If you’re shopping for a new water heater, you’ll want to check out two main types: tank and tankless water heaters. It’s super important to know what your options are and how they differ. Like most things in life, each type comes with its own pros and cons. There’s no “one size fits all” solution here because every household has its own unique water heating needs.
Let your local Lancaster Plumbing & Drain experts help you weigh the pros and cons of each type, so you can feel confident making an informed decision for your home.
All About Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters, also known as storage tank water heaters, are the most common type found in homes. They feature an insulated tank that holds, heats, and stores hot water until you need it. These heaters typically run on electricity or natural gas and come in various sizes, ranging from 30 to 75+ gallons for home use.
Perks of Using Tank Water Heaters
- The Efficiency of Tank Water Heaters Easy Installation – Tank water heaters score big for quick and easy installation, meaning you’ll have lower upfront costs for setup.
- Storage Capabilities – These heaters can hold a lot of hot water and are always ready when you need them, thanks to their “heat and hold” feature.
- Maintenance Requirements – Plus, they’re a breeze to maintain. You usually just need to do regular flushes, which you can handle yourself or let a plumber take care of.
- Extended Lifespan – Did you know that with proper care, a tank water heater can last anywhere from 8 to 10 years? That’s pretty impressive!
Some storage tank water heaters are designed really well and insulated effectively, which helps reduce standby heat loss. This can lower your energy bills every month, so it’s another good reason to pick the right water heater for your home!
The Cost Perspective of Tank Water Heaters
When you’re thinking about a tank water heater, it’s important to look at all the costs involved:
- Upfront costs are usually pretty budget-friendly with tank heaters.
- They need less maintenance, which is a plus.
- Plus, repair costs are lower because they’re simpler to fix.
Tank Water Heaters are Ideal for
- Since tank size limits their hot water supply, tank water heaters are a great fit for small to medium-sized families.
All About Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, or on-demand water heaters, use super-efficient burners to quickly heat water whenever you need it, giving you a constant supply of hot water right away. As the name implies, they don’t need a storage tank and usually run on electricity or gas.
Perks of Using Tankless Water Heaters
- On Demand Supply – With a tankless water heater, you’ll never run out of hot water! That’s why they’re often called “on-demand” water heaters.
- Space Saver – They don’t take up much room and can be installed on walls, making them ideal for homes with limited space.
- Longer Lifespan – Tankless water heaters beat traditional ones with their longer lifespan—almost 15 years, depending on your water type, usage, and maintenance.
Energy Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters
According to energy.gov, if you have a tankless water heater, you could save up to 34% on energy costs compared to regular storage tank heaters. If you use a lot of hot water every day, going tankless might be the way to go. Even though they cost a bit more upfront, you’ll definitely see those savings on your energy bills each month.
The Cost Perspective of Tankless Water Heaters
It’s important to think about all the costs that come with a tankless water heater:
- The initial price is usually higher for tankless models.
- But you can expect to save more each month thanks to their energy efficiency.
Tankless Water Heaters are Ideal for
- With their endless supply of on-demand hot water, tankless water heaters are great for bigger families or larger homes.
- They’re also a popular pick for houses with hot tubs or soaking tubs.
Getting to know the ins and outs of tank vs. tankless water heaters is super important for making the best choice for your home. But no worries—you don’t have to figure it all out on your own! We’re here to lend our expertise and help guide you in the right direction.
We’re always here to chat and answer any lingering questions you might have! Feel free to reach out to Lancaster Plumbing & Drain today (740) 796-8998, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!