For decades, the trusty tank-style water heater has been a fixture in our utility rooms—bulky, reliable, and always keeping 40 or 50 gallons of water hot and ready. But in recent years, a sleek, modern alternative has been gaining popularity: the tankless water heater.
These compact, wall-mounted units promise endless hot water and energy savings. But the big question for us here in Cochrane is: how do they perform in a demanding Alberta climate?
A tankless water heater can be a fantastic upgrade, but it’s not the right choice for every home. At Scott’s Plumbing, we believe in making informed decisions. Here’s an honest look at the pros and cons.
The “Pros”: Why Homeowners Love Tankless Water Heaters
It’s easy to see the appeal. Tankless technology offers some significant advantages over a traditional tank.
- Endless Hot Water: This is the number one benefit. Because a tankless unit heats water on demand as you need it, you can’t “run out.” You can run back-to-back showers, do laundry, and fill a large soaker tub without waiting for a tank to recover.
- Energy Efficiency & Lower Bills: A traditional tank heater constantly burns fuel to keep its water hot, 24/7. This is called “standby heat loss.” A tankless unit only uses energy when you turn on a hot water tap, which can lead to energy savings of 20-30% on your water heating costs.
- Major Space Savings: These compact units are about the size of a suitcase and mount directly to the wall, freeing up valuable floor space that was once occupied by a large tank.
- Longer Lifespan: A well-maintained tankless water heater can last 20 years or more—nearly double the 8-12 year lifespan of a typical tank heater, which eventually succumbs to rust and corrosion.
[Image showing a compact, wall-mounted tankless water heater next to an old, large tank-style heater.]
The “Cons”: The Realities of a Tankless System in Alberta
This is where our unique climate comes into play. The challenges of a tankless system are more pronounced here than in warmer parts of the country.
- The Cold Groundwater Challenge: In the middle of a Cochrane winter, the water entering our homes from the main line can be near freezing (around 4-5°C). A tankless heater has to work incredibly hard to raise that water to a comfortable shower temperature of 45°C. This massive temperature rise leads to a reduced flow rate.
- What this means: To get the water hot enough, the unit must slow down the flow of water passing through it. In winter, a unit that isn’t sized properly for our climate may not be able to supply enough hot water for a shower and a dishwasher to run at the same time. Correct sizing is absolutely critical.
- Higher Upfront Cost: There’s no sugarcoating it—the purchase price and installation cost of a tankless water heater are significantly higher than a conventional tank. Installation can also be more complex, sometimes requiring larger gas lines or new venting systems.
- A Slight Delay for Hot Water: Unlike a tank that has hot water waiting, a tankless unit needs a few seconds to fire up and begin heating. This can result in a short burst of cold water when you first turn on the tap, often called the “cold water sandwich.”
- Maintenance is Not Optional: Especially with Alberta’s hard water, tankless heaters require an annual descaling service to remove mineral buildup. Forgetting this maintenance will reduce efficiency and can lead to premature failure.
So, Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?
The decision comes down to your family’s needs, your home, and your budget.
- A tankless heater might be a great fit if: You have a large family, frequently run out of hot water, value long-term energy savings, and have the budget for the initial investment.
- A traditional tank may still be the better choice if: You are on a tighter budget, have a smaller household with moderate hot water needs, or prefer a simpler, lower-maintenance system.
There is no single “best” answer. Tankless water heaters are an excellent technology, but their effectiveness in our region depends entirely on proper sizing, professional installation, and a commitment to maintenance.
Considering an upgrade? Contact Scott’s Plumbing today. We’ll provide an honest, expert assessment of your home’s needs and help you decide which water heating solution is the perfect fit for your family and your Cochrane home.