outlet pipes or the T&P valve. Regularly checking your tank can help you spot loose connections early.

5. Cracked or Worn Components

Parts of your tank can wear out over time. This includes the anode rod, gaskets, or seals. When these parts crack or break down, they can cause leaks around the fittings or tank.

Quick Tip: Regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues before they lead to leaks. Yes, we do offer maintenance plans to keep you protected. Ask us about it!

Temporary Fixes for a Leaking Water Heater

If your hot water heater is leaking, you should call a professional plumber. But there are a few steps you can take to reduce the damage while you wait.

Here are some quick fixes you can try.

Turn Off the Water Supply

The first thing to do is stop water from entering the tank. Find the cold water supply valve on top of the tank and turn it clockwise. This will stop more water from entering the tank and prevent the leak from getting worse.

Drain the Tank

If there’s a lot of water around the tank, you may want to drain it. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Run the hose outside or to a floor drain. Then, open the valve and let the water drain out. This will reduce the pressure in the tank and stop the leak from getting worse.

Warning: Draining a hot water heater can be tricky, and even dangerous. If you’re not sure, wait for a professional. This is not a required step, so don’t stress if you don’t do this!

Check and Tighten Connections

Sometimes, water heater leaks are caused by loose connections. Carefully check all the fittings and valves on your tank. If you see a loose connection, try tightening it with a wrench. But be careful not to over-tighten, as this could cause more damage.

These are just temporary solutions. A professional plumber will still need to inspect and fix the problem. Wouldn’t you know it— we repair hot water tanks.

Permanent Solutions for a Leaking Water Heater

Once you’ve taken temporary measures, it’s time to fix the leak for good. The permanent solution will depend on the cause of the leak.

Here’s what might need to be done:

Replace the Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve)

If the T&P valve is causing a water heater leak, it may be faulty or stuck open. Our team at Son-Rise Plumbing can replace the valve quickly, restoring your system to normal.

Repair or Replace Loose Fittings

If the leak is due to loose or damaged connections, a plumber will inspect the tank. We’ll check the inlet and outlet pipes, fittings, and other connections. Depending on the problem, the fittings may need to be tightened, repaired, or replaced.

Replace the Water Heater

If the tank is corroded or very old, replacing it might be the best option. Son-Rise Plumbing can help you choose a new, energy-efficient hot water tank or tankless water heater to install. We’ll install the new unit and safely dispose of the old one.

Fun Fact: New hot water tanks are much more energy-efficient than older models. This could save you money on your energy bills!

Prevent Future Leaks with Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent a water heater leak. Son-Rise Plumbing offers maintenance services, including flushing your tank and checking valves. We also provide water leak detection services, too!

We’ll also inspect for signs of wear and tear. Preventive maintenance can help extend the life of your tank. If something happens to your appliances, you’ll get priority booking times and get a discount on services.

Why Choose Son-Rise Plumbing for Water Heater Repairs in Calgary?

When you have a plumbing issue, you want a team you can trust. Son-Rise Plumbing and Gasfitting has been serving Calgary homeowners for over 30 years.

We’ve got:

• Expertise You Can Trust: Our experienced team has seen it all. Whether it’s a minor water leak or a major problem, we’ll get your water heater back in shape.
• Fast Response Times: We understand that plumbing problems can’t wait. That’s why we offer same-day service to handle your plumbing emergencies.
• Local Calgary Knowledge: We know Calgary’s unique challenges, from freezing winters to high water pressure. Our team is prepared for the specific needs of local homes.
• Customer Satisfaction: We’re proud to be one of Calgary’s top-rated plumbing companies. Our customers love our friendly service and high-quality work.

If your gas or electric water heater is leaking, don’t wait. Waiting longer could mean the problem getting worse.

Contact Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting today to schedule a repair or replacement. A water heater professional will inspect your water heater and explain the best options for fixing the leak.

We’re here to help you get your hot water system back to normal—fast!

Hot Water Tanks — An Alberta Classic

If you grew up in Alberta, your family probably had a large hot water tank in the basement. You might still have one in your home now, especially if you live in a larger home. The tank was likely massive, expensive to run, and potentially temperamental.

