Tankless water heaters—also known as on-demand water heaters—are quickly becoming the hot new trend in home improvement. They’re sleek, energy-efficient, and promise endless hot water. But before you rip out your old tank and go tankless, there are a few things that most plumbers don’t tell you—but we will.
If you’re considering a tankless water heater installation Surrey, BC, or just doing research, this honest guide from Guru Plumbing & Contracting will give you the insider perspective you won’t find in brochures or basic sales pitches.
It’s Not “Instant” Hot Water (But That’s Not a Dealbreaker)
One of the biggest misconceptions is that tankless = instant. In reality, it takes a few seconds for the unit to heat the water and send it through your plumbing system, just like with a traditional tank. The difference? You’ll never run out once it starts flowing.
Not All Homes Are Tankless-Ready
Water heaters demand more upfront power, whether it’s gas or electricity. If your home has an older electrical panel or undersized gas lines, you might need an upgrade, costing extra time and money.
This is especially important for older homes in Surrey and Greater Vancouver, where infrastructure updates may be necessary. Experienced plumbing contractors Surrey can assess your setup and help you budget for potential upgrades.
You’ll Need Regular Maintenance—Yes, Even for “Low Maintenance” Units
Manufacturers love to advertise systems as “low maintenance,” but here’s the truth: descaling is critical, especially in areas with hard water. If you skip annual maintenance, you’re inviting mineral buildup and a shorter unit lifespan.
Pro tip : Schedule a yearly flush with a licensed technician. It’s a small cost that protects your investment and is often offered by reputable plumbing companies Surrey as part of an annual maintenance package.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Some homeowners buy the cheapest unit, thinking it will serve their entire home, only to find out it can’t handle multiple simultaneous showers. Your water demand (number of bathrooms, appliances, etc.) must match your unit’s GPM (gallons per minute) rating.
Let a licensed plumber perform a hot water usage audit before installation.
Improper Installation Can Void Your Warranty
Many tankless systems come with generous warranties, but they have fine print. If your system isn’t installed by a certified water heater installer or local codes aren’t followed, your warranty may not be honored.
Our technicians are fully licensed and trained in all major tankless brands, ensuring your unit is installed to code and with full warranty coverage. We also provide fast, reliable service for emergency plumbing Surrey, so you’re covered even if something goes wrong unexpectedly.
The Upfront Cost Is Higher—But There’s a Catch
Yes, the initial price tag is higher than a traditional tank system. But with lower energy bills, longer lifespan, and space-saving design, you’ll often make up the difference over time, especially if you plan to stay in your home for the long haul.
Think of it like buying a hybrid car—it costs more at first, but the savings add up.
Not All Tankless Brands Are Created Equal
Some plumbers push specific brands because of kickbacks or existing dealer contracts, not necessarily because it’s the best fit for your home. At Guru Plumbing, we believe in brand-neutral recommendations based on performance, efficiency, and your home’s specific needs.
We commonly work with trusted brands like Navien, Rinnai, Noritz, and Bosch—but we’ll guide you based on facts, not sales incentives.
Water heaters can be a smart, energy-efficient upgrade—but only if you go in with the right expectations and the right team on your side.
We’re not here to sell you a unit—we’re here to build long-term trust. We’ll assess your home, your usage, and your goals to recommend the best system for your lifestyle, not just your wallet.
Ready to explore if tankless is right for you? Contact Guru Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for a no-obligation consultation and let our licensed Surrey-based technicians give you the full picture—no surprises, no upsells, just expert guidance.
