Plumbing Services Calgary | In a city like Calgary, where winters are long and chilly, having reliable hot water is more than just a comfort—it’s a necessity. Traditional water heaters have long been the go-to for homeowners, but an increasing number of Calgary residents are making the switch to tankless water heaters, and for good reason. These modern systems provide hot water on demand, take up less space, and can lead to significant savings on your utility bills.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into why switching to a tankless water heater can be a smart move, especially in a climate like Calgary’s. We’ll cover everything from energy efficiency to environmental impact and help you decide if a tankless system is right for your home.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit where it’s heated by either a gas burner or an electric element. Because of this, tankless systems can deliver a constant supply of hot water—no more running out during long showers or back-to-back laundry loads.
Energy Efficiency That Makes a Difference
One of the biggest advantages of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. According to Natural Resources Canada, tankless units are generally more efficient than traditional storage tank models, especially for homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day.
How It Saves Energy:
- No standby heat loss: Unlike tank heaters that constantly keep water warm, tankless heaters only heat water when you need it.
- Precise temperature control: Many models allow for accurate temperature settings, which prevents overheating and wasted energy.
- High-efficiency ratings: Modern tankless models often boast Energy Factor (EF) ratings above 0.90, making them eligible for various rebates and incentives in Alberta.
Space-Saving and Sleek Design
Calgary homes, particularly those in older neighborhoods or compact developments, don’t always offer ample utility space. Tankless water heaters are wall-mounted and significantly smaller than their tank counterparts. This frees up valuable floor space and allows for more flexible installation locations, such as closets or even exterior walls with proper insulation.
Endless Hot Water, Even in Cold Weather
Calgary winters can dip well below freezing, and hot water demand often increases during these months. Traditional water heaters can struggle to keep up, especially if multiple appliances are running. Tankless systems, on the other hand, provide continuous hot water so your family never has to worry about cold showers in the middle of February.
Pro Tip:
If your home frequently uses hot water in multiple areas at once (e.g., shower + laundry + dishwasher), consider a whole-home tankless system or install multiple smaller units to serve different zones.
Long-Term Cost Savings
Although the initial cost of a tankless water heater is higher than that of a traditional tank unit, the long-term savings can be substantial:
- Lower energy bills: Reduced energy consumption translates to lower monthly utility costs.
- Fewer replacements: Tankless systems often last 20 years or more, compared to 10–15 years for tank models.
- Reduced repair costs: Fewer components mean less chance of mechanical failure, especially with proper maintenance.
According to estimates, Calgary homeowners can save between $80 and $100 per year in energy costs when switching to a high-efficiency tankless model.
Environmentally Friendly Choice
Making greener home choices is a growing priority for many in Calgary. Tankless water heaters contribute to a lower carbon footprint by reducing energy waste and minimizing the materials needed for frequent replacements.
Environmental Perks:
- Reduced CO2 emissions
- Less landfill waste
- Lower natural gas or electricity usage
If you’re pursuing a more eco-conscious lifestyle, upgrading to a tankless water heater is a step in the right direction.
Easier Maintenance and Cleaner Water
Because they don’t store water, tankless heaters are less prone to rust and sediment buildup, which can be common in tank-based systems. This results in cleaner, better-smelling water and reduces the need for frequent tank flushing.
Maintenance Tip:
In Calgary’s hard water conditions, it’s smart to install a descaling system or flush your tankless unit annually to remove mineral buildup and maintain performance.
Ideal for Modern Calgary Homes
Whether you’re renovating an older property in Beltline or building new in Mahogany, tankless water heaters blend seamlessly with modern home designs and smart home systems. Many models now feature Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling you to monitor usage, set temperature schedules, and receive maintenance alerts from your smartphone.
When Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?
While tankless heaters offer numerous benefits, they’re not ideal for every household. Here are a few considerations:
Tankless is a Good Fit If:
- You want to reduce energy usage and save on utility bills.
- Your household frequently runs out of hot water.
- You have limited space for appliances.
- You’re planning a renovation or building a new home.
Tank-Based Might Be Better If:
- Your hot water demand is extremely high (e.g., large families).
- You’re on a tight budget and need the lowest upfront cost.
- You need hot water during power outages (gas tank models can sometimes still operate).
Professional Installation Matters
Tankless water heater installation is not a DIY project. It requires:
- Proper gas line sizing or electric capacity upgrades.
- Knowledge of local plumbing codes.
- Professional venting for indoor units.
Choosing an experienced provider like What The Flush Plumbing Services ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and up to code—which is especially important in Alberta’s regulated plumbing landscape.
And of course, for those looking for plumbing services Calgary can rely on, What The Flush Plumbing Services offers tailored solutions for tankless upgrades, maintenance, and everything in between.
Final Thoughts
Making the switch to a tankless water heater is an investment in comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. For Calgary homeowners navigating freezing winters and rising energy costs, it’s a smart solution that pays off in more ways than one. Whether you’re upgrading an older system or planning a new installation, now is the perfect time to explore your tankless options.