Indoor or Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Installation: Which One Is Right for You?
Indoor or outdoor tankless water heater installation? Learn the pros and cons of Melbourne Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Tankless water heaters are the plumbing upgrade of choice for households of all sizes. These units provide a plentiful supply of hot water without running out like traditional water heaters. They help you save on utility bills, too, due to their high-efficiency designs.
When you are shopping for a new tankless water heater, one important consideration is whether indoor or outdoor tankless water heaters make the most sense for you. Each option has benefits and drawbacks that affect performance, cost and efficiency.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater draws and heats water on demand. That means it doesn’t pre-heat your water and then store it in a tank until needed. This yields several advantages over the traditional tank-style appliance:
It takes up less space in your home.
It uses less energy since it does not have to reheat stored water.
It provides a consistent supply of hot water whenever you need it.
Tankless heaters can run on electricity, natural gas or liquid propane. Electric tankless water heaters work well for smaller households. Gas tankless water heaters supply larger homes with a higher flow of hot water,
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Also known as on-demand water heaters, tankless units connect to your household water supply. When someone turns on a hot water faucet or appliance in your home, the tankless heater draws cold water in, heats it instantly and sends the hot water to the point of demand.
Since the process is quick and efficient, heat loss is minimal. That means a tankless water heater uses less fuel. A storage tank heater, in contrast, must continue heating up the water in its tank until someone uses it.
Benefits of On-Demand Water Heater Systems
An on-demand, tankless water heater delivers a continuous supply of hot water to meet all your family’s needs. It fits more easily into your household because it does not have a bulky storage tank. In addition, most families enjoy lower utility bills because tankless heaters are fuel efficient.
Indoor Tankless Water Heater Installation
Indoor installation makes sense in areas with punishing weather. Indoor tankless water heaters easily fit where the old tank-style model once stood, or you can relocate it to a more convenient area.
Where is the Best Place for Your Indoor Water Heater?
A utility room, basement space, garage space or an empty closet are all possibilities for indoor tankless water heater installation. Proximity to plumbing supply pipes and fuel sources will help keep your installation costs down.
Advantages of Indoor Installation
Indoor tankless water heater installation offers the following advantages:
- Protection from the elements
- More efficient operation in colder climates
- Longer equipment life in some situations
- Convenient maintenance
Indoor Installation Considerations
Indoor installation of a tankless water heater must include venting to the outdoors. This is a safety requirement for both gas and electric appliances. The heater itself is compact – typically the size of a suitcase – but needs enough clearance on all sides for safe, efficient operation.
Outdoor Installation of Your Tankless Water Heater
An outdoor installation opens up extra space indoors when you need it. Before selecting outside installation, though, be sure you know the pros and cons.
Choosing an Outdoor Location
The typical location for a tankless water heater is on an exterior wall of your home that is convenient to plumbing connections. If you already have an outdoor utility space with plumbing, that is also an option.
Advantages of Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters
- More indoor space
- Already vented to the outdoors
- Easy access for maintenance and repair
Things to Consider with Outdoor Installation
If you choose an outdoor location for your tankless water heater, be sure to purchase an appliance designed for that purpose. It should have adequate insulation and a durable finish that will withstand many years of use. It should have built-in freeze protection, too, so that it keeps working in all kinds of weather. Ask your plumbing pros about any extra protective measures you might need.
Key Differences Between Outdoor or Indoor Tankless Water Heater Installation
To determine which location is best for your new tankless water heater, consider the advantages and drawbacks of each. Your available space, climate and personal preference should all play important roles in your decision.
Differences in Installation Needs
Venting is a key consideration. Indoor venting takes place through an exterior wall or ceiling. In contrast, outdoor installation usually does not require venting, saving on time and installation cost.
Climate and Environmental Concerns
Be sure to factor climate into the decision. Even though tankless heaters for outdoor locations have extra insulation and durability, you cannot protect against weather extremes like heavy hail or severe storms. An indoor installation provides more protection for your appliance.
Space and Accessibility
If you live in an apartment, you may not have outdoor space for a tankless water heater. By the same token, you may want to conserve space in your home by placing the unit outdoors. Both inside and outside locations should be accessible for maintenance.
How to Decide on the Right Installation Option for Your Household
A great way to make the installation decision is to sit down with our pros who install tankless water heaters and discuss the following:
- The layout of your home
- Local climate considerations
- Plumbing and gas line availability
By seeking an expert’s assessment before making your decision, you get the added assurance that your choice is right for your situation. We can also help by recommending the best tankless water heater size for your household.
The Importance of Professional Tankless Water Heater Installation
Your family depends on a reliable supply of hot water for bathing, cleaning and cooking. Professional installation ensures that your new water heater works efficiently from day one.
Our installation professionals know how to make safe, correct connections for the water, fuel and electricity your new appliance requires. They also take care to meet or exceed local building codes for best results. Prevent future installation and operational issues by getting it done right the first time. Get on our annual maintenance schedule, too, to extend the life of your tankless water heating system.
Hot Water Whenever You Need It
As your local plumbing and installation professionals, our crew at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Melbourne, Fla., is your top resource for tankless water heating installation. We know the local climate and can help with your installation concerns. Touch base with us to get started now, and remember, if there’s any delay, it’s YOU we pay.
FAQ’s – Indoor vs. Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Installation
Can tankless water heaters be installed outside?
Yes. Many tankless water heaters are designed for outdoor installation and are built to withstand weather conditions while providing on-demand hot water.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor tankless water heaters?
Indoor units require proper ventilation and are installed inside the home, while outdoor units are mounted outside and typically do not require additional venting.
Which is better: indoor or outdoor tankless water heater installation?
The best option depends on available space, climate conditions, installation costs, and plumbing layout.
Do outdoor tankless water heaters freeze in cold weather?
Outdoor units may require freeze protection in colder climates, but many models include built-in freeze prevention features.
Are indoor tankless water heaters more efficient than outdoor models?
Both indoor and outdoor tankless water heaters offer similar efficiency. The main differences relate to installation requirements and placement.
How much space do indoor tankless water heaters require?
Indoor units are compact and can often be installed in utility rooms, closets, garages, or other small spaces.
Do outdoor tankless water heaters require ventilation?
No. Outdoor units are designed to vent exhaust directly into the open air, which eliminates the need for indoor venting systems.
Can you replace a traditional water heater with an outdoor tankless unit?
Yes. Many homes can convert from a tank water heater to an outdoor tankless system, though plumbing and gas line upgrades may be required.
Are outdoor tankless water heaters easier to install?
In some cases, outdoor installation can be simpler because venting requirements are reduced compared to indoor units.
How long do tankless water heaters last?
Tankless water heaters typically last 15 to 20 years, which is longer than most traditional tank-style water heaters.
What maintenance is required for tankless water heaters?
Tankless systems should be flushed annually to remove mineral buildup and maintain efficient performance.
How do I know which tankless water heater installation is right for my home?
A professional plumber can evaluate your home’s plumbing system, hot water demand, and available space to recommend the best installation option.