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

This practical guide from the local experts at B & B Heating & Cooling lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the differences in their design as well as some advantages and disadvantages of each one. These key details will give you everything you need to make an informed choice that meets your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve figured it out, give us a call for professional tank water heater installation.

Traditional Storage Tank Water Heaters: Tried and True

Let's examine conventional storage tank water heaters first. That large storage tank is the key feature here, ensuring you have an ample supply of water that’s always heated. As soon as you need hot water, a tank water heater can provide it.

Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly Installation: Tank water heaters typically have smaller expenses for installation, thanks to their simpler design.
  • Simplified Upkeep: This simpler design also means fewer potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Continuous Energy Use: Tank water heaters have to keep water continuously heated, which equals extra cost if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Large Overall Size: The tank itself can be a challenge in tight quarters. If your home lacks a basement or utility closet, installation can be a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let's consider tankless water heaters, an energy-efficient alternative that’s relatively modern. Unlike tank models, tankless water heaters operate on-demand. They’re heating up water only when requested, with powerful heating elements as the water flows through the system.

Pros:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they’re not operating nonstop.
  • A Smart, Resilient Design: With regular maintenance from a certified expert, tankless water heaters can offer a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher due to the more intricate design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models do best when provided more routine attention to keep their important parts in sync.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: Older homes aren't always prepared for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can adapt your plumbing to accommodate one, but it might complicate your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

For a majority of homeowners, we’d suggest the higher energy efficiency that tankless water heaters provide. But this may be dependent on aspects including how much hot water you need day to day. You’ll want to think about your specific hot water needs before you make your selection.

  1. Your Average Hot Water Consumption: Gauge how much hot water your household uses on average. As an example, big families who love the outdoors or have pets almost always need a lot more hot water than if you live by yourself.
  2. Sufficient Space to Install It: The size of your home can impact how efficient a water heater operates. Check out all possible installation locations and consult with professionals if your model is the right fit.
  3. Regional Climate: Harsh winters mean much higher energy use that time of year. This isn’t ideal for tankless models, which are most efficient when there won’t be any big spikes in water usage.
  4. Fuel and Electricity Rates: Your local utility rates can render one option more attractive over the other.

Keep in mind, seasoned installers like those at B & B Heating & Cooling can assist you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before delivering a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call 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 complimentary quote? Our professional plumbing technicians can give the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 314-325-7552.