When you’re shopping for a new water heater, it’s important to know the difference between tank and tankless options. Like most things, each has its perks and downsides. There’s no one-size-fits-all water heater that suits everyone. Every household has unique needs that will determine which model works best for you. Let your Pickerington Plumbing & Drain experts help you identify those needs and walk you through the pros and cons of each type of water heater.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters, also called storage tank water heaters, are the most common type you’ll find in homes. They’re basically insulated tanks that hold, heat up, and store hot water for when you need it. These heaters typically run on electricity or natural gas and come in sizes ranging from 30 to over 75 gallons for residential use.
The Benefits of Tank Water Heaters:
- Easier and quicker installation: Tank water heaters are super simple to install, keeping upfront costs low.
- Lots of hot water storage: These heaters store a large amount of hot water, so it’s always ready when you need it.
- Low maintenance: Keeping up with a tank water heater is a breeze; just follow a regular flushing schedule. Plus, you can do it yourself or call in a plumber if you prefer.
- Lifespan: With a bit of TLC, a tank water heater can last around 8 to 10 years.
The Energy Efficiency of Tank Water Heaters:
Some storage tank water heaters are really well-designed and insulated, which helps cut down on standby heat loss and can lower your monthly energy bills. This is just another reason why picking the right water heater for your home is super important.
The Price of Tank Water Heaters:
When it comes to tank water heaters, it’s crucial to think about all the costs involved.
- They usually have lower upfront costs.
- Maintenance is generally less expensive.
- Plus, their simplicity means repair costs are lower, too.
Tank Water Heaters Are Best for:
Since their supply of hot water is limited to the size of the water heater’s tank, these heaters are ideal for small to medium-sized families.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, use super-efficient burners to heat water right when you need it, so you get hot water without the wait. No need for a bulky storage tank! Typically, these heaters run on either electricity or gas.
The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters:
- Endless hot water: With a tankless water heater, you never have to stress about running out of hot water. That’s why they’re called “on-demand” water heaters! Traditional ones store a certain amount, and once it’s gone, you’re stuck waiting for the tank to refill and heat more. But with a tankless system, you can enjoy continuous hot water as long as there’s fuel or power for it to run.
- Space-saving: Tankless water heaters are great for saving space since they’re usually mounted on the wall instead of taking up floor space. This is especially handy for smaller homes where every square foot counts.
- Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters can last up to 15 years, depending on your water type, usage, and how well you maintain them. In contrast, traditional water heaters typically last around 8-10 years. So, by going with a tankless option, you won’t have to replace it as often, which can help you save some cash in the long run.
The Energy Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters:
According to energy.gov, if you’ve got a household that uses a lot of hot water, tankless water heaters can save you up to 34% in energy costs compared to traditional storage tank heaters. So, if you go through a lot of hot water every day, a tankless option might be just what you need.
Plus, keep in mind that while the initial cost might be a bit higher than a storage tank heater, energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on your bills each month. So, we think it’s definitely worth considering!
The Price of Tankless Water Heaters:
It’s also important to think about all the costs involved with tankless water heaters.
- They do have higher upfront costs.
- But you’ll save more each month thanks to their energy efficiency!
Tankless Water Heaters are Best for:
- Thanks to their constant supply of on-demand hot water, these water heaters are perfect for bigger homes or larger families.
- They’re also a great choice for houses with a hot tub or soaking tub.
Understanding the differences between tank and tankless water heaters can really help you make a smart choice that’s right for your home. I hope this has answered a lot of your questions and gives you the insight you need to head in the right direction!
As always, we are here to answer any questions that you may have. Feel free to reach out to Pickerington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 350-1955 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
