There’s much debate about whether tankless water heaters are better than traditional storage tank water heaters. Every home is different, and there are many reasons one type of water heater might be better for your specific situation. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about tankless water heaters versus their storage tank counterparts.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current unit or just have it serviced, Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s professionally-trained staff has you covered. From flushes and repairs to full replacement, Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s plumbers have the experience to handle any model water heater.
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What’s the Difference?
The most significant difference between these two is right in the name. Tank storage water heaters use large tanks to preheat a set amount of water, typically 50 gallons. Once this supply has been used, the water temperature will drop significantly, and it may take some time for hot water to return.
Tankless water heaters use a small heating unit to heat water instantly and on-demand. Because there’s no large tank with these systems, they take up considerably less room. Since tankless options aren’t continually heating water, they’re often more energy-efficient than a reservoir option.
Why Stick With Storage Tank Options?
Despite being the older technology, there are still many benefits to storage tank water heaters. Perhaps the most significant advantage is availability. While tankless water heaters are billed as providing hot water on-demand, it can be difficult for them to keep up when hot water is needed in multiple areas of the house.
Tankless water heaters are typically double the initial investment as a tank water heater, but can also last three times as long, making it the greener option with out the need to replace it. Keep these in mind when choosing the right unit for your home.
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Why Switch to a Tankless Water Heater?
Although installation and repair costs can be more expensive than reservoir units, tankless water heaters can save you hundreds in utility bills each year. They’re an excellent option for guest houses or vacation homes, where hot water isn’t required frequently because they only heat water when needed. Because there’s no tank involved, hot water is virtually endless, meaning longer and hotter showers whenever you want.
As mentioned above, tankless heaters take up much less room than traditional models. Storage tanks are usually upwards of five feet tall and can take up valuable space where extra storage might be beneficial. Most tankless designs are about the size of an electrical control box and look nicer than a bulky tank.
How to Choose?
Picking between the two can be tricky, so be sure to consider your specific needs when making the final decision. Both tank and tankless water heaters come in gas and electric versions – and while electric models tend to be more efficient and cheaper to run, gas versions are more proficient at heating water quickly and thoroughly.
A warranty is also an important consideration. While tankless heaters will save you money long-term on energy bills, the installation costs may eliminate future returns. Be sure to do the math, and consider how long your new heater needs to last to make up for installation costs. In many cases, your warranty will expire before you’ve recouped the upfront costs, so pay close attention to the fine print.
Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s expert plumbers can help you make the best decision for your home and will answer any questions you have along the way. They also offer some of the best deals in the metro on water heaters. Contact Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric today at (303) 993-1550 and ask about their water heater’s lifetime warranty, and schedule a repair or consultation for an upgrade. With highly-trained and knowledgeable staff, you’ll make the right choice for a water heater the first time!
