At Comfort Union, we understand the unique challenges Calgary homeowners face during long, frigid winters. Whether you live in a new build in Mahogany or a heritage home in Hillhurst, hot water reliability matters.
That’s why more and more Calgary residents are upgrading to tankless water heaters, compact, energy-efficient systems that deliver hot water on demand without the bulk or standby heat loss of traditional tanks.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, heats water only when you need it no storage tank, no standby heat loss. As soon as you turn on a tap, the unit instantly heats cold water using either gas burners or electric heating elements.
Tankless water Heater Cost By Size
The size of a tankless water heater plays a crucial role in determining its cost and suitability. It is measured by its flow rate, known as gallons per minute (GPM), which directly impacts the unit’s performance.
GPM (gallons per minute) indicates the volume of water the heater can deliver. For instance, a 5 GPM unit can handle one or two fixtures running simultaneously, such as a shower and a sink.
What Are the Key Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater in Calgary Homes?
Endless Hot Water
Enjoy continuous hot water, even during back-to-back showers or laundry loads, ideal for larger Calgary households.
Lower Energy Costs
On-demand heating means no energy wasted on keeping a storage tank warm. Calgary homeowners can save up to 30% annually on utility bills.
Space-Saving Design
These compact, wall-mounted units are perfect for maximizing usable space in smaller basements, utility rooms, or mechanical closets.
Longer Lifespan
With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters last 15–20 years, often outliving traditional tanks by 5–10 years.
Tankless units are less affected by fluctuating outdoor temperatures, making them a reliable option during Alberta’s coldest months.
Top Tankless Brands for Calgary Homes
When it comes to reliable hot water year-round in Calgary’s cold climate, not all tankless water heater brands perform equally. We recommend brands that are proven to handle freezing temperatures, offer high efficiency, and have strong warranty and service support in Alberta. Below are the top-performing tankless brands trusted by Calgary homeowners.
1. Navien Tankless Water Heater
- On-demand hot water with no storage tank
- High efficiency (UEF up to 0.96) – saves energy and reduces utility bills
- Space-saving wall-mounted design
- Wi-Fi compatibility with NaviLink™ (on select models)
- Recirculation system available in advanced models for faster hot water
- 15-year heat exchanger warranty (with professional installation)
$3,000 – $4,800, based on model, venting needs, and home layout
Homes with 2 to 4 bathrooms or families looking to reduce energy bills and free up basement space
NPE-240 Series Offers the best mix of flow rate, smart controls, and efficiency for Calgary homes
2. Rinnai Tankless Water Heater
- Endless hot water on demand (no tank required)
- High efficiency with UEF up to 0.95
- Circ-Logic™ recirculation available for quicker hot water delivery
- Wi-Fi enabled with Rinnai Control-R™ module (select models)
- Durable design suited for cold-climate performance
- 12-year heat exchanger warranty, 5-year parts, 1-year labor
$3,200 – $5,000, depending on model, installation complexity, and venting setup
Mid-to-large homes (2–4 bathrooms) that need reliable performance during Calgary’s cold winters
Rinnai RU199iN – Indoor condensing model with 11 GPM flow rate, ideal for families with high water usage
3. Noritz Tankless Water Heater
- On-demand hot water with flow rates up to 11.1 GPM (great for large households)
- High-efficiency condensing models with UEF ratings up to 0.96
- Built-in recirculation pump on some models (e.g., EZ Series) for faster hot water
- Wi-Fi connectivity available via Noritz Connect app
- Durable stainless steel heat exchanger
- 12-year heat exchanger warranty, 5-year parts, 1-year labor (when professionally installed)
$3,200 – $4,800, depending on the model, home layout, and venting requirements
Homeowners seeking compact, energy-efficient water heaters that are easy to retrofit in older Calgary homes
Noritz EZ111 – A popular condensing model with 11.1 GPM, built-in pump, ideal for 3–4 bathroom homes
What Rebates and Incentives Are Available for Tankless Water Heaters in Calgary?
Calgary homeowners can get up to $5,600 back through the Canada Greener Homes Grant when upgrading to an eligible ENERGY STAR® tankless water heater. You may also qualify for an interest-free loan of up to $40,000 over 10 years to cover installation costs. Comfort Union helps you handle all paperwork and eligibility checks, making it easier to save on upfront costs and energy bills.
FAQ's
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater in Calgary?
Most Calgary homeowners pay between $5,400–$8,800 for a full professional installation, including unit, labor, venting, and any necessary upgrades.
Are tankless water heaters reliable in Calgary winters?
Yes, modern high-BTU, properly-sized tankless units (around 9–11 GPM) work well during Calgary’s cold winters, delivering enough hot water even in sub-zero temperatures.
Does Calgary's hard water affect tankless performance?
Yes, hard water causes scale buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Annual descaling (around $200–$400/year) or a water-softening system is essential for Calgary homes.
How long do tankless water heaters last in Calgary?
With proper maintenance, including annual flushing, tankless systems typically last 15–20 years, significantly longer than the 8–12-year lifespan of traditional tanks
How long does installation take?
A typical installation in Calgary takes 4–8 hours, depending on upgrades like gas line improvements, electrical work, or venting adjustments
Affordable and reliable furnaces offering lifetime heat exchanger warranties. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing cost-effectiveness
Tankless Installation
Affordable and reliable furnaces offering lifetime heat exchanger warranties. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing cost-effectiveness
Affordable and reliable furnaces offering lifetime heat exchanger warranties. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing cost-effectiveness
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees—just upfront, honest quotes.
Top-Tier Brands: We install trusted names like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox, ensuring long-term reliability.
Expert Installations: Certified technicians guarantee precise and efficient setups.
Best Price Guarantee: We’ll beat any competitor’s quote for the same model and warranty.
Lifetime Commitment: Our installations include warranties and ongoing support to keep your system running smoothly for years
