Choosing between a classic water heater with a storage tank or a newer, tankless water heater is something most homeowners face at some point. After all, water heaters are the cornerstone for a reliable source of hot water. Because your plumbing fixtures and home appliances count on this hot water, it’s always important to carefully compare your options.

This practical guide from the local experts at Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the differences in their design as well as some pros/cons of each type. These key details will give you everything you need to make an educated choice regarding your home’s hot water needs. Once you’ve made your decision, feel free to contact our installers for professional tank water heater installation.

Storage Tank Water Heaters: A Time-Tested Favorite

Let’s examine conventional storage tank water heaters first. That ample storage tank is the key feature here, holding onto a generous supply of water that’s constantly heated. As soon as you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

  • More Affordable Setup: Tank water heaters generally have smaller expenses for installation, thanks to their less complex design.
  • Streamlined Maintenance Needs: A streamlined design also means less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Nonstop Heating: Tank water heaters have to keep water continuously heated, which means extra cost if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Bulky Size: The tank itself could become a problem in cramped spaces. If your home is missing a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let’s explore tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Compared to tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re generating hot water only when needed, using robust heating elements as the water comes through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models can improve your plumbing’s energy efficiency since they’re not operating nonstop.
  • Longer Life Span: With proper maintenance from a certified expert, tankless water heaters can boast a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher because of the more complex design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models may require more periodic maintenance to keep their vital components functioning smoothly.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: Older homes aren’t always prepared for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can retrofit your plumbing to accommodate one, but it may add another layer of difficulty to your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

For most homes, we’d recommend the higher energy efficiency that tankless water heaters provide. But this also depends on aspects including how much hot water you go through every day. You’ll want to think about your specific hot water needs before you make your choice.

  1. Your Home’s Usual Hot Water Requirements: Estimate how much hot water your household goes through on average. As an example, large families who are active in sports or have pets usually need much more hot water than if you live by yourself.
  2. Space for Installation: The layout of your home can influence how efficient a water heater operates. Check out all possible installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. Regional Climate: Harsh winters mean a water heater that works harder. This is more noticeable with tankless models, which are better in situations when there won’t be any large fluctuations in water usage.
  4. Utility Costs: Your average energy prices can make one option more attractive over the other.

Don’t forget, seasoned installers like those at Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. can aid you in making a more educated decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before delivering a smoother installation process.

Reach Out to Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc.

If you’re considering a switch to a tankless water heater in Branchville, why not call Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. for a free quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have all the hot water you need. Call today at 862-345-6896.