A water heater is a necessary part of every home. When it’s time to purchase a new one, either due to the current one malfunctioning or to upgrade the home, there are two choices. Many homeowners want to know if a tank or tankless water heater is best.
Both types of water heaters have pros and cons, and it’s up to the individual to decide which is the more appropriate purchase. Size, cost, and functionality should all be considered. A plumbing professional can provide all the answers required to make an informed decision.
What is a storage-tank water heater?
A water heater with a reservoir for water is the type that most people are used to seeing in a home. It consists of a large reservoir filled with water and heated by the home’s fuel source. Depending on the capacity, they store anywhere from 20 to 80 gallons of water.
Pros and cons
The water at the tank’s top is heated, and whenever there’s hot water demand, it’s pumped to the desired location. Then, cold water is replaced in the tank’s bottom, and the heating process repeats itself. Therefore, there’s always an available hot water supply, although it needs to be constantly heated.
A storage tank water heater is much cheaper to purchase and install than the tankless style. However, the water needs to be constantly heated, which results in increased energy consumption. In addition, storage tanks are large and take up a lot of room compared to the tankless style. The typical lifespan is approximately 10 to 15 years. There’s also the possibility of the tank leaking water over time.
What is a tankless water heater?
This type of heater only heats the water on an as-needed basis. Like a storage tank heater, the water is heated using the home’s fuel source. However, a tankless water heater only heats the water when needed. This can significantly save on fuel consumption costs.
Pros and cons
Water is heated quickly and supplied to its desired source. This includes energy cost savings since water doesn’t need to be constantly heated by a fuel source. Because the units are small, they don’t take up a lot of space. With no storage tank, there’s never a fear of the reservoir leaking, leading to costly repairs.
Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install than conventional tank-style heaters. However, they have a much longer lifespan and should last around 20 years.
Consult a plumbing professional
A conventional tank-style water heater can save money upfront with its cheaper installation costs, but it could increase energy bills. Tankless styles are more energy efficient and don’t take up a lot of room. A plumbing professional can answer any questions regarding which option is better, tank or tankless.
Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.