Which Water Heater Is Right For Your Home?

Choosing the right water heater is a big decision for your home. One key fact is that water heaters come in two main types: tank and tankless. This post will explore which type might be best for you, based on several important factors. Keep reading to find out more.

Key Takeaways

Tankless water heaters are more efficient, saving up to 34% on energy bills for homes using less than 41 gallons of water daily. They also take up less space and can last up to 20 years.
Traditional tank water heaters cost less upfront, making them a budget-friendly choice. They can supply hot water to multiple outlets at once but have higher operating costs due to continuous heating.
Installing a gas tankless model might start at about $8,000, which is higher than tank models. However, the long-term savings from reduced energy use can offset this initial investment over time.
Tank models typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years and are prone to leaks due to the large volume of stored water. This could cause potential damage if the unit malfunctions.
Maintenance varies between the two types; tankless units require annual maintenance while traditional tanks may need simpler and less frequent repairs but risk leaking and causing damage.

Key Differences Between Tank and Tankless Water Heaters

Tank water heaters store and continually heat a specific amount of water, whereas tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it passes through the unit. Tank systems require more space for installation, while tankless options are compact and can be mounted on walls or placed under cabinets. The initial cost for tankless units tends to be higher, but they offer long-term savings due to their energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency stands out as a key difference between tank and tankless water heaters. Tankless models are 8-34% more efficient than their tank counterparts. For gas models, the energy factor (EF) reaches up to 0.98 for tankless units compared to a minimum of 0.90 for traditional tanks. Electric tankless water heaters perform even better, with an EF up to 0.99, surpassing the electric tanks’ minimum of 0.92. Homes using less than 41 gallons of water daily can see energy cost savings of up to 34% with a tankless system, while those consuming around 86 gallons save about 14%. These numbers highlight how upgrading to a more energy-efficient water heater can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time, making it an important consideration for homeowners and property managers looking into new water heating systems.

Space requirements

Shifting from energy efficiency, we also need to consider how much room a water heater takes up. Space is often at a premium in homes and businesses alike. Traditional tank water heaters need a lot of it because they store hot water in large cylindrical tanks that can hold 20 to 80 gallons. Usually, you have to place these bulky units in basements or utility rooms. On the other hand, tankless water heaters present a space-saving solution. Their compact design allows for installation in tighter spaces, even on walls. This makes them especially suitable for smaller residences where saving every square foot matters. At Infinity Plumbing Services, we’ve seen first-hand how choosing the right type of water heater based on available space can significantly impact homeowners’ satisfaction with their decisions. Space efficiency should never be overlooked when selecting a home water heating system.

Initial cost vs. long-term savings

Tank water heaters have lower initial purchase costs, ranging from $300 to $1,500. Some models may cost over $2,000. Electric installations can set you back between $2,000 and $3,500. If you choose gas models, expect to pay between $2,500 and $5,500 for installation. On the other hand, tankless water heaters come with a higher price tag upfront. Prices for these units start at around $115 but can go up to $2,500. The highest costs are for whole-house systems. Installing a gas tankless model begins at about $8,000. Despite the high upfront costs of tankless water heaters, they offer long-term savings on utility bills thanks to their impressive energy efficiency compared to traditional tank models that incur higher operating expenses due to constant energy consumption. This makes tankless options appealing for those aiming for reduced monthly expenditures over time. Now let’s look into the advantages and disadvantages of both types starting with tank water heaters.

Pros and Cons of Tank Water Heaters

Traditional water heaters, also known as tank water heaters or storage water heaters, offer several advantages and disadvantages that homeowners, renters, property managers, and business owners should consider before making a decision. Pros:

Lower initial costs: Traditional water heaters generally have a lower upfront cost compared to tankless options, making them a more budget-friendly choice for those with financial constraints.
Better for simultaneous hot water use: Tank water heaters can supply a consistent flow of hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously, making them suitable for larger households or commercial settings where hot water demand is high.
Simpler repairs: These systems are often easier and less expensive to repair than tankless models due to their simpler technology.

Cons:

Higher energy bills: Traditional water heaters typically consume more energy as they continuously heat the water in the tank even when it’s not in use, leading to higher utility bills over time.
Limited lifespan (10-15 years): Tank water heaters have a shorter lifespan compared to tankless units, requiring more frequent replacements and potential disruptions.
Potential leaks: The presence of a large volume of stored hot water increases the risk of leaks and potential damage to the surrounding area if the unit malfunctions.

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters offer several benefits, making them a popular choice for many homeowners and businesses. Here are the key pros and cons to consider when evaluating tankless water heaters: Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Tankless water heaters are highly energy-efficient, as they only heat water when needed, resulting in potential energy savings.
Space-Saving: These compact water heaters take up less space compared to traditional tank models, making them ideal for properties with limited room for installation.
Extended Lifespan: Tankless water heaters can have a longer lifespan of up to 20 years, providing long-term value and reducing the frequency of replacements.
Reduced Risk of Leaks: With no stored water, tankless systems minimize the risk of leaks and potential water damage in properties.
On-Demand Hot Water: Tankless systems provide endless hot water on demand, ensuring a constant supply for households or commercial settings.

Cons:

Expensive Initial Investment: The upfront cost of tankless water heaters is higher than traditional tank models, requiring a substantial initial investment.
Home Modifications Required: Installation of tankless systems may necessitate home renovations or adjustments to accommodate the new unit’s requirements.
Delayed Hot Water Delivery: There might be a lag time before hot water reaches the tap due to the heating process, which can lead to inconvenience during peak usage times.
Limited Availability: In some regions or properties, accessing reliable and skilled technicians for the installation and maintenance of tankless systems may pose challenges.
Annual Maintenance Required: Regular servicing is essential for tankless systems, adding an ongoing maintenance need compared to traditional tanks.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water heater for your home depends on factors like energy efficiency, space requirements, and long-term savings. Tank water heaters offer a lower initial cost and suit households with simultaneous hot water demands. On the other hand, tankless water heaters provide increased efficiency and have a longer lifespan. Consider your specific needs and consult a professional to make an informed decision best suited to your home’s requirements.