When it comes to buying a new house or renovating your existing one, you may start feeling like there are a million things to do. What flooring should you get? Which kitchen cabinets should you have installed? Plenty of other cosmetic choices are to be made. So it’s natural to overlook the practical decisions that need to be made, such as which water heater you should get.
A water heater is more important than you may realize. If you know what it feels like to stand in the middle of a shower, with shampoo all lathered up in your hair, only to have the hot water run out, you’ll know the importance of a water heater.
When it comes to water heaters, there are usually two categories: traditional/tank storage water heaters and tankless water heaters.
Tankless Water Heaters
Considered a new technology for modern homes, tankless water heaters currently have a high demand. They typically use high-powered burners to instantly heat water while it flows through a heat exchanger so that it flows out steaming-hot, directly from the faucets and showerheads. With this method, the hot water doesn’t need to be stored in a tank. Tankless water heaters usually use gas or electricity to run. According to Consumer Reports, tankless water heaters are 22% more energy-efficient than gas-powered tank heaters.
Pros
- Helps you save more money with time
- As per the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless heaters are 24–34% more energy-efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters
- Has a longer lifespan than conventional tank water heaters
- Take up less space than conventional tank water heaters. Small in size, they can be conveniently installed anywhere with ease
- You can enjoy hot water whenever you desire
- You won’t have to wait a long time for the water to heat up
Cons
- Higher initial purchase cost than tank water heaters
- Installation can be costly if you’re replacing a tank water heater
Traditional/Tank Storage Water Heaters
Conventional tank storage water heaters have been there for a long time and a lot of homes have these. Comprised of an insulated tank that can hold up to 50 gallons of water, tank water heaters store water until it’s required. They can be powered either through gas or electricity. Natural gas tank water heaters are typically more energy-efficient than electric ones, but they can be more complicated to operate.
Pros
- Have a lower initial cost than tankless heaters
- Simpler operation than tankless water heaters
- Their maintenance and repair costs are less than those of tankless heaters.
Cons
- Higher energy bills
- They occupy more space
- They need to be replaced more frequently than tankless water heaters
- They have a shorter lifespan than tankless water heaters
About Pro Serve Plumbers
If you’re having a hard time deciding which option to go with, our licensed plumber in Fort worth TX at Pro Serve Plumbers can visit your home help you make the right choice. Our plumbing services in Fort Worth, TX offer water heater repair and tankless installation services.
Call us now at 817-244-0614!