While tank water heaters are still common, there has been a shift towards tankless water heaters, with their reputation for lower energy bills and less need for space. So why would someone switch? What about staying with a tank-style, should some houses stay the same?

If you’re in the market for a new hot water system for your Calgary home, it’s a good idea to understand the different types of water heaters available. In this guide, we’ll compare tankless water heaters and traditional hot water tanks, helping you understand their differences, benefits, and drawbacks.

By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which system suits your home and needs. The answer is different from home to home, so read on and decide for yourself.

Still unsure after reading? Our plumbing experts here at Son-Rise Plumbing would be happy to advise you.

Tank vs. Tankless Guide:

1: Overview of Water Heating Systems
2: Cost Comparison
3: Energy Efficiency
4: Space and Installation
5: Maintenance and Lifespan
6: Hot Water Supply
7: Environmental Impact
What Is The Best Water Heater?

1: Overview of Water Heating Systems

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters or instantaneous water heaters, heat water only when you need it. The second you turn on the hot water tap, cold water travels into the water heater, where it is heated by a gas burner or electric element. Water is heated as needed without ever being stored in a large hot water tank.

Hot Water Tanks

Traditional hot water tanks store and preheat a large volume of water in a tank. The water is kept hot and ready for use, but once it’s all used up, there can be a wait while the tank refills and heats another tank of water. The tank capacity you would choose depends on the amount of people in your house and how much hot water you go through every day.

2: Cost Comparison Of Water Heaters

Initial Cost Comparison

Tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost compared to hot water tanks. The water heater units are more expensive. Installing them through a North West Calgary plumber usually costs more as well. Installation will probably require some upgrades to your plumbing system, natural gas lines, and electrical systems. They usually require new venting pipes too. They need to be installed to code, and these initial costs can add up.

Storage tank water heaters cost less to buy. Larger capacity tanks or ones with energy efficiency upgrades can cost a little more. Installing a tank water heater is usually pretty straightforward especially if it’s a replacement and all of the hookups are already there.

Long-term Cost Analysis

Tankless water heaters use less energy each month as they aren’t constantly heating a stored tank of hot water. There’s also less heat loss. That efficiency translates to lower utility bills each month, which adds up long-term. Tankless heaters also have lower maintenance needs and a longer lifespan. So while they cost quite a bit more to install, those costs can be justified with the longer-term efficiency and savings down the road.

Storage tank water heaters cost more to run each month, more to maintain, and need to be replaced more often.

Winner: Hot Water Tank

Installing a hot water tank will definitely be easier on your bank account upfront.

3: Water Heater Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient. They aren’t continually heating a tank of water. There’s less heat loss. They can be up to 34% more energy-efficient than traditional tank heaters. By heating water only when you need it, an ENERGY STAR certified gas heated tankless water heater can save a family of four $1,800 over its lifetime on utility bills. It just makes sense – keeping water hot until you need it costs energy, and you have to pay for it.

Hot water tanks are less energy-efficient with their constant heating and reheating of stored water. Standby heat loss also contributes to higher energy bills.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient, and great for both the environment and your monthly utility bill.

4: Space and Installation

Tankless water heaters are designed to be compact and mounted on the wall with no large tank taking up space. This is a big advantage if you live in a condo, a smaller home, or a home without a basement. Installing a tankless water heater is more complex and usually requires some upgrades to your existing plumbing, natural gas, and electrical systems. Gas line upgrades, new venting pipes, upgrades to your electrical system and changes to your water lines could all be required to have your install up to code.

Hot water tanks require space for the large tank itself and for installation and maintenance access. Most people install them in the basement. Tank heaters are usually easier and less expensive to install. If you’re replacing a hot water tank, all of the electrical components will already be there, making it fairly straightforward for any plumber.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

The space saving compact design, combined with being wall mounted, gives the edge to tankless heaters, despite the often more complex installations.

