Trying to choose between a conventional water heater with a storage tank or a newer, tankless water heater is a decision you’ll probably 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 important to carefully compare your options.

This handy guide from the local experts at B & B Heating & Cooling breaks down tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the unique aspects of their design as well as some advantages and disadvantages of each one. These key details will ensure you can make an informed choice regarding your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve decided, keep us in mind for expert tank water heater installation.

Storage Tank Water Heaters: A Time-Tested Favorite

Let's get to know conventional storage tank water heaters first. That large storage tank is the key feature here, storing an abundant supply of water that’s always heated. The moment you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

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

Cons:

  • Continuous Energy Use: Tank water heaters have to keep water constantly heated, which inevitably leads to extra cost if you’re not constantly using that water.
  • Space Requirements: The tank itself can be a hurdle in smaller spaces. If your home is missing a basement or utility closet, installation can be a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Efficient and Innovative

Now, let's explore tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Compared to tank models, tankless water heaters operate on-demand. They’re heating only when needed, thanks to 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 always on.
  • A Smart, Resilient Design: With regular maintenance from a skilled professional, tankless water heaters can enjoy a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Larger Initial Investment: Initial installation costs are higher due to the more sophisticated design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models will usually need more regular servicing 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 may add another layer of difficulty to your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

In general, we’d recommend the stronger energy efficiency that tankless water heaters can offer. But this also depends on variables like how much hot water you need day to day. You’ll want to think about 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. For instance, big families who enjoy sports or have pets will need much more hot water than if you live by yourself.
  2. How Much Space the Heater Itself Needs: The dimensions of your home can affect how well a water heater operates. Check out all possible installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is an appropriate size.
  3. The Area’s Average Temperatures Through the Year: Harsh winters mean much higher energy use that time of year. This is more noticeable with tankless models, which are better in situations when there won’t be any huge jumps in water usage.
  4. Fuel and Electricity Rates: Your community’s utility rates can render one option more attractive over the other.

Keep in mind, a trained professional like those at B & B Heating & Cooling can aid you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which makes and models meet your specific needs before facilitating a smoother installation process.

Reach Out to B & B Heating & Cooling

If you're thinking about a switch to a tankless water heater in Florissant, why not call B & B Heating & Cooling for a no-cost quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can offer the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 314-325-7552.