Just like a Bryant® heating or cooling system, replacing your water heater is a big investment. At Martens Plumbing & Heating, we want to make sure you pick the best unit possible for your home. Our experts are breaking down the differences between a tank vs tankless water heater below. Discover the pros and cons for yourself, then call our experts at 262-363-7146 to set you up with a new system.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
Tankless or instantaneous water heaters work only when hot water is needed. When you turn on your faucet, water runs through the system, where it’s heated by either gas or electricity (depending on your fuel source). You get a constant supply of hot water, ready to use when you need it, without wasting energy heating up a big tank.
Tankless Water Heater Pros and Cons
The top advantage of a tankless system is energy efficiency. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, homes that use less than 41 gallons of water daily are up to 34 percent more efficient with a tankless water heater vs a tank unit. Other benefits include:
- Lower energy bills due to efficient operation
- A compact design—perfect for installation in small areas or homes that need more space
- Longer system lifespan (usually last 20 to 30 years)
However, there is a downside to tankless water heaters. While they will save you in terms of energy use, these systems will cost more upfront than a more traditional heater. If you’re switching from a tank unit to tankless, you’ll also be paying more in terms of installation, as a plumber will need to retrofit your pipes for the new system type. And while you’ll get instant hot water when running the washing machine or taking a shower, a tankless unit will have a hard time keeping up with demand if you choose to do both at the same time.
Traditional Water Heater Pros and Cons
The advantages and disadvantages of a tank heater are almost the exact opposite of a tankless unit:
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Easier (and cheaper) to install in homes already fitted for storage tank systems
- Simple operation and fewer moving parts make for easy maintenance and repairs
- Ideal for multi-tasking (for example, doing laundry while washing the dishes)
Cons
- Inefficient operation
- Bulky design that takes up a lot of floor space
- Usually need replacing more often than tankless systems
Are Tankless Water Heaters Better?
Whether or not a tankless heater is worth it depends on your budget and home layout. But one thing is for sure: the licensed and bonded plumbers at Martens Plumbing can help you decide which system is right for you. Call us today at 262-363-7146 or contact us online.
