FortisBC Water Heater Rebates

Pros of a tankless water heater

• On average, tankless water heaters use 46% less energy than hot water tanks (according to a recent CMHC study). This can save you up to $200 per year on water heating costs.

• Tankless water heaters never run out of hot water. Units are available that can supply 2 or more outputs (showers, washing machines, taps, etc.) at a time.

• Last about twice as long as a hot water tank (expected to last 15+ years)

• Take up less space than a hot water tank

• Are made of materials such as copper or stainless steel that will not rust and potentially compromise water quality.

• Reduced risk of water damage (which is now the number one cause of home insurance claims). Tankless systems do not have a large store of hot water that will inevitably leak. Leaks on hot water tanks over 8 years old may not be covered by your home insurance.

Cons of a tankless water heater

• High efficiency tankless water heaters start at around $5800. This is for a unit that is large enough to provide enough hot water for up to two outlets. They are more expensive to install due to the higher cost of the unit and because new venting, gas and electric lines, water lines, and (for condensing tankless water heaters) drainage will have to be installed.

• Longer start-up delays. A tankless water heater usually takes at least 10 seconds longer than a hot water tank to supply hot water to a tap. “Hybrid water heaters”, which are tankless units with a small storage tank, reduce this problem.

• Require more maintenance than a hot water tank.

See our tankless water heaters page to learn more about these systems.

To schedule a quote on a tankless water heater, call 604 GOOD GUY (604 466 3489) or use our online form.