What Is a Point-of-Use Water Heater?

Imagine being tired after a long day and looking forward to a lengthy hot shower. Instead of warm water, the tap bursts forth with cold, and it seems to take forever for the water to heat up. This is where a point-of-use water heater helps.

This May Also Interest You: Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth the Cost?

But what is a point-of-use water heater? Unlike a traditional tank water heater that provides water for the entire home, these small devices heat water for a specific location, such as a washing machine or shower. Installed close to the fixture, the point-of-use water heater reduces wait times for hot water.

What Is a Point-of-Use Water Heater?

So what is a point-of-use water heater and why are they useful? Point-of-use water heaters work by heating water near where it’s being used. The heated water doesn’t travel through an extensive network of pipes, so it doesn't take as long to reach where it’s needed, thus eliminating wait times. Therefore, less cold water is wasted waiting on the temperature to rise. These fixtures come in a variety of styles, including electric, mini and tankless water heaters, which makes it possible to choose the best one to fit individual needs.

How Do Point-of-Use Water Heaters Work?

Depending on the type of system, these water heaters provide hot water in different ways. There are two main types of systems.

Point-of-Use Electric Water Heaters

These mini water heaters use electricity to generate heat by energizing metal heating elements that extend into the side wall of the tank. Water stored inside the tank heats to the desired temperature, monitored by an external thermostat. Storage capacity typically ranges from 3 to 7 gallons, making them ideal for small applications.

Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heaters

POU tankless systems are compact and fit easily in a small cabinet or under the sink. They come in different power ratings, which determine the output. Unlike tank systems that heat water and store it for later use, tankless systems heat water when needed. Tankless systems are more energy-efficient to help lower utility bills but require a higher initial investment.

Where to Install a POU Water Heater

POU water heaters are typically installed as close to fixtures as possible, and because they have a small footprint, they fit in places where a central water heater isn’t possible.

• Showers and baths.

  POU water heaters for showers and baths are installed inside a panel close to bath and shower faucets. This ensures a steady hot water supply without waiting for lengthy heating times.

• Bathroom or kitchen sinks.

  Sink POU water heaters are installed under the sink and provide hot water for washing dishes or cleaning hands.

• Remote buildings.

  Home additions and detached garages aren’t always connected to the central water heating system. POU water heaters ensure these extra areas have access to hot water without installing long plumbing lines.

What Are the Pros and Cons of POU Water Heaters?

Whether you're looking to reduce water waste or you need quick response times when you turn on the hot water, a point-of-use water heater can help. Weighing the following pros and cons can be helpful for homeowners trying to decide whether a POU water heater makes sense.

Pros

• Saves on utility and water costs

• Provides instant hot water

• Space-saving design

• Delivers hot water where needed

Cons

• Limited use

• Higher up-front costs

• Lack of hot water during power outages

When you need hot water, the last thing you want to do is wait for the water temperature to heat up. Point-of-use water heaters are a versatile and energy-efficient option for providing hot water to specific areas in your home. However, it's important to evaluate your home's water usage before deciding between a traditional hot water heater and a point-of-use system.