The Truth About Tank vs Tankless Hot Water Heaters Revealed!
A tank water heater stores hot water, while a tankless heater heats it on demand. Read more to discover the key differences between tank vs tankless hot water heaters!
How they work
Tank water heaters store hot water in a cylinder. They keep the water at a set temperature, using energy to maintain this heat until you need it.
Tankless water heaters heat water only when you turn on a tap or appliance that needs hot water. Cold water travels through a pipe and is instantly heated by gas or electricity as it flows through.
This means no waiting for a storage tank to refill with hot water… it’s ready on demand!
Purchase price and installation
Choosing between a tank and tankless water heater? Let’s break down the purchase price and installation costs to help you decide:
| Type of Water Heater | Purchase Price | Installation Cost |
| Storage Tank (Electric) | $2000 – $3500 | Included in the purchase price |
| Storage Tank (Gas) | $2500 – $5500 | Included in the purchase price |
| Tankless | $525 – $1150 | $800 – $1500 |
Prices vary based on model and region. Electric tanks generally cost less upfront. Gas tanks are pricier but may offer better energy efficiency. Tankless units, though more expensive to install, can save you money over time with lower energy costs.
Ready to make a choice? Think carefully about both initial and long-term costs.
Performance
Tank water heaters store hot water in a large tank. They keep the water warm all day and night, so there is always hot water ready to use. However, if used too much at once, they can run out of hot water quickly.
Tankless heaters heat water on demand. You get an endless supply of hot water instantly without waiting for a tank to refill and reheat. These units are very efficient because there’s no standby heat loss—making them about 24%–34% more efficient than traditional tanks for smaller homes, using around 41 gallons per day.
They also take up less space since they don’t need a big storage tank. However, the flow rate might be lower if multiple fixtures are used at the same time, like running a dishwasher and taking a shower together.
Energy use and efficiency
Balancing energy use and efficiency is crucial when deciding between tank and tankless water heaters. Here’s a quick rundown…
| Criteria | Tank Water Heaters | Tankless Water Heaters |
| Energy Efficiency | Less efficient due to standby heat loss | 24%–34% more efficient; no standby heat loss |
| Energy Savings | Higher energy consumption | Requires 34% less energy, according to EPA |
| Operational Costs | Higher utility bills due to constant reheating | Lower utility bills; heats water on demand |
| Environmental Impact | Higher carbon footprint | More eco-friendly due to lower energy use |
Energy efficiency can tilt the scales in favor of tankless water heaters, as they shine in performance and cost savings.
Pros and Cons of Storage Tank Water Heaters
Most people are familiar with storage tank water heaters, which are reliable and can store a lot of hot water. However, they also take up more space and may have higher energy costs.
Benefits
Tank storage water heaters have many advantages. They are a common choice and offer benefits that make them appealing.
- Lower Initial Cost
Tank storage water heaters are less expensive to buy than tankless models, making them an affordable option for most households.
- Easy Installation
Installing these heaters is straightforward. Any plumber can handle it quickly, saving you time and extra costs.
- Wide Availability
These heaters are readily available in many stores and online shops. You don’t have to search hard to find one that fits your needs.
- Simple Maintenance
Storage tank water heaters are easy to maintain. Basic checks and regular cleanups keep them running smoothly.
- Reliable Hot Water Supply
These tanks store hot water, ready for use anytime you need it. You don’t have to wait for the heater to warm up the water.
- Compatible with Various Energy Sources
You can use electric, gas, or propane as energy sources for these tanks, offering flexibility based on what’s available in your area.
- Durable Design
These heaters can last 10-15 years with proper care, providing years of dependable service.
- Backup Heating
Even if electricity goes out, gas-fired versions continue working, ensuring hot water availability during outages.
- Effective Insulation
Modern tanks have effective insulation, which reduces heat loss and maintains temperature longer, making them more energy-efficient than older models.
Each benefit underscores why tank storage water heaters remain a popular choice among homeowners looking for reliability and convenience in their hot water supply systems.
Disadvantages
Tank water heaters have some clear drawbacks. These can affect your wallet and home space.
- Space Requirements: They need a lot of room, which can be a problem in smaller homes.
- Higher Installation Costs: Setting up these heaters is pricey, especially when retrofitting old systems.
- Shorter Lifespan: Tank models don’t last as long as tankless options and often need more upkeep.
- Leak Risks: As they get older, tanks can leak, leading to water damage and extra repairs.
- Increased Utility Bills: Utility costs are higher because tank models are less energy-efficient than their tankless counterparts.
Tankless water heaters also have some negative points you should know:
- Expensive Initial Investment: The upfront cost for tankless units is higher than for tank models.
- Delay in Hot Water: “Instantaneous” hot water isn’t always instant; there might still be a short wait.
- Complex Installation: Installing tankless systems can involve more complex work and expense, mainly with ventilation or electrical needs.
Both types of hot water heaters have their own challenges.
