If you’ve been searching for information about upgrading your home’s hot water system, you may be wondering whether it’s time for an upgrade. Many homeowners in the River Valley are discovering the benefits of modern tankless systems. In fact, there are several clear signs it’s time to switch to a tankless water heater, especially if your current system struggles to keep up. Riverside Comfort Care proudly provides professional water heater services across Fort Smith, Van Buren, and surrounding Arkansas communities — helping homeowners enjoy endless hot water, improved efficiency, and long-lasting performance.
Tankless water heaters have been shown to reduce energy waste because they heat water on demand instead of storing it. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that tankless units can be up to 34% more energy-efficient for homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily.
Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-and-cool/water-heating/tankless-or-demand-type-water-heaters
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to switch, here are the top signs to look for.
1. Your Hot Water Keeps Running Out
One of the most common frustrations with traditional tank heaters is running out of hot water — especially in larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms. Once the tank empties, you must wait for it to refill and reheat, which can take 30–60 minutes.
Tankless water heaters eliminate this issue completely. Because they heat water instantly, you get endless hot water on demand. If your household regularly struggles with availability, this is one of the strongest signs it’s time to upgrade.
Learn more about Riverside’s plumbing and water heater services:
👉 https://riversidecomfortcare.com/plumbing-services/
2. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old
The average tank-style water heater lasts 8–12 years, according to Energy.gov.
Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating
As these units age, they become more prone to:
Leaks
Rust and sediment buildup
Heating inefficiency
Unexpected breakdowns
Tankless systems often last 20 years or more, making them a longer-term investment. If your current tank is approaching (or past) the 10-year mark, it’s a smart time to consider switching.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Getting Higher
Traditional tank water heaters constantly heat and reheat water in the tank — even when you’re not using it. This is called standby heat loss, and it raises monthly energy costs.
The EPA’s ENERGY STAR® program reports that tankless heaters significantly reduce standby heat loss and can cut utility bills.
Source: https://www.energystar.gov/products/water_heaters
If you notice creeping utility costs, even when your usage hasn’t changed, switching to a tankless system could provide long-term savings.
4. You Notice Rusty Water or Sediment
If your hot water is coming out rusty, discolored, or gritty, it’s a major sign your tank is corroding internally. Sediment buildup is extremely common in older water heaters and eventually leads to leaks or complete system failure.
Because tankless water heaters have no storage tank, they eliminate the risk of tank corrosion entirely.
Additionally, sediment buildup can affect water quality and may increase the risk of contaminants. For more information on water safety, view the CDC’s water quality guidelines:
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/
If you’re experiencing discoloration or sediment, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection and consider upgrading.
5. Your Home’s Hot Water Needs Have Changed
Life changes can affect how much hot water your household uses. You might need a tankless upgrade if:
Your family has grown
You’ve added new appliances (dishwasher, washer, etc.)
You’ve remodeled bathrooms
You use hot water at multiple fixtures at once
You want faster hot water delivery
Tankless systems are flexible, efficient, and ideal for homes where demand changes over time.
How Tankless Water Heaters Benefit River Valley Homeowners
Beyond the five major signs, tankless systems offer several additional benefits:
Longer lifespan (up to 20–25 years)
Lower risk of leaks and water damage
Smaller, space-saving design
Improved efficiency and reduced waste
Environmentally friendly performance
For homeowners wanting a modern, reliable solution, going tankless is one of the best upgrades available.
If you want more details about Riverside Comfort Care, visit:
👉 https://riversidecomfortcare.com/about-us/
Should You Switch to a Tankless Water Heater?
If you’re noticing any of these signs — or multiple — your current water heater may be inefficient, outdated, or at risk of failure. Professional evaluation is always recommended, as a licensed plumber can diagnose whether repair or replacement is the better long-term decision.
Riverside Comfort Care provides expert recommendations and installations for both tank and tankless water heaters across Fort Smith, Van Buren, and surrounding areas.
Call Riverside Comfort Care Today
If you think it may be time to upgrade your hot water system, we’re here to help. Our licensed plumbing professionals can inspect your current unit, discuss your home’s needs, and provide trusted solutions that fit your family and lifestyle.
📞 Call Riverside Comfort Care today: (479) 353-5266
Or contact us online:
👉 https://riversidecomfortcare.com/contact-us/
