Making the decision between a classic water heater with a storage tank and a tankless water heater is a decision you’ll probably face at some point. After all, water heaters are the gold standard for a reliable source of hot water. And since your plumbing fixtures and home appliances count on this hot water, it’s always crucial to carefully compare your options.

This useful guide from your local experts at GLR Mechanical breaks down tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the differences in their design as well as some benefits and drawbacks of each kind. These valuable insights will give you everything you need to make an educated choice based on your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve decided, keep us in mind for professional tank water heater installation.

Storage Tank Water Heaters: A Time-Tested Favorite

Let's take a closer look at conventional storage tank water heaters first. That sizable storage tank is the standout feature here, storing a generous supply of water that’s constantly heated. Whenever you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

  • Lower Initial Costs: Tank water heaters generally have lower up-front installation costs, thanks to their less complex design.
  • Easier Maintenance: A streamlined design also means fewer potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Higher Energy Use: Tank water heaters must keep water perpetually heated, which inevitably leads to extra cost if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Large Overall Size: The tank itself is sometimes a challenge in tight quarters. If the property lacks a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Efficient and Innovative

Now, let's check out tankless water heaters, an innovative alternative that’s relatively modern. Unlike tank models, tankless water heaters operate on-demand. They’re generating hot water only when requested, using robust heating elements as the water comes through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they aren’t operating nonstop.
  • Longer Life Span: With routine maintenance from a skilled professional, tankless water heaters can boast a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher due to the more complex design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models do best when provided more periodic maintenance to keep their vital components working efficiently.
  • Compatibility Issues with Old Plumbing: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can retrofit 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 a majority of homeowners, we’d suggest the greater energy efficiency that tankless water heaters are capable of. But this also depends on variables like how much hot water you go through every day. You’ll want to think about your specific hot water needs before you make your choice.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Estimate how much hot water your household goes through on average. For instance, larger families who love the outdoors or have pets almost always need significantly more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. Sufficient Space to Install It: The dimensions of your home can affect how effectively a water heater operates. Check out potential installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. The Area’s Average Temperatures Through the Year: Long winters mean a water heater that works harder. This isn’t ideal for tankless models, which are best suited when there won’t be any large fluctuations in water usage.
  4. Utility Costs: Your local utility rates can render one option more attractive over the other.

Keep in mind, seasoned installers like those at GLR Mechanical can help you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before delivering a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call GLR Mechanical?

If you're considering a switch to a tankless water heater in Duryea, why not call GLR Mechanical for a free quote? Our professional plumbing technicians can offer the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 570-309-0403.