Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for Your Home?
The Hot Water Revolution in the Suncoast
Are you tired of running out of hot water halfway through a shower—or cringing at your utility bill after running the dishwasher and washing machine? For many homeowners in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, there’s a better solution than the traditional water tank that’s been humming away in your garage for decades.
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are changing the game in Florida homes. They heat water only when you need it—providing an endless supply without the standby energy waste of traditional tanks.
At Griggs Plumbing, your Sarasota tankless water heater installation experts, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade to this energy-efficient, space-saving technology. But before you decide to make the switch, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the challenges. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to decide whether a tankless water heater installation in Sarasota or Bradenton is the right choice for your home.
Tankless Water Heaters: The Honest Pros and Cons
Before you schedule a professional tankless water heater installation, it’s worth exploring what makes these systems so appealing—and where they might not be the perfect fit.
The Proven Benefits (Why People Switch)
Unlimited Hot Water
With a tankless unit, you’ll never run out of hot water. These systems heat water as it flows through the unit, meaning your family can shower, do laundry, and run the dishwasher simultaneously without any drop in temperature.
Energy Efficiency and Savings
Traditional tanks constantly heat and reheat stored water, wasting energy even when you’re not using it. Tankless units activate only when you turn on a hot water tap, cutting energy use and lowering your monthly utility bills. In sunny Florida, where air conditioning already drives up costs, every bit of efficiency helps.
Longevity and Space Savings
Tankless models typically last 20 years or more, compared to 8–12 years for conventional tanks. Plus, their compact wall-mounted design frees up valuable space in your garage or utility closet—a real bonus in homes where every square foot counts.
The Disadvantages (What Homeowners Should Consider)
Higher Initial Cost
Tankless systems do cost more upfront, both for the unit and the installation. However, many homeowners find that the energy savings and extended lifespan make the investment worthwhile over time.
Retrofit and Installation Complexity
If you’re switching from a standard tank, installation may require gas line or electrical panel upgrades, as well as new venting. These steps are essential for safety and efficiency, but they do add to the total project cost.
Hot Water Lag Time
Tankless systems heat water on demand, so you might wait a few extra seconds for hot water to reach distant fixtures. Installing a recirculation pump can help minimize this delay.
Hard Water Maintenance (Sarasota Note)
Our local Sarasota-Bradenton area has hard water, which can cause mineral buildup inside tankless systems. Regular professional maintenance—like annual flushing—keeps your system efficient and extends its lifespan.
Choosing Your Power Source: Gas vs. Electric Tankless
When planning your tankless water heater installation in Sarasota, choosing between gas and electric models is one of the most important decisions.
Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost than gas models
- Easier installation (no gas lines or complex venting)
- Ideal for smaller homes, condos, or point-of-use setups (like one bathroom or kitchen sink)
Cons:
- Requires significant electrical capacity—often a panel upgrade
- May not provide enough flow for large households with simultaneous hot water needs
- Slightly slower to heat than gas models
Gas Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
- Higher heating capacity, ideal for large families or full-home systems
- Typically lower long-term operating costs per BTU than electric models
- Fast, consistent hot water even under heavy demand
Cons:
- Higher purchase and installation cost
- Requires dedicated gas lines and safe venting systems
If your home already uses natural gas, a gas tankless system is often the best value. For all-electric homes or smaller spaces, an electric model might be the better fit.
The Installation Reality: What to Expect with Griggs Plumbing
So, what actually happens when you move forward with a tankless water heater installation in Bradenton or Sarasota?
Step 1: Consultation & Sizing
Our team starts by assessing your home’s hot water demands—how many fixtures, appliances, and family members you have—and evaluating your existing plumbing, electrical, or gas systems. Proper sizing (measured in gallons per minute, or GPM) ensures consistent performance.
Step 2: Removal of the Old Tank
We’ll drain and safely remove your old water heater, freeing up valuable space and responsibly disposing of the unit.
Step 3: Upgrading Connections
This step varies based on the type of system:
- Gas Units: We may upgrade your gas line and install new venting for safe operation.
- Electric Units: We’ll ensure your electrical system can handle the load, making panel upgrades if needed.
Step 4: Professional Installation & Testing
Our licensed plumbers handle all aspects of the setup—connecting water, gas, or electrical lines, ensuring venting is safe, and testing for performance and leaks.
Step 5: Permitting & Final Inspection
We manage all necessary Sarasota and Bradenton permits and coordinate inspections to ensure your installation meets local codes and safety standards.
Why Choose Griggs Plumbing for Your Tankless Upgrade
When it comes to something as essential as your home’s hot water, you want an experienced, trustworthy partner.
Local Experts Since 1924
Griggs Plumbing has served Sarasota-Bradenton homeowners for nearly a century. We know the regional water conditions, building codes, and climate demands that affect your plumbing systems.
Certified, Licensed, and Insured Professionals
Our technicians are highly trained to install both gas and electric tankless systems safely and efficiently. With Griggs, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your installation is done right—the first time.
Maintenance and Support You Can Count On
Beyond installation, we offer ongoing service and maintenance to keep your tankless system running like new. Regular flushing helps combat mineral buildup and maintain efficiency in our hard-water region. Learn more about our Assurance Membership maintenance plan.
Conclusion: Is a Tankless System Right for You?
A tankless water heater installation is a smart, energy-efficient upgrade for many Florida homeowners—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all decision. Factors such as home size, water usage habits, and your existing infrastructure play a significant role.
To make the best decision, get expert guidance from Griggs Plumbing, your Bradenton and Sarasota tankless water heater installation experts.
Ready to learn whether going tankless is right for your home?
Schedule your FREE tankless water heater consultation with Griggs Plumbing today and enjoy endless hot water, lower energy bills, and more space in your home.
Learn more about the Tankless Water Heater Services we offer.
