Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater: What's the Difference?

A water heater is a long-term investment, so it’s important to make an informed decision when buying one. Knowing about the different types of water heaters available and their various features can help you make a better choice when the time comes to purchase a new one for your home. Tankless and tank water heaters are the two most popular types. Let’s explore some of the major differences between them so you can choose the one that best meets your needs.

What Are Tankless Water Heaters?

Tankless water heaters don’t have a tank to store water. Also known as on-demand water heaters, tankless water heaters quickly heat water with the help of high-powered burners. They then deliver hot water directly to your shower or faucets.

What Are Storage Tank Water Heaters?

Storage tank water heaters have an insulated tank to heat and store water for your needs. The water heats up in the tank and then passes through the water pipes in your home to your faucets and showers. These water heaters have temperature- and pressure-relief valves to help control temperature and pressure conditions.

Tankless vs. Tank Water Heaters

Tankless and tank water heaters are similar in some ways, such as with their power sources, which are either electric or gas. However, they also have many differences, including:

Tankless water heater features:

• They’re more energy efficient than gas-fired storage tank models.
• They give you hot water instantly.
• They last 20 to 30 years.

Tank water heater features:

• They have a simpler functionality
• They have a lower initial cost.
• They don’t cost much for maintenance and repairs.
• They last 10 to 15 years.

Problems With Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters cost more to purchase than some other types of water heaters. They can also have a higher installation cost — call Pluming Outfitters if you need help with your tankless water heater installation. You won’t be able to perform multiple tasks that require hot water simultaneously, such as washing clothes or dishes. This is because you’ll need a lot of hot water, and a tankless water heater can’t keep up.

Problems With Tank Water Haters

One drawback of a storage-tank water heater is having higher utility bills. This happens because these tanks heat and reheat the water to a preset temperature, irrespective of the water temperature you need. They also require more space, as they’re larger than tankless water heaters. With this type of water heater, you’ll have to wait longer to get hot water since they have to heat the entire tank.

While tankless water heaters are popular, some people still prefer buying tank water heaters. Some reasons for this are that you can do multiple tasks when using a storage-tank water heater and they’re easier to maintain and repair. On the other hand, tankless water heaters take up less space in the home, have a longer life span, offer instant hot water, and are more efficient. Once you decide which type of water heater will work for you, contact Plumbing Outfitters for help with all your water heater service needs.

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