5: Maintenance and Lifespan

Tankless water heaters and traditional storage tank water heaters have different maintenance needs and lifespans.

Tankless water heaters need to be descaled and flushed to prevent mineral buildup. Doing this every year or every second year should be enough, depending on the hardness of your water. The inlet filter and air filter both also need to be cleaned regularly.

Tankless water heaters generally need fewer repairs over their lifespan with less wear and tear compared to tank systems that are continually in use. However, when repairs are needed, they can be more expensive and can include replacing heating elements and sensors.

Hot water tanks should be flushed once a year to remove sediment buildup, but generally, maintenance is simpler than for tankless systems. The temperature and pressure relief valve should also be checked to make sure it’s working correctly. If your hot water tank develops a leak, it can be quite expensive to fix.

Tank heaters need more frequent repairs because of their constant operation. Common repairs include replacing the heat exchanger, heating elements, thermostats, and addressing leaks. The more frequent need for repairs can add up over the lifespan of the unit.

While tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance, hot water tanks typically need to be replaced after 10-15 years.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

While both require regular maintenance, the more frequent repairs of tank heaters along with needing to be replaced more often give the slight edge to tankless water heaters here.

6: Hot Water Supply

Tankless water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water at the moment you need it. You won’t run out of hot water and need to wait for another tank to heat water up. That said, tankless heaters can be less efficient during those extreme Alberta cold snaps. Also, the flow rate has a limit and hot water flow may not be enough in a larger household when everyone is running hot water at once.

Hot water tanks have a large enough supply of hot water to have multiple taps and showers going at once without reducing the flow rate. This is great for large families that are all using hot water at once. However, once that hot water is gone, you’ll need to wait for another tank to be filled and heated.

Winner: Depends on household needs

For homes or apartments with only one or two people, a tankless water heater will meet your hot water demands and you’ll never run out of hot water. If you have a large family and use a lot of hot water at certain times, a storage tank water heater might be the better option.

7: Environmental Impact

Tankless water heaters have a lower environmental impact with higher energy efficiency ratings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Hot water tanks continuously burn energy even when not in use.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

If eco-friendly hot water is important, a tankless water heater is the way to go.

What Is The Best Water Heater?

The best water heater really depends on your house, family size, and preferences. Although it would be easier to pick one and tell you, we’d rather you make the decision that is right for you and your home.

For homes with lower hot water demands and apartments with limited space, a tankless water heater is a great option. A tankless heater will lower your energy bills and is the better choice for the environment.

On the other hand, if you have a large family and use a lot of hot water all at once, a traditional tank heater may be the better option. Hot water tanks are also more affordable upfront.

If you still aren’t sure, discussing your home and hot water needs with a licensed expert can help you make the best choice.

Call Son-Rise Plumbing Today!

Whether you need tankless or storage tank water heaters, one of our water heating professionals would love to talk to you.

Our team of licensed technicians has years of experience repairing, replacing, and installing water heaters in every type of home.

Call us at 403-274-1166 and have a no-obligation chat to go over your situation. Or get a quote for any type of hot water heater installation or service.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your home’s water heating system in Calgary, you’ve probably heard of tankless water heaters.

Tankless water heaters, usually known as just water heaters these days, heat water on demand instead of storing hot water in a large tank. Many Albertans have made the investment with the promise of never running out of hot water and lower energy bills.

You might be wondering if installing a tankless heater is the right fit for you. In this post, our NW Calgary plumbers will go over the pros and cons of switching to a tankless water heater and help you make the best decision for your home.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Before buying, it’s important to understand the different types of water heaters.

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand heaters, instantaneous heaters, and continuous flow water heaters, heat water directly as you need it. When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the water heater. Heating is done by either a gas burner or an electric element. Water is only heated as needed without being stored in a large hot water tank.

The old-style traditional water heaters vs. a tankless unit store and continuously heat a large tank of water. Once the hot water runs out, you’re left with cold water until another tank of hot water is heated. Bad news if you need hot water for an extended period of time.

These days, when people say “water heaters”, they’re usually referring to tankless water heaters.

Tankless Water Heater Pros

1. Hot Water on Demand

Tankless water heaters deliver a continual, constant supply of hot water at the moment you need it. No more waiting for a giant water tank to have enough hot water again before you can take a shower after your kids use up all the hot water.

2. Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than tank water heaters. An ENERGY STAR certified tankless system uses 30% less energy, on average, than a storage tank type (source: Natural Resources Canada). They aren’t storing and constantly heating a large tank of hot water like a tank water heater. There’s less heat loss as well. Water is only heated when you need it, lowering your energy bills.

A typical natural gas tankless water heater has an average energy factor of 0.85, while a typical natural gas tank water heater has an average energy factor of 0.62 (source: Natural Resources Canada). Energy factor (EF) is used to rate the efficiency of water heaters.

3. Lower Utility Bills

Lower energy use means lower utility bills. With Alberta utility bills increasing, that can translate to big savings on your monthly budget. Our Airdrie plumbers can walk you through the best tankless units to lower your energy bills.

4. Longer Lifespan

Tankless heaters have an average lifespan of 20-30 years. Compare that with traditional tank water heaters, which typically last 10-15 years. That’s a lifespan up to twice as long with regular flushing and proper maintenance.

5. Space-Saving Design

Tankless water heaters have a compact design with no large tank taking up space and are usually wall-mounted. This is a huge plus for smaller homes or condos that don’t have huge basements.

6. Government Rebates and Programs

The City of Calgary is participating in the Alberta Municipalities Clean Energy Improvement Program which lets you finance the entire cost of upgrading to a tankless water heater. You repay it through your regular property tax bill, with financing tied to the property, not the property owner.

As for government rebates, while it’s possible more will be introduced in the future, for the moment all rebates are over.
The Government of Alberta did launch a rebate program for Alberta homeowners who upgraded to tankless water heaters, but this program was scrapped along with the Energy Efficiency Alberta website.

7. Smart Technology

Modern tankless water heaters usually have smart features like WiFi compatibility, letting you to monitor and change settings from an app on your phone.

They’re also compatible with Alexa and Google Home, letting you use voice commands to set temperatures, turn your water heater off or on, track your hot water usage statistics in real-time, and receive maintenance alerts.

Tankless Water Heater Cons

1. Higher Upfront Costs

The upfront purchase and installation costs for tankless water heaters are higher than installing a traditional tank unit. Tankless water heaters are more advanced, cost more to make, and are more complex to install. It’s definitely an investment, but the long-term energy savings and convenience upside usually justify the initial cost.

2. Additional Installation Requirements

Installing a tankless water heater usually requires some upgrades to your existing plumbing, gas, and electrical systems. It could mean gas line upgrades, installing new venting pipes, upgrading your home’s electrical system to handle more capacity, and changes to your water lines.

3. Maintenance Needs

Annual maintenance is needed to prevent sediment buildup, keep your water heater running efficiently, and prolong its lifespan.

4. Performance in Cold Climates

Calgary’s sometimes harsh winters can affect the efficiency of tankless water heaters. Extremely cold water requires more energy to heat, meaning water heaters can be less efficient during those cold snaps.

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

For homes with only a couple people and lower hot water demands, a tankless water heater is ideal. They’re also a great choice for small houses or apartments with limited space. If your priority is lowering your energy bills, or if you travel a lot and aren’t home that often, then a new tankless water heater is the more economical choice.

On the other hand, if you have a large family and use a lot of hot water, a single tankless unit might not be able to keep up. In that case, tank style water heaters or several tankless units are a better option. Some older homes may also not be worth the electrical and plumbing upgrading necessary to install a tankless water heater.

If you still aren’t sure, discuss your situation with an NE Calgary plumbing professional who can help you make the best choice for your home.

Tankless Water Heater Installation With Son-Rise Plumbing

If you’re ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater, we’re here to help. Our team of licensed professionals has years of experience repairing, replacing, and installing electric or gas tankless water heaters in every type of home.

Contact us to request a quote or call 403-274-1166 and talk to one of our experts to learn more about our tankless water heater options.