Smart tank-less technology in plumbing refers to the use of electronic controls and sensors to automate the operation of faucets, showers, baths, kitchen sinks, and other water fixtures in homes. Smart tankless technology can operate a variety of fixtures at once for increased efficiency. In addition, smart tankless systems can be programmed to operate only when necessary rather than running continuously. While smart tankless systems are not widely used yet, they are expected to become more prevalent in the coming years as a result of their many benefits. This article covers everything you need to know about smart tank-less technology in plumbing including its advantages, risks, potential problems and alternatives.
What is Smart Tank-Less Technology?
Smart tank-less technology is a suite of electronic controls and sensors that automate the operation of faucets, showers, baths, kitchen sinks, and other water fixtures. This article covers only the use of electronic controls and sensors, not the installation of sensors in other plumbing fixtures. These systems use sensors to detect when water is running in the fixtures being controlled and adjust the flow to compensate.
In addition, some smart tankless systems can be programmed to run only when necessary, which can increase energy efficiency. Some smart systems allow users to schedule activities such as a trip to the grocery store or a laundry cycle. However, smart tankless technology is not widely used yet, and it is too early to predict when it will become more common.
Advantages of Smart Tank-less Technology
Increased Efficiency: Many smart tankless systems can adjust the water pressure to match the amount that you need for a given task, such as shaving, washing dishes, or taking a shower. This will save water because you won’t need to manually turn on the faucet as much.
Reduced Running Costs: Although it is not widely done yet, the potential for smart tank-less technology in plumbing to reduce running costs is very exciting. You can set schedules for when your water system is active or inactive, so it will only run when you need it. This can dramatically reduce the amount of water your system uses.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: Smart tankless systems can be programmed to turn off when they are not in use, which will significantly reduce the amount of time the system is active. This can also save on maintenance costs.
Increased Safety: For fixtures such as showers and baths, the shut-off valve can be placed out of reach so that children or others cannot turn it on accidentally, increasing safety.
Risks of Smart Tank-less Technology in Plumbing
Installation and Service Issues: Installation of smart tankless systems can vary widely depending on what model you choose. If you choose the wrong system, it can be difficult to troubleshoot issues and repair them when they are broken.
Short-Circuit Damage: If you use a special type of sensor to turn off a faucet when it is not in use, there is a risk it could short-circuit and cause a water leak or burnout.
False Alarm: Some smart tankless systems use sensors to detect whether a fixture is in use and then shut off the water when it is not used. Unfortunately, some sensors can malfunction, causing the system to shut off the water when no water is being used. This is known as a false alarm, which can waste water and be a nuisance.
Interference Issues: Some older fixtures have been in use for many years and have an electronic circuit board inside that can become damaged if a sensor is pushed too far, causing the system to shut off. In this case, the system will need to be replaced.
When will smart tankless technology be common?
We can expect to see widespread adoption of smart tank-less technology in plumbing when the cost of the technology becomes less expensive than conventional systems. Currently, smart tankless technology is available only on a limited number of models that are more expensive than conventional tank-less systems. However, there is a push to make these technologies more common. Over the next several years, the cost of these systems is expected to come down, making them more accessible to homeowners. Of course, we will also continue to see advances in technology, meaning that the cost of these systems will continue to fall.
Potential Problems with Smart Tank-less Technology in Plumbing
Installation and Service Issues: Smart tank-less technology can still fail during installation or experience issues such as false alarms or interference from damaged components in older systems. If this happens, the system will need to be replaced.
Short-Circuit Damage: Some smart tankless systems use sensors that are designed to short-circuit and allow for a small amount of water to leak out. If a sensor is pushed too far and short-circuits, the water could leak out, causing damage to the floor or walls.
False Alarm: Some smart tank-less sensors are designed to detect whether a fixture is in use and then shut off the water when it is not used. Unfortunately, some sensors can malfunction, causing the system to shut off the water when no water is being used. This is known as a false alarm.
Interference Issues: Some older-model valves have electronic circuits inside that can become damaged if a sensor is pushed too far, causing the system to shut off. In this case, the system will need to be replaced.
Alternatives to Smart Tank-less Technology in Plumbing
For some people, smart tankless technology is worth the investment. However, it is important to consider whether it is right for your plumbing system. Below are a few things you can try before considering smart tankless technology in plumbing.
Upgrade Your Water Meter: Many people upgrade their water meter to a higher model when it comes time to replace their water meter. This will provide you with more accurate readings that will help you troubleshoot potential water issues.
Use a High-Flow Faucet: New high-flow faucet models are now available that can reduce water usage by up to 90%. This will help offset any water reduction that comes from using sensors in your smart tank-less system.
Check Your Home’s Energy Performance: New smart tankless systems can be programmed to be energy-savvy. For example, they can turn off when they are not in use and operate only when needed. You can check your home’s energy performance (such as your heating or cooling costs) and make adjustments as necessary.
Conclusion
Smart tankless technology offers potential benefits for homeowners, such as increased efficiency, reduced running costs, and reduced maintenance costs. However, it is not widely used yet, and it is too early to predict when it will become more common. For now, homeowners can try some of the above-mentioned tips to see if they can reduce their water usage and heating or cooling costs without investing in smart tank-less technology.
