How do I get instant hot water in my sink?

Getting instant hot water right from your sink faucet can make day-to-day tasks like washing dishes, cleaning, and cooking much more convenient. Waiting for water to heat up wastes time and water. Installing an instant hot water system eliminates that wait providing hot water directly from the tap within seconds. Here are some quick answers about how to get instant hot water in your sink:

What is an instant hot water system?

An instant hot water system, also known as instantaneous or tankless water heater, heats water directly as it passes through the unit. Unlike a conventional storage tank water heater that maintains a reservoir of constantly heated water, a tankless heater only heats water as needed. When the hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. Inside, the water passes over electrically heated coils or a gas burner that rapidly heats the water. The hot water then continues through the pipes to the tap. This on-demand design means there is no tank to run out of hot water.

How does an instant hot water system work?

Tankless water heaters provide hot water by passing incoming cold tap water through a heat exchanger. Within the heat exchanger, one of two heat sources rapidly increases the temperature of the water. The two heat source options are:

• Electric – Two or more electric heating elements heat the water when activated by the water flow. As water passes over the heating elements, it warms up to the desired set temperature.
• Gas – A gas burner ignites whenever hot water is needed. The burner’s flames heat the water flowing through a series of metal tubes or plates within the heat exchanger.

This immediate water heating completely eliminates the wait time associated with traditional water heater systems. When the hot water tap is opened, cold water travels through the pipes into the tankless unit. Sensors detect the water flow and activate the heating elements or gas burners. By the time the water exits the unit, it has reached the preset output temperature, ready to supply hot water directly to the tap.

What are the benefits of instant hot water systems?

Installing an instant hot water system provides several advantages over a conventional tank water heater:

• Endless hot water – Tankless systems provide a limitless supply of hot water. The heating burners or elements only activate when hot water is needed. There is no storage tank capacity limit.
• Faster hot water delivery – Hot water is generated immediately when the faucet is turned on, eliminating the wait time for heated water from a remote tank.
• Energy efficiency – Instant systems avoid standby energy losses associated with maintaining a tank full of constantly heated water. They use energy only for the hot water needed.
• Compact size – With no bulky storage tank, tankless units require much less installation space.
• Durability – Tankless systems last longer than traditional water heaters, with an average lifespan of 20 years or more.
• Consistent temperatures – Sophisticated controls precisely maintain the hot water temperature, avoiding fluctuations.

By providing an endless on-demand supply of hot water, tankless water heaters can significantly improve daily efficiency and convenience in the kitchen or bathroom.

What size instant hot water system do I need?

Choosing the proper size tankless water heater for your needs is very important for optimum performance. The major factors to consider are:

• Peak demand – The maximum flow rate needed based on the number of hot water applications likely to be used at the same time. For a sink, this is typically 1-2 gallons per minute (GPM).
• Temperature rise – The increase needed from groundwater temperature to reach the desired hot water temp. A 60°F rise is common.
• Efficiency – The rated efficiency of the tankless unit, often 80-90% for newer gas models.

Using these key criteria, you can determine the optimal BTU or kW capacity. Gas tankless systems are rated in BTUs, while electric models use kilowatt ratings. Your plumbing professional can help select the appropriate size unit.

How much does an instant hot water system cost?

Purchasing and installing a tankless water heater system represents a significant upfront investment compared to a conventional storage tank unit. However, the long-term savings can offset much of the initial cost. Typical costs include:

• Tankless water heater unit – $600 – $1500 depending on size, fuel type, features
• Professional installation – $500 – $2000 depending on complexity
• Necessary electrical upgrades – $200 – $800 if needed for an electric unit
• Venting – $100 – $500 for gas systems

Total installed costs often range from $1500 – $4000. While more expensive than a basic $500 conventional water heater, keep in mind the tankless system can save $100 or more in energy costs each year over its 20+ year lifespan. Maintenance costs are also lower without a tank that can corrode and leak over time.

How difficult is it to install an instant hot water system?

Proper installation is essential for a tankless water heater to function safely and efficiently. For this reason, professional installation is strongly recommended over a DIY project. The complexity can vary depending on your home’s setup:

• Gas tankless units require specialized venting to safely remove exhaust gases. Proper sizing, routing, and sealing of vent materials is critical.
• Electric systems have high voltage and amperage needs. Electrical service and circuitry may need upgrading to support the unit.
• Both gas and electric systems should have strainers and filters installed to protect internal components.
• The entire hot water delivery system, including incoming cold water and outgoing hot water lines, needs to be taken into account.

With specialized tools, parts, and knowledge, professional plumbers and electricians can properly handle the nuances of installing tankless water heaters. This helps ensure optimal performance and safety.

How can I determine the right location for an instant hot water system?

Choosing the ideal location is a key consideration when installing a tankless water heating system. Here are some factors to keep in mind when determining the best location:

• Venting route – Gas-fired models require proper exhaust venting. Locate the unit considering the safest, most direct venting path outdoors.
• Water lines – Position the unit close to incoming cold and outgoing hot water lines to minimize lag time.
• Electricity – Place electric tankless units where adequate electrical service is available or can be upgraded.
• Indoors versus outdoors – Outdoor models avoid the need to condition vented air but require weatherproof enclosures.
• Convenience – Locate the system where it is reasonably accessible for future maintenance and service needs.

With good access to water lines, electricity, and venting routes, tankless water heaters can be installed in basements, utility rooms, or on outside walls.

What kind of maintenance is required for tankless water heaters?

Tankless water heating systems require less maintenance than traditional tank heaters but still need regular care for maximum performance and lifespan:

• Inspect and flush heat exchanger – Annually remove mineral deposits inside the heat exchanger. A professional should handle any disassembly.
• Check and change water filter – Replace any inlet water filters annually or as needed to prevent scale buildup.
• Inspect venting – Verify exhaust vent pipes are intact and sealed. Make any necessary repairs.
• Check electrical connections – Confirm all wiring is tight and undamaged. Replace any deteriorated wires.
• Test operation – Run the system annually making sure all components work properly and safely.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is highly recommended. Tankless systems will provide decades of reliable hot water with proper care.

Conclusion

Installing a tankless water heater system is the ideal way to get instant endless hot water directly from your sink faucet. Though tankless heaters involve a larger upfront investment, they can pay back that cost through increased efficiency and lower energy bills over time. With proper sizing and professional installation tailored to your household needs, an instant hot water system eliminates annoying waits for heated water and provides maximum convenience in the kitchen or bath.