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand. They can save energy but might struggle with heavy usage.
Advantages
Tankless water heaters offer several benefits over traditional systems. They are designed to be more efficient and space-saving.
- Energy Efficiency
Tankless water heaters use 24%-34% less energy, making them ideal for homes using 41 gallons or less of hot water per day.
- Unlimited Hot Water
Hot water is available on demand, so there’s no waiting for a tank to refill after use.
- Space Savings
Without the need for a large storage tank, they can fit into smaller spaces like closets or under sinks.
- Durability and Longevity
These units often last longer than traditional heaters, sometimes up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
- Less Fuel Usage
Using less fuel to heat the same amount of water makes them more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
- Versatility in Power Sources
Available in both electric and natural gas models, offering flexibility based on your home’s energy setup.
- Reduced Risk of Water Damage
Eliminating a storage tank reduces the risk of leaks that can cause significant damage to your home.
- Instant Heating Technology
Advanced systems heat water as it passes through, delivering hot water quickly without wasting energy on standby heating.
- Cost Savings Over Time
Though initially more expensive, they save money through lower utility bills and fewer repairs or replacements.
- Cleaner Water Supply
With no standing water in a tank, you get fresher hot water every time you turn on the tap.
These advantages make tankless heaters an attractive option for modern homes looking to improve efficiency and convenience in their hot water supply.
Drawbacks
Tankless water heaters have some downsides. They might not be the best fit for every home or situation. Here are the main drawbacks:
- Higher Initial Cost: Tankless water heaters are much more expensive to purchase than traditional tanks, which can be a big initial investment.
- Complex Installation: They often require specialized installation, including upgrades to your home’s electrical system or plumbing, which adds to the cost and complexity.
- Limited Flow Rate: Tankless models can struggle to supply hot water for multiple uses at once, like taking a shower while running the dishwasher.
- Regular Maintenance: These units require regular maintenance to prevent mineral buildup and corrosion, especially in areas with hard water.
- Cold Water Sandwich: A phenomenon where cold water flows before hot water reaches it after repeated on/off cycles, causing discomfort.
- Electric Models’ Energy Need: Electric tankless heaters use a lot of power and may require electrical upgrades, increasing costs.
- Gas Models’ Venting Needs: Gas versions need proper venting to avoid dangerous fumes, necessitating extra work and expense during installation.
- Delayed Payback Period: Due to high upfront costs, it takes longer to recoup the investment through energy savings compared to traditional tanks.
- Size Limitations: Larger households with high hot water demand may not be able to provide sufficient gallons-per-minute performance without installing multiple units.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Tankless models can sometimes deliver inconsistent temperatures due to fluctuating flow rates or high demand periods.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Tank and Tankless Water Heaters
Think about how you use hot water every day. Are energy savings more important than upfront costs?
Energy efficiency
Tankless water heaters are champions of energy efficiency. They save more energy compared to traditional storage tank water heaters. Since they heat water on-demand, there’s no standby heat loss like in storage tanks.
This approach makes them up to 34% more efficient than standard models.
Homeowners can see significant savings with tankless options due to their lower long-term cost. These units use less natural gas or electricity since they only operate when needed.
In addition, advanced energy-saving technology helps keep utility bills down while being kinder to the environment!
Maintenance
Tankless water heater maintenance can be quite demanding. They need regular flushing to remove mineral buildup, and electric tankless models also require descaling every year to keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
On the other hand, storage tank water heaters are simpler to maintain. They should be checked for corrosion or leaks every few months, and the tank should be drained and cleaned yearly. Both types benefit from these check-ups, but traditional tanks usually need less upkeep overall.
Lifespan
Tankless water heaters often last more than 20 years. In fact, they can outlast traditional tank water heaters by twice as long. These units are built for durability and high performance over time.
On the other hand, storage tank water heaters typically have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. They tend to corrode faster due to constant exposure to standing water. Regular maintenance can help but doesn’t change their shorter life expectancy compared to tankless options.
Installation
Installing a water heater can be pricey. Expect to pay between $825 and $1,700 for the job, depending on whether you choose a tank or tankless model.
Installation is simpler for tank water heaters. You only need basic plumbing adjustments and venting if using gas. It usually takes just a few hours to set up. Tankless water heaters are more complex—they require new piping and sometimes electrical work or gas line updates, which can raise costs.
Energy efficiency is key in choosing your type of heater as both aim for it differently: Tanks store large volumes of hot water but lose heat over time while maintaining their temperature, whereas tankless systems heat water only when needed…
cutting down waste energy significantly due to better-on-demand functionality!
Cost
Tank water heaters usually cost less upfront. Electric tankless units, similar to traditional electric tanks, are about $500 to $700. Gas tankless models can go over $1,000. Storage tanks have a lower initial cost and are more affordable.
Installation costs also differ greatly. Tank heaters are simpler to install and cheaper in the long run. But tankless models might need extra work for new gas lines