Pros and Cons of Point-of-Use Water Heaters

Are you tired of running out of hot water mid-shower or waiting ages for your sink water to warm up? A point-of-use water heater may be able to help.

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This compact heating system provides instant hot water when and where you need it. Installation of these systems in your house can eliminate the risk of running out of hot water.

How Do Point-of-Use Water Heaters Work?

Point-of-use water heaters, also referred to as POU water heaters, provide hot water on demand. They're installed very close to the faucet, such as under the sink. These compact systems heat water as needed rather than holding the heated water in a tank until you need it.

Some homeowners place these mini water heater units at specific points in the home, such as near the shower or tub. With this type of installation, you still maintain a central water heater system that carries hot water throughout the house. POU water heaters complement your center system and efficiency.

Depending on your situation, you may be able to eliminate the need for a central water heater system by using POU units. This strategy requires the installation of a point-of-use cabinet water heater near every faucet in the house, including sinks, showers, tubs and washing machines.

What Are the Pros and Cons of POU Water Heaters?

If you’re considering installing POU water heaters in your home, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of these systems.

Advantages of POU Water Heaters

Point-of-use water heaters offer numerous benefits, including:

• On-demand hot water.

  Strategic installation of POU water heaters, such as a point-of-use water heater for showers, can ensure you never run out of hot water. This is a great benefit your family will thank you for later.

• Improved energy efficiency.

  With a central water heater system, hot water tends to lose heat as it travels through the pipes to the faucet. An instant water heater system avoids this issue by heating the water very close to the faucet location.

• Compact size.

  These mini water heaters take up very little space, allowing you to place them almost anywhere, such as under a cabinet or in a corner of a closet.

• Ideal temperatures.

  Some POU water heater systems allow you to set the temperature for every unit. This level of customization gives you the ability to set the ideal temperature for every faucet in your home.

Disadvantages of POU Water Heaters

There are also some disadvantages you should consider before opting for a POU water heater system.

• Initial costs.

  If you’re installing more than one POU water heater, it’s important to understand that you’ll incur a separate unit and installation fee for each heater you purchase. These initial costs can start to add up depending on how many units you plan to install.

• Increased maintenance.

  As with all appliances in your home, POU water heaters require regular maintenance. If you have multiple water heaters, each unit must be maintained for peak performance. The good news is that maintenance and repair costs per unit tend to be less expensive than those for a central water heater system.

• Inconsistent water temperature.

  If the POU water heater is installed incorrectly or you don’t install enough units to cover demand, you may experience inconsistent water temperature. For example, if you use one compact water heater unit to accommodate your sink, shower and washing machine, it may not be able to keep up with your hot water demands when using all three simultaneously.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a POU Water Heater

There are a few things you'll want to consider before making the switch to a point-of-use water heater.

Type of Water Heater

There are two main types of POU water heaters: electric and gas. Point-of-use electric water heater systems tend to be less expensive but require more energy to operate. This can result in higher energy costs. You should also consider whether you have gas or electricity available at the locations where you want to install the heater.

Unit Size

It’s important to purchase the right size POU water heater. Speak to a professional plumber to discuss your hot water usage demands. They can help you create a strategic plan for placing the right number of point-of-service water heater units at the ideal locations.

A point-of-service water heater system can ensure your family has access to hot water any time of the day or night. Before you choose this option, talk to a professional plumber to explore your options and ensure you purchase the right type and size of POU water heater.