Tankless Vs. Traditional Water Heaters
Water heaters are an essential aspect of every home, providing hot water for washing dishes, doing laundry, and taking showers or baths. When it comes to water heaters, homeowners have two options: tankless or traditional. Each has its unique features and benefits, making it tough to decide which one is right for your home. In this guide, we will discuss the differences between tankless and traditional water heaters, their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision.
Traditional Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters are common in most homes. They come with a tank that stores and heats hot water. The tank is insulated to ensure that water remains hot even when the heater is not in use. When hot water is needed, it first flows from the tank into the pipes and into the taps. Tank storage water heaters come in various sizes, ranging from 20-100 gallons. They are affordable and easy to install, making them an ideal option for most homeowners. However, they consume more energy than their tankless counterparts since they are always heating water, even when you are not using it. Additionally, storage tank water heaters require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than tankless systems.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, don’t have a tank. Instead, they heat the water directly as it flows through pipes when you turn on the hot water tap. This makes them energy efficient since they only heat water when it is required. They are eco-friendly, and you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water since they provide a continuous flow. A tankless water heater is also small and takes up less space than traditional heaters, making it an excellent choice for small homes. However, tankless heaters are more expensive than traditional heaters, and installation can be costly.
Comparing Traditional and Tankless Water Heaters
Installation
Installing a traditional hot water heater is relatively easy, and most plumbers can complete the job within a few hours. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, require specialized installation, and you must hire a professional installer who understands how to install them correctly. These specialized systems require knowledge of how to deploy them correctly to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Space Requirements
The amount of installation space each requires will vary. A traditional tank water heater typically requires more room for installation due to its storage tank. Tankless water heaters on the other hand, only require enough space to mount on a wall as they rely on a burner system that heats up water as it passes through the unit. Therefore, if you’re looking for a more efficient way to heat your home’s hot water without taking up more space, tankless units might be your best option.
Energy Efficiency
To put energy efficiency into perspective, traditional hot water heaters typically consume more energy due to their system of continuously reheating water. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water instantaneously only when necessary. This means that the hot water supply is nearly endless and uses fuel more efficiently; resulting in overall energy savings of up to 34%.
System Lifespan
Another factor that sets tankless systems apart from their traditional predecessor is the longer lifespan: tankless hot water heaters last up to twice as long as tank water heaters, on average. Tank water heaters tend to last between 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters average a 20- to 30-year lifespan with proper care.
Water Heater Installation Services
Choosing between a tankless and traditional tank storage water heater comes down to your personal preference and budget. For homeowners who want an affordable and easy-to-install option, traditional water heaters are an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize energy efficiency and eco-friendliness, tankless water heaters are the way to go.
Regardless of your decision, make sure to choose a reputable plumbing company like Mission Mechanical for installation and maintenance. Contact us today to receive a quote for water heater installation. We will ensure that your water heater works correctly and lasts for years to come.
