Trying to choose between a conventional water heater with a storage tank and a tankless water heater is something most homeowners face at some point. After all, water heaters are the cornerstone for a reliable source of hot water. And since your plumbing fixtures and home appliances depend on this hot water, it’s always important to carefully compare your options.

This practical guide from your local experts at Bishop’s HVAC lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the unique aspects of their design as well as some benefits and drawbacks of each kind. These key details will ensure you can make an informed choice based on your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve figured it out, give us a call for expert tank water heater installation.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters: The Reliable Choice

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

Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly Installation: Tank water heaters generally have lower up-front installation costs, thanks to their less complex design.
  • Streamlined Maintenance Needs: A streamlined design also leads to fewer potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Nonstop Heating: Tank water heaters have to keep water continuously heated, which inevitably leads to extra cost if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Space Requirements: The tank itself can be a challenge in cramped spaces. If the property is missing a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let's check out tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Distinct from tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re heating up water only when requested, using efficient heating elements as the water flows through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models boast much higher energy efficiency since they’re not operating nonstop.
  • Longer Life Span: With regular maintenance from a skilled professional, tankless water heaters can boast many years of service.

Cons:

  • Bigger Price Tag Up Front: Initial installation costs are higher due to the more complex design.
  • May Need More Upkeep: Tankless models do best when provided more regular servicing to keep their vital components in sync.
  • Retrofitting Challenges: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can modify your plumbing to accommodate one, but it might complicate your installation project.

Deciding on Your Ideal Water Heater: Every Home Has Unique Needs

In general, we’d suggest the stronger energy efficiency that tankless water heaters are capable of. But this also depends on factors such as how much hot water you use each day. You’ll want to have a basic idea of how much water is needed to meet your specific hot water needs before you make your choice.

  1. Your Home’s Usual Hot Water Requirements: Estimate how much hot water your household consumes on average. As an example, big families who enjoy sports or have pets will need much more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. How Much Space the Heater Itself Needs: The size of your home can impact how well a water heater operates. Review all possible installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is an appropriate size.
  3. The Area’s Average Temperatures Through the Year: Brutally cold winters mean much higher energy use that time of year. This reduces the efficiency of tankless models, which are most efficient when there won’t be any big spikes in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your community’s fuel or electricity costs can render one option more attractive over the other.

Don’t forget, experienced pros like those at Bishop’s HVAC can assist you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which makes and models meet your specific needs before delivering a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call Bishop’s HVAC?

If you're considering a switch to a tankless water heater in Elk Grove, why not call Bishop’s HVAC for a no-cost quote? Our expert plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have all the hot water you need. Call today at 916-591-6889.