The skinny on tankless water heaters

We're going to need a new one within the next few years and I've been hearing more about tankless lately.

We are actually pretty good candidates for it, as we have a 1 story house and the current heater is in the basement. The house isn't that large.

I found this: 9 best practices for choosing & installing a tankless water heater.

Although it sounds as though there is some resistance borne of ignorance, I wonder how they actually are once you're using them.

People have mentioned them here but I didn't pay much attention.

Anyone have some pros and cons of these? Thanks!

Re: The skinny on tankless water heaters

And of course, the RT's give me a lot of answers!

This thread in particular is helpful, from 2005.

If anyone wasn't around or didn't answer that thread, let me know your opinion.

Re: The skinny on tankless water heaters

We had one installed in our hi-ranch last June. I love it about 90%

1. Energy-saving are a huge plus. You only use energy to heat the hot water when you use it. and of course, space saving issues.

2. That said, sometimes it takes a minute or two to get the hot water going. Nothing like standing cold and naked waiting for your shower to get warm first thing in the morning

3. Speaking of showers, endless supply of hot water. And no fluctuations if another appliance is using it too (like the washing machine or dishwasher). We got a 6 gpm one, and never have issues with showers (we have 3 in the house, but have only used 2 at the same time), dishwasher, washing machine, etc.

4. In my kitchen sink, I have a 1-handle faucet that rotates back and forth and I have to admit that while I am doing dishes, it doesn't always catch that perfect spot to get warm water. It's always ice cold or super hot.... That's the only thing I complain about, DH says once he replaces the faucet, that should fix itself.

We have natural gas and got a Bosch 6 gpm one. Top of the line, but we have a 2-level house and 2 kids. Lots of water use. Let me know if you have any other questions.

ETA: This is the one we have. Found it in my old RP...

Bosch AquaStar

Message edited 1/28/2008 12:32:34 PM.