Making the decision between a traditional water heater with a storage tank or a newer, tankless water heater is something you could face at some point. After all, water heaters are the cornerstone for a reliable source of hot water. Because your plumbing fixtures and home appliances count on this hot water, it’s always crucial to carefully compare your options.

This useful guide from the local experts at Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating breaks down tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the distinct elements in their design in addition to some pros/cons of each one. These key details will ensure you can make an educated choice based on 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 get to know conventional storage tank water heaters first. That sizable storage tank is the central feature here, ensuring you have a generous supply of water that’s continually heated. Whenever you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

  • Lower Initial Costs: Tank water heaters will have smaller expenses for installation, thanks in part to a simpler design.
  • Easier Maintenance: A streamlined design also means less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Nonstop Heating: Tank water heaters have to keep water continuously heated, which means extra cost if you’re not frequently using that water.
  • Large Overall Size: The tank itself is sometimes a hurdle in cramped spaces. If your home is missing a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Cutting-Edge Comfort

Now, let's explore tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Compared to tank models, tankless water heaters operate only as required. They’re heating up water only when you ask for it, with efficient heating elements as the water flows through the system.

Pros:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: Tankless models boast much higher energy efficiency since they aren’t constantly running.
  • Surprisingly Durable: With proper maintenance from a skilled professional, tankless water heaters can boast many years of service.

Cons:

  • Larger Initial Investment: Initial installation costs are higher due to the more complex design.
  • Higher Service Needs: Tankless models will usually need more periodic maintenance to keep their vital components working efficiently.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can modify your plumbing to accommodate one, but it may add another layer of difficulty to your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

For a majority of homeowners, we’d recommend the stronger energy efficiency that tankless water heaters can offer. But this is based on aspects including how much hot water you use each day. You should reflect on your specific hot water needs before you make your selection.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Assess how much hot water your household goes through on average. As an example, large families who enjoy sports or have pets usually need a lot more hot water than if you live by yourself.
  2. Sufficient Space to Install It: The layout of your home can affect how efficient a water heater operates. Review potential installation locations and consult with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. The Area’s Average Temperatures Through the Year: Brutally cold winters mean your water heater will need more energy. This isn’t ideal for tankless models, which are most efficient when there won’t be any huge jumps in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your average fuel or electricity costs can render one option more appealing over the other.

Keep in mind, a trained professional like those at Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating can help you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before delivering a smoother installation process.

Reach Out to Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating

If you're thinking about a switch to a tankless water heater in Kankakee, why not call Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating for a no-cost quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 815-933-8213.