The debate over which type of water heater is better, tankless or tank, continues among homeowners and industry experts. Although they both have the same use, tankless and tank water heaters operate differently. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, while tank water heaters store hot water in a tank until it is needed.
Rick’s Plumbing has been in business for over 25 years. We offer both tankless and tank water heaters, so we can help you decide which option is right for your home.
We’ve compiled a list of the key differences between these two types of water heaters to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your home. We’ll also look at the pros and cons and how each of these systems operates.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are the product of technological advancement. They heat water on demand, meaning they only use energy to heat water when you turn on the hot water faucet. Since they don’t store hot water, tankless water heaters are much more efficient than their tank counterparts.
That is why many homeowners are switching to tankless water heaters. The global demand for tankless water heaters continues to grow at an annual rate of about 6 percent from 2018 to 2022, according to several reports.
There are a few things to consider before making the switch to a tankless water heater, such as:
– The initial cost of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is much higher than that of a traditional tank water heater.
– The cost of upgrading your home’s plumbing.
– You may need to increase the capacity of your home’s electrical system to accommodate a tankless water heater.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
When water passes through the tankless water heater’s heat exchanger unit, it gets heated. The water is then delivered to your home’s fixtures at the desired temperature. The tankless water heater’s flow rate sensor will only be activated when water starts to flow through it.
A tankless unit runs on gas or electricity. Because it only heats water when it’s needed, it saves energy and money on your utility bills. But when you use several appliances that require hot water at the same time, it may reduce the efficiency of your unit. The tankless water heater’s flow rate is checked in the gallons of water it can heat in a minute.
In general, gas-powered water heaters tend to heat water faster than electric ones. Do you need to use several fixtures at the same time? Then a gas-powered tankless unit may be the better choice for you.
Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
Why do people love tankless water heaters?
– Space Saving: Tankless water heaters are small and can be installed in limited space.
– Energy Saving: On-demand water heaters are energy efficient, which will save you money on your utility bills. They can save you up to 70% on your energy bills.
– Longer Lifespan: Tankless water heaters have a long lifespan and require little maintenance. They typically last 20 to 30 years while tank water heaters last 10 to 15 years.
– Instant Heating: When you have a tankless water heater, your water is heated on demand, so you’ll never have to wait for some time to get the warm water you desire.
– You May Qualify For Rebates: Many states and utility companies offer rebates for purchasing energy-efficient appliances, like tankless water heaters.
Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
There are also some drawbacks that you should take into consideration before making the switch to a tankless water heater, such as:
– High Initial Cost: The upfront cost of a tankless water heater is higher than that of a traditional tank water heater. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of upgrading your home’s plumbing and electrical system.
– Limited Flow Rate: If you have a large family or frequently use several hot water appliances at the same time, then a tankless water heater may not be able to meet your hot water needs.
– Sparse Spare Parts: If your unit breaks down, it may be difficult to find replacement parts because tankless water heaters are still relatively new to the market and they need specialized parts.
Tank Storage Water Heaters
The majority of homes have a tank storage water heater. They are the most common type of water heater in the US. As their name suggests, they store hot water in a tank. The size of the tank depends on the model and your family’s needs. The average unit has a capacity of 50 gallons and is about 5 feet in height and 2 feet wide.
You may place your tank storage water heater in your basement, garage, or closet. Many models come with a factory-installed insulation blanket to reduce heat loss and save energy.
How Tank Storage Water Heaters Work
Your tank storage water heater is most likely powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. They continuously heat water and store it in the tank until you need it. When cold water enters the tank, it is heated by pipes (heat exchanger unit). When it reaches the expected temperature, it is stored in the holding tank until you need it.
To keep the water hot, the tank has insulation. Even with this, the water may cool down, so the unit goes through another heating sequence. This goes on until the stored hot water is used up.
The outlet pipe at the top of the tank sends hot water to every faucet and shower in your home. The cold water enters the tank through an inlet pipe located at the bottom. This process happens continuously, so there is always hot water in the tank when you need it. There’s also a thermostat that regulates the water temperature.
Pros of Tank Storage Water Heaters
What are the advantages of a tank storage water heater?
– Low Initial Cost: The initial cost of a tank storage water heater is lower than that of most tankless models. An average unit costs about $250. They are also easier to install because they don’t require any plumbing or electrical upgrades.
– Low Installation And Repair Cost: Tank storage water heaters are easier and cheaper to install and don’t require as many repairs as tankless models.
– High Reliability: Even in the event of a power outage, a tank storage water heater can still provide you with hot water for several days.
– Easy To Find Replacement Parts: Tank storage water heaters are the most common type, so their replacement parts are easy to find.
Cons of Tank Storage Water Heaters
There are some downsides to having a tank storage water heater, such as:
– High Utility Bills: Because they run continuously, tank storage water heaters can raise your energy bills.
– Risk Of Water Damage: If the tank leaks, it can cause significant water damage to your home. Your children or pets may also be at risk of burns.
– Short Lifespan: The average tank storage water heater has a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. Tankless models, on the other hand, can last for 20 years or more.
– Space Requirements: Tank storage water heaters are bulky, so you need to have enough space to store them. They are also heavier than tankless models, so they may require reinforcement when installed.
Bottom Line
Now that you know the pros and cons of tankless and tank water heaters, you can decide which one is right for your home. Consider your needs and budget when making your decision.
Are You Still Unsure Which Type Of Water Heater Is Best For Your Home?
If you’re still not sure which type of water heater is right for you, contact the professionals at Rick’s Plumbing. We can help you choose the best model for your home and install it properly. Contact us today at 203-874-6629.