Part 2: The Different Types of Water Heaters: Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters

The Different Types of Water Heaters: Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters 

Understanding the difference between tank and tankless water heaters when you’re in the market for a new water heater replacement is essential. As with most things, there are advantages and disadvantages to everything. Keep in mind that water heaters are no different. Is there a perfect water heater product that everyone must have? No. Every household has its own needs, impacting which water heater model is best for you. Let your Five Star Home Services experts help you determine those needs and show you the pros and cons of each water heater type. 

Tank Water Heaters 

Tank water heaters, or storage tank water heaters, are the most common type of water heater found in residential homes. A tank water heater is an insulated tank that holds, heats, and stores the hot water until it is needed. Tank water heaters generally use either electricity or natural gas as their power source. Usually, they range from 30 to 75+ gallon size tanks for residential use. 

The Benefits of Tank Water Heaters

• Easier and quicker installation process: Tank water heaters are simpler to install, making it more affordable in terms of upfront cost. 

• Stores large amounts of hot water: Tank water heaters also have a large amount of hot water ready to use as needed due to the tank’s ability to heat and hold hot water. 

• Minimal maintenance requirements: With a tank water heater, you can easily keep up with its maintenance by simply staying up to date with a regular flushing regimen. As a bonus, a plumbing professional can do this particular task. 

• Lifespan: A tank water heater can last up to 8 to 10 years with proper maintenance. 

The Energy Efficiency of Tank Water Heaters

Some storage tank water heaters are so well-designed and adequately insulated that they can help decrease the standby heat loss rate, thereby reducing your overall monthly energy costs. This is yet another reason as to why choosing the best water heater for your home is crucial. 

The Price of Tank Water Heaters

It’s important to consider all costs involved when it comes to tank water heaters. 

• Tank water heaters have more affordable upfront costs. 
• Tank water heaters have less maintenance costs involved. 
• Tank water heaters have lower repair costs due to their simplicity. 

Tank Water Heaters Are Best for

Because of their set supply of hot water being limited to the size of the water heater’s tank storage, these water heaters are best for small to medium sized families. 

Tankless Water Heaters 

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are made up of highly efficient powered burners that swiftly heat up water as it is needed, delivering it to you on demand. With a tankless water heater, storage is not necessary. Generally, tankless water heaters’ power sources are powered by electricity or gas.  

The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

• A never-ending supply of hot water: With a tankless water heater, you don’t have to worry about “running out of hot water,” which is why they are dubbed as “on-demand” water heaters.  Traditional water heaters store a specific amount of hot water, and once it’s depleted, you have to wait for the tank to fill up and heat more water. With a tankless system, you can have continuous hot water as long as there is fuel or power for the water heater to operate. 

• Space-saving: Tankless water heaters do not take up as much space since they are usually installed on walls as opposed to taking up floor space. This is beneficial for smaller homes where space is limited. 

• Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters can last up to 15 years, based on your home’s water type, your usage and how well they are maintained throughout their life.  In comparison, traditional water heaters usually last around 8-10 years. This means that by choosing a tankless water heater, you won’t have to replace your unit as soon, which can aid in saving you money in the long run. 

The Energy Efficiency of Tankless Water Heaters

Per energy.gov, homes that use tankless water heaters can reap the benefits of up to 34% in energy savings instead of storage tank heaters. This means that if your household goes through a large amount of water each day, a tankless water heater just might be the best option for you. 

On top of that, another thing to bear is that due to their energy-efficient advantages. However, the upfront costs may be higher than a storage-tank water heater, you will see the overall savings come full circle in the form of energy savings each month. 

The Price of Tankless Water Heaters

It’s also important to consider all costs involved regarding tankless water heaters. 

• Tankless water heaters have higher upfront costs. 
• Tankless water heaters have better savings each month due to their energy efficiency. 

Tankless Water Heaters are Best for

• Because of their never-ending supply of on-demand hot water, these water heaters are ideal for those with bigger houses or large families. 
• They are also recommended for houses with a hot tub or soaking tub. 

Knowing the ins and outs of a tank versus tankless water heaters will make all the difference in your ability to confidently make an informed decision that works best for your household. Hopefully, this has helped answer many of your questions and has provided better insight to steer you in the right direction. 

As always, we are here to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact Five Star Home Services by calling us today at (833) 405-8009 or click here to schedule an appointment!