Originally Posted by Eric Smith
Tankless have been used for years overseas we're just behind the game as usual.
I wouldn't say that we are "behind the game". Small houses or apartments overseas do not have the room for a traditional water heater, so a tankless water heater is ideal.
That being said, years from now, when your tankless needs parts, chances are nobody local will have them. Yes, they do (usually) save a small amount of energy verses a traditional water heater, but you may not get it back from the initial cost.
They do take longer to supply hot water, as the water has to go through the entire system before it gets hot, but if you want an unlimited supply of hot water, it's the way to go.
And yes, I've had a tankless water heater since 2005 when I built my house. Actually, about three of them. They don't last as long as their warranty, despite flushing out the minerals.