Electric Tankless Water Heater Repair and Replacement in Los Angeles
Electric Tankless Water Heaters – What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Looking to go tankless with your water heating system? Electric tankless water heaters offer a space-saving and on-demand solution for hot water—but are they the right fit for your home or business?
At Robby’s Rooter, Inc., we specialize in water heating systems across Los Angeles and Southern California, and we believe in helping our clients make informed decisions. While electric tankless units can be convenient for certain applications, they’re not always the most efficient or cost-effective choice—especially for larger homes or commercial properties.
What Is an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
An electric tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand electric water heater, heats water only when you need it—eliminating the need for a storage tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows through an electric heating element and is heated instantly before reaching your faucet.
Benefits of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Electric tankless water heaters are sometimes the right fit for:
✅ Small Homes & Apartments – Ideal for smaller living spaces with limited hot water demand.
✅ Point-of-Use Applications – Great for remote bathrooms, garages, pool houses, or studio ADUs.
✅ Space Saving – Compact wall-mounted units save significant space compared to traditional tanks.
✅ No Gas Line Required – Perfect for properties without access to natural gas or propane.
✅ Lower Initial Cost – Typically less expensive to purchase and install than gas tankless units.
Limitations to Consider
Despite the benefits, electric tankless water heaters are not the most energy-efficient option for many Southern California homes.
⚠️ High Electrical Demand – These units often require significant amperage (100–150 amps), which may need a costly electrical panel upgrade.
⚠️ Limited Flow Rate – May not be able to support multiple showers or appliances running at the same time.
⚠️ Higher Utility Costs – Electricity is more expensive than natural gas in most areas, leading to higher operational costs over time.
⚠️ Not Ideal for Larger Homes – Struggle to keep up with whole-home demand in multi-bathroom households.
⚠️ Longer Payback Period – Lower upfront cost, but less savings on utility bills in the long run compared to high-efficiency gas tankless systems.
Best Use Cases for Electric Tankless Units
Studio Apartments
RV or Tiny Homes
Point-of-use at a single sink or shower
Homes where gas is not available or permitted
Properties in warmer climates with lower incoming groundwater temperatures
Our Honest Take as Plumbing Professionals
We’ve installed hundreds of water heating systems across Los Angeles, and in most cases, we recommend high-efficiency gas tankless or heat pump water heaters instead of electric tankless units. That said, we understand that every property is unique—and in specific situations, an electric tankless unit might be the perfect solution.
Need Help Choosing the Right Water Heater?
If you're unsure what system makes the most sense for your home or commercial property, we’re here to help. At Robby’s Rooter, Inc., we’ll assess your usage, layout, and energy infrastructure to recommend the best solution—whether it's electric, gas, or a hybrid system.
Call or email us today or schedule a consultation for expert water heater recommendations and professional installation in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.