There are many types of water heaters available on the market today. Conventional, or tank water heaters, hold all of your hot water in a tank. The system works hard to keep this water hot so it is available whenever you need it.
Tankless water heaters are newer and they don’t store water. Instead, they heat the water as it is needed. This can save energy and money because the system isn’t constantly heating water. However, these water heaters cost more to install and may not be the best option for some homes.
Traditional Water Heaters
They cost less. A tank water heater costs less to install upfront and it is a simpler system, so repairs are less complex and generally less expensive.
They are typically easier to install. Most homes are already set up for traditional water heater installation, whereas tankless water heater installation may require some repiping by a professional plumber.
They provide hot water fast. Conventional water heaters store water and keep it warm, so when it gets to your faucet the water is already warm.
They cost more to use. Because they are constantly heating water to whatever temperature you have set, they are constantly using energy.
They take up more space. Although most homes are already built for conventional water heaters, they can take up a lot more space than their tankless counter part.
Most tank water heaters only have enough hot water for about three showers. If you need more hot water than that, you will either have to wait or make do with cold water instead!
Tankless Water Heaters
They last longer. Tankless water heaters last 20-30 years, which is twice the average lifespan of a conventional water heater.
They more energy efficient. Installing a tankless water heater can reduce energy costs by up to 25%, so they cost less to operate and can pay for themselves over time.
They are smaller. Tankless water heaters take up much less space and are typically mounted to a wall or pipe. This is perfect for tiny homes and studio apartments!
They are expensive. Tankless water heater units can cost up to 5 times more than conventional water heaters, repairs and installation are generally more complex and therefore cost more.
They may require repiping to install. Because most homes are set up for traditional water heaters, a professional plumber may need to move around some pipes to properly install.
You may have to wait for hot water. Tankless water heaters work on an “on demand” system, which is what makes them energy efficient. So you may have to wait to get the temperature to your liking.
Some of them can fail to produce enough hot water, especially if you’re using a lot across several systems at once, like taking a shower while someone washes dishes and you’re running your washing machine.
Get Your New Hot Water Heater Today!
In the end, only you can decide which type of water heater is right for you. If you choose a tankless water heater system, we’ll recommend models that we trust in our own home, get everything modified for the installation, and have your hot water back on ASAP.
Call our Colorado Springs plumbing team at One Source Home Service today! We’ll help you get the perfect new hot water heater for your home. Whether you choose a tank or a tankless water heater, we’ll make sure you have hot water again fast!
