Propane Tankless Water Heaters – Go Green and Save Money

New York Propane Gas Association

New York Propane Gas Association
Press Release
For more information, contact
Barbara Roach
nypga@localnet.com
518.383.3823

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Propane Tankless Water Heaters
Go Green and Save Money

Albany, NY – March 19, 2009 – In a world where going “green” is top-of-mind, it’s surprising to
discover that many homeowners are unaware of a proven way to save energy, water and
money. By installing propane-powered tankless water heaters, consumers can save money—
up to half in operating costs over other energy sources—and help the environment at the
same time. There are even tax credits and rebates available to help pay for the equipment.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating water in a typical American home accounts
for more than 20 percent of the household’s total energy use. Even when faucets are not in use,
traditional hot water storage tanks are constantly raising and maintaining the standing water’s
temperature. “The problem with conventional water heaters is the ‘stand-by’ heat loss, which
occurs when the tank continues to reheat unused water,” says Barbara Roach, executive director
of the New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA). “This wastes even more energy as it cycles
on-and-off just to keep hot water on tap,” she added.

Tankless water heaters reduce operating costs and never run out of hot water because they
heat water as you need it instead of storing it in a tank. Most propane tankless systems
distribute between five and ten gallons of hot water per minute, so homeowners can be
assured an endless supply of hot water. Tankless water heaters are also incredible space
savers in the home, taking up less square footage than traditional water heaters.
Propane tankless water heaters also emit less carbon than electric water heaters, another
advantage to using a propane water heater. Since they only operate when hot water is needed,
they preserve valuable energy resources and the environment.

Additionally, tankless water heaters are much less expensive to own over their lifetime. Because
the unit lacks a tank, the opportunity for corrosion is much less. That means the life expectancy is
approximately 20 years, as opposed to 10–15 years for a tank water heater. Based on Energy
Guide values from the Department of Energy, replacing a standard 50-gallon electric water heater
with a propane tankless water heater can reduce annual energy costs by more than 60 percent, or
$274, annually for a family of four using an estimated 2,000 gallons of hot water per month.

In addition to a federal tax credit that is available to homeowners that install an Energy Star rated
tankless water heater in 2009, there are a limited number of $300 rebates available through
NYPGA to offset the initial cost of installing sponsored water heaters and high efficiency
furnace/boilers. For more information about tankless water heaters and the current rebate
available, as well as other innovative energy solutions that propane can provide, visit the New
York Propane Gas Association at www.nypropane.com.

About the New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA)
NYPGA is a member-focused trade organization providing services that communicate, educate,
and promote the propane industry in New York. The association was formed in 1948 to offer
opportunities for training and networking with peers, and to aid with legislative issues that
contribute to operating a safe and successful industry.

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