We asked Gary to share his answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have about water heating systems.

Why choose tankless?
GARY SULLIVAN: Rheem tankless water heaters are a favorite of mine. Tankless is ideal for providing low-cost hot water whenever and wherever you need it. With today's rising energy costs, Rheem is a smart choice.
There are three key advantages to installing a tankless water heater at home: lower cost of operation, an endless supply of hot water, and space-savings.

Tankless heaters are energy-efficient because they only use energy on demand (when someone turns on the hot water tap). That’s much more efficient than tank heaters, which work around the clock heating the water for later use. With tankless, you never run out of heated water because it isn’t stored – it’s heated only as you need it. And tankless units are small – typically about the size of a medicine cabinet, so they don’t take up much space. 

Will tankless save me money?
SULLIVAN: Every household is different, so cost savings depend on how much hot water you use. But gallon-per-gallon, tankless will cost you less. Rheem estimates that on average, tankless heating is about 30% less expensive than natural-gas, tank-type heating. What’s more, Rheem tankless heaters can be expected to last 15-20 years, compared to eight or 10 years for the average tank type unit.

Is tankless expensive to install?
SULLIVAN: Tankless is more expensive up front to install, but you recover the cost over time, and you continue to save through energy efficiency. On average, a standard Rheem tankless installation costs about twice as much as a tank-type installation. Expect to pay more if you want to relocate or conceal your water and gas pipes.

Where does the tankless unit go?
SULLIVAN: You can install a new tankless unit wherever your tank-type unit was – the attic, garage, basement or utility closet. A lot of people install them on an outside wall, saving even more space.

How do I know tankless is the right option for me?
SULLIVAN: Tankless isn’t for every home, but for new construction, you’d be silly not to put in tankless.

Which is the right tankless unit for me?
SULLIVAN: The most common problem with installing tankless water heaters is improper sizing. Talk with your plumber to make sure you get the right unit for your home. Pay attention to your lifestyle and how you use water. Do you have multiple bathrooms, or a large family with simultaneous hot-water needs? Do you have a whirlpool tub or a two-person shower?

Your plumber will also determine the ambient incoming water temperature, which is much lower for people in northern states than those in warmer climates, and the temperature rise needed to get heated water. Factored along with the local water temperature will also be any simultaneous demands for hot water by the homeowner.

Why hasn’t my plumber recommended tankless?
SULLIVAN: Slowly, but surely professional plumbers are getting on board, but some just don’t understand tankless technology. Like anything else that is new or perceived to be new, it takes some time. Homeowners who want tankless should push back a little bit on plumbers who are reluctant. The smart plumbers are the ones who go after that business.

About Rheem Manufacturing Company
Rheem Manufacturing Company (www.rheem.com) is a privately held company with headquarters in Atlanta, Ga. In its 81st year of operation, the company manufactures a full-line of high-quality residential and commercial heating and cooling systems, water heaters, swimming pool heaters and commercial boilers throughout North America and world markets. The premium brands of Rheem Manufacturing Company include Ruud, Raypak and Rheem. Rheem Manufacturing Company is the major associate sponsor of Richard Childress Racing and the No. 29 team driven by Kevin Harvick, 2007 Daytona 500 Champion, 2007 Craftsman Truck Series Champion and 2006 Busch Series Champion. Rheem is also the primary sponsor of Kevin Harvick Inc.’s No. 33 and No. 77 car for four high-profile Nationwide Series races in 2008.