Overview

In this blog, Knights Plumbing, LLC.’s plumbers will discuss the key features of tank and tankless water heaters, comparing their pros and cons, efficiency, costs, and maintenance needs. By the end, you’ll better understand which option best meets your household’s requirements.

Highlights

Introduction

Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It provides hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning needs. When it’s time to replace your old water heater, there are two main options: a tank water heater or a tankless water heater. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences between them and decide which is best for your home.

How Do Tank and Tankless Water Heaters Work?

The main distinction between tank and tankless water heaters is how they heat and store hot water. A traditional tank water heater has a large storage tank holding a specific amount of heated water, ready for use at any time. On the other hand, a tankless water heater heats water on demand.

Traditional Tank Water Heaters

Traditional tank water heaters use gas or electricity to heat the water in their storage tanks. When you turn on your hot water tap, cold water enters the tank and is then heated by either a heating element or a gas burner at the bottom. As hot water is used, it’s replaced by incoming cold water and continuously heated to maintain the desired temperature.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are compact units that heat water as it passes through a heat exchanger. They use either gas or electricity to quickly heat water without storing it in a tank. When you turn on your hot water tap, sensors in the unit detect the flow of water and activate the heating element or gas burner to rapidly heat the water before it reaches your faucet.

Energy Efficiency: Comparing Usage and Savings

The efficiency of a water heater is measured by energy factor or EF. The higher the EF, the more efficiently your unit converts energy to heat. Tankless water heaters have a higher EF than traditional tank water heaters, making them more energy-efficient and cost-effective in the long run. This is because tankless water heaters do not have to constantly heat and maintain much water, resulting in less standby heat loss.

Cost Considerations: Upfront Investment vs. Long-Term Savings

When evaluating the cost of a water heater, consider the initial investment and the long-term operational costs.

Average Cost of a Tank Water Heater

On average, purchasing and installing a tank water heater has a lower upfront cost than a tankless water heater. However, due to their lower energy efficiency and shorter lifespan, tank water heaters may have higher long-term operational costs. If you prioritize a lower initial investment, a tank water heater may suit your needs.

Average Cost of a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost for purchase and installation. However, due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan (20+ years compared to 10-15 years for tank water heaters), they’ll save you on energy bills and replacement costs.

Hot Water Supply: Meeting Your Household’s Needs

Your household’s size and water usage patterns play a big role in choosing the right water heater.

Here are some factors to consider:

  • Household size: A larger household will require a larger hot water supply, and a tankless water heater may be better suited for meeting those needs.
  • Peak water usage times: If your household often uses large amounts of hot water simultaneously (such as during morning showers), a tankless water heater with a high flow rate may be more efficient in meeting your needs than a tank water heater.
  • Energy source availability: Tankless water heaters are available in electric and gas models. If you don’t have access to natural gas, an electric tankless water heater may be your best option.

Space Requirements: Installation and Flexibility

If your home has limited space, a tankless water heater may be a more practical option. They’re smaller and can be mounted on walls or installed in tight spaces, compared to the larger footprint of a traditional tank water heater.

Another benefit of a tankless water heater is its installation flexibility. It can be placed closer to the point of use, reducing the time it takes for hot water to reach your faucet or showerhead. This can also help reduce water waste while waiting for hot water to travel through pipes.

Water Heater Maintenance Needs: What To Expect Over Time

As with any household appliance, maintenance is important to ensure your water heater functions optimally.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of maintenance needs for both units:

  • Tank water heater: It’s recommended that the tank be flushed every 6-12 months to remove sediment buildup, which can affect efficiency and lifespan. Other maintenance tasks may include replacing the anode rod every 3-5 years and checking the pressure relief valve annually.
  • Tankless water heater: While there is no need for tank flushing, annual descaling is recommended to remove mineral buildup that can affect performance. Also, regularly clean or replace the air intake filters and inspect all connections for leaks.

Which Water Heater Is Right for You?

Deciding between a tank and a tankless water heater depends on your household’s priorities and circumstances. If you have a limited budget upfront, need a steady hot water supply, and don’t mind slightly higher energy costs, a traditional tank water heater may be the best option for you. However, if you prioritize energy efficiency, want to save on utility bills in the long run, have a small household with low hot water demand, or have limited space for installation, then a tankless water heater is likely the better choice. Ultimately, both options can provide reliable hot water when properly matched to your household’s needs.

Let the Water Heating Experts Help You Decide

Still unsure which water heater is right for your home? At Knights Plumbing, LLC., our professionals can guide you towards choosing the best option for your needs and expertly install your water heater of choice. Contact us today at (763) 286-9941 to make your hot water worries a thing of the past.