Choosing between a traditional water heater with a storage tank or a newer, tankless water heater is something you’ll probably face at some point. After all, water heaters are the unsung heroes 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 Struven Heating & Cooling breaks down tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the unique aspects of their design in addition to some benefits and drawbacks of each one. These key details will ensure you can make an informed choice that meets your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve figured it out, feel free to contact our installers for expert tank water heater installation.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters: The Reliable Choice

Let's examine conventional storage tank water heaters first. That large storage tank is the central feature here, storing a generous supply of water that’s always heated. The moment you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

  • Lower Initial Costs: Tank water heaters typically have smaller expenses for installation, thanks to their straightforward design.
  • Simplified Upkeep: This simpler design also means less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Continuous Energy Use: Tank water heaters have to keep water perpetually heated, which means wasted energy if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Bulky Size: The tank itself is sometimes a challenge in tight quarters. If the property doesn’t have a basement or utility closet, installation becomes a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Cutting-Edge Comfort

Now, let's explore tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s providing more flexibility to homeowners. Unlike tank models, tankless water heaters operate only as required. They’re heating only when you ask for it, using robust heating elements as the water flows through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they’re not constantly running.
  • A Smart, Resilient Design: With routine maintenance from a certified expert, tankless water heaters can offer a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher as a result of the more sophisticated design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models do best when provided more regular servicing to keep their key elements working efficiently.
  • Compatibility Issues with Old Plumbing: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can adapt your plumbing to accommodate one, but it could add further costs to your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

For most homes, we’d suggest the higher energy efficiency that tankless water heaters are capable of. But this also depends on aspects including how much hot water you go through every day. You should reflect on your specific hot water needs before you make your selection.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Gauge how much hot water your household uses on average. For instance, big families who are active in sports or have pets almost always need much more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. Sufficient Space to Install It: The dimensions of your home can influence how well a water heater operates. Consider potential installation locations and consult with professionals if your model is the right fit.
  3. Local Climate: Brutally cold winters mean a water heater that works harder. This isn’t ideal for tankless models, which are most efficient when there won’t be any large fluctuations in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your average fuel or electricity costs can render one option more attractive over the other.

Keep in mind, seasoned installers like those at Struven Heating & Cooling can help you in making a more educated decision. They understand which units meet your specific needs before facilitating a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call Struven Heating & Cooling?

If you're thinking about a switch to a tankless water heater in Crown Point, why not call Struven Heating & Cooling for a free quote? Our expert plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have all the hot water you need. Call today at 219-292-0956.