Water heaters are an investment, so when it’s time to replace your old water heater or equip your new home, it’s important to consider the cost, efficiency, and longevity. We’ve put together this comparison of conventional water heaters (also called storage water heaters) vs. tankless water heaters and the debate about switching to tankless to help you decide what type of water heater that’s best for you.
Conventional Water Heater
Storage water heaters continuously heat water that is kept in a reservoir (or tank) so that it is ready on-demand, even when there is no current demand for hot water. And you’ll need to be careful as the temperature of the water in reserve is oftentimes far hotter than is safe for use. It may require the user to turn on the cold water just to create a useable temperature. Conventional water heaters are constantly evolving, and despite the need for large (and sometimes bulky) storage tanks, there are now Energy Star models available that are quite energy-efficient. To their credit, conventional water heaters are economical; however, they only have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater is a water-heating system that only heats water when it’s needed. Unlike conventional water heaters, it doesn’t reheat the same tank of water over and over again. Therefore, it doesn’t demand consistent energy. When a hot water faucet is opened, the device immediately heats the water and sends it to the faucet. When the faucet is turned off, the device turns itself off; therefore, your hot water supply does not get cut off. They have a longer lifespan than the conventional water heater, up to 20 years. They are also smaller and more versatile and can be moved, or located, almost anywhere in the house.
The Switching Debate
The primary issue is price. The conventional water heater is relatively inexpensive and easy to install (or replace). Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, cost a bit more upfront but will save you money on energy costs in the long run. If you’re debating whether to switch and would like to explore the features, benefits and costs between conventional and tankless water heaters, give us a call (407) 413-9795 or contact us online. We serve the Orlando, Florida area with quality plumbing service.