Upgrading your home’s water heater is a big decision. If you’re looking for a modern, energy-efficient water heater upgrade, you may be wondering: Are tankless water heaters good for my home? The answer depends on your home’s needs, usage habits, and budget.
At A&R Mechanical, we help Amarillo homeowners make informed choices by weighing the pros and cons of tankless water heaters. Here’s what you should know before making the switch.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Traditional water heaters store a large amount of water in a tank and heat it continuously, even when not in use. In contrast, tankless systems—also called on-demand water heaters—heat water only when you need it.
When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows through a heat exchanger in the unit, where it’s quickly heated by either a gas burner or electric element. The result? Endless hot water without the standby energy loss of traditional systems.
Are Tankless Water Heaters Gas or Electric?
The answer is both—models are available in gas and electric versions. The best option often depends on your home’s current infrastructure, utility rates, and efficiency goals.
The Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
Endless Hot Water
Because they heat water on demand, tankless units deliver a continuous supply of hot water. This is a major benefit for larger households or homes with high hot water usage, like back-to-back showers or running the dishwasher and laundry at the same time.
Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters avoid the energy waste of constantly heating water in a storage tank. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day can save 24%–34% on energy costs.
Space Saving
These units are compact and wall-mounted, freeing up space in utility rooms, closets, or garages. For smaller homes or those looking to maximize usable square footage, a tankless heater is a great option.
Longer Lifespan
On average, tankless water heaters last 20 years or more—almost double the lifespan of traditional tank systems. With proper maintenance, that’s a long-term investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency.
The Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Higher Upfront Cost
The most significant drawback is the initial cost. Tankless water heaters can be more expensive to purchase and install than traditional models, especially if plumbing or electrical upgrades are needed.
Limited Output for Simultaneous Use
While tankless units provide unlimited hot water, their flow rate can be limited. In very large households, running multiple hot water appliances at once may reduce water pressure or require the installation of multiple units.
Retrofitting Challenges
If you’re replacing a tank-style heater with a tankless system, modifications may be necessary—especially for gas models, which may need larger gas lines or venting adjustments. These upgrades can add to the overall cost.
Are Tankless Water Heaters Good for Amarillo Homes?
In many cases, yes! A tankless system is especially attractive in Amarillo homes where energy efficiency and space-saving solutions are priorities. If your household uses moderate amounts of hot water or you’re building a new home, tankless technology is definitely worth considering.
However, for larger homes or those with multiple bathrooms, you may need to invest in a higher-capacity model—or even install more than one unit—to meet demand effectively.
Still Not Sure? Let A&R Mechanical Help
Choosing the right water heater isn’t just about equipment—it’s about your lifestyle, budget, and home setup. If you’re wondering how tankless water heaters work or whether a gas or electric model is best, our team is here to help you weigh the pros and cons of tankless water heaters based on your unique needs.
A&R Mechanical offers 24/7 service and expert water heater installation across Amarillo. We’ll evaluate your current system, answer your questions, and help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective water heater for your home.
Contact A&R Mechanical today to schedule your estimate and explore whether a tankless water heater is right for your home!
