The Secret to Hot Water On Demand - Point of Use Water Heaters

Imagine being able to turn on the hot water tap and get an endless supply of hot water instantly, without ever having to wait for the water to heat up. No more wasting time and water while impatiently waiting for that first burst of hot water to travel through the pipes. The days of fluctuating water temperatures and mediocre showers are over. This dream scenario can become a reality with the use of point of use water heaters.

Point of use water heaters are compact, localized water heating solutions that can be installed right at the point of use, such as under a sink or near an appliance like a dishwasher. Unlike traditional central water heaters that heat and store large amounts of water in a central location, point of use heaters provide hot water on demand without the need for storage. This eliminates the frustrating wait for hot water and provides endless hot water precisely when and where you need it.

What is a Point of Use Water Heater?

A point of use water heater is a small, tankless water heater designed to provide hot water at the point of use rather than from a distant central water heater. Point of use heaters are installed directly at or near the hot water outlet, such as under a sink, near a washing machine or dishwasher, or at remote bathroom or kitchen locations.

Unlike standard water heaters that constantly heat and reheat water stored in a tank, point of use heaters don't store hot water. They contain heating elements that heat the water instantaneously as it flows through the unit, providing an endless supply of hot water on demand. Once the hot water tap is turned off, the unit shuts off as well, using energy only when hot water is needed.

Tankless System

The tankless design of point of use water heaters sets them apart from conventional water heating methods. By heating water as needed instead of maintaining a large volume of stored hot water ready 24/7, they conserve energy and make better use of limited space.

Tankless point of use heaters come in electric and gas-fueled models. Electric units use heating elements to heat the water as it flows through. Gas-fired units use gas burners to heat passing water. Both provide instant, continuous hot water without the constraints of a storage tank.

On Demand Hot Water

Gone are the days of turning on the hot water and waiting impatiently as the water gradually heats up. Point of use water heaters deliver hot water instantly, eliminating frustrating wait times. Their on demand operation means you get hot water the moment you need it, for as long as you need it, without delays or fluctuations in temperature.

Whether it's the shower, sink, washing machine, or dishwasher, point of use heaters can be installed wherever hot water is needed most. For locations with the highest hot water demands, they can be a godsend.

Key Benefits of Point of Use Water Heaters

Installing point of use water heaters provides a wide range of benefits compared to centralized water heating units:

• Hot water instantly - no waiting for hot water to travel through pipes
• Water conservation - no water wasted while waiting for hot water
• Energy efficiency - only heat water as needed, no constant heating and re-heating
• Zonal hot water - install heaters where hot water is needed most
• Compact size - install under sinks or in tight spaces
• Lower operating costs - less energy usage

By providing hot water on demand right where it's needed, point of use heaters can save time, water, energy, and frustration. Their tankless design allows for flexible placement in compact areas without sacrificing performance or capacity.

Types of Point of Use Water Heaters

There are two main types of tankless point of use water heaters:

Tankless Electric

Electric point of use heaters use electric heating elements to heat water as it flows through the unit. They provide an efficient, low-maintenance way to get hot water on demand without venting or combustion.

Electric models range from small under sink units to larger multi-fixture units. They can be plugged into a dedicated outlet or hardwired to an electric supply. Voltage, power supply, and amperage must be considered when selecting an electric point of use heater.

Tankless Gas

Gas-fired point of use heaters utilize gas burners to heat water as needed instead of using electric elements. They are powered by natural gas or liquid propane.

Gas models are available in a range of sizes. Smaller units can be mounted on a wall while larger ones may sit on the floor. Venting is required for exhaust gases. Gas lines must be adequately sized to supply sufficient fuel.

Gas tankless heaters provide greater flow rates for high demand situations. However, operation costs are higher compared to electric models.

Where to Install Point of Use Water Heaters

Some of the most common and advantageous locations for point of use water heater installation include:

• Under bathroom or kitchen sinks - Provide instant hot water to faucets.
• Next to appliances - Supply hot water to dishwashers, washing machines.
• Remote bathrooms or kitchens - Get hot water without running long pipes.
• Commercial kitchens - Meet high hot water demands.

Anywhere that could benefit from a dedicated source of hot water on demand can be a candidate for point of use heater installation. For new construction or remodels, incorporating multiple point of use heaters can eliminate the need for a whole house tank-style water heater.

Sizing and Installation

Choosing the correctly sized unit is important to ensure the point of use heater can fulfill the hot water demands of its application. Factors like peak flow rate, average daily usage, and temperature rise should be taken into account. Professional sizing assistance is recommended.

Installation of point of use heaters involves connecting to electrical or gas supply lines, water lines, and if gas, exhaust venting. Wiring and plumbing must conform to code requirements. Permits may be required for some installations. Professional installation is recommended.

Point of Use vs Central Water Heaters

Here is how point of use water heaters compare to conventional central water heaters:

For most homes, a combination of the two provides the best results. Point of use heaters deliver hot water quickly to high demand areas, while the central heater provides backup capacity for the rest of the home.

Point of use water heaters provide the comfort and convenience of instantaneous hot water exactly where and when you need it. Their innovative tankless design eliminates waits and inefficiencies associated with traditional centralized water heating.

Point of use heaters are a simple and powerful way to upgrade your home's hot water delivery. Contact us today with any questions about utilizing point of use heaters in your home or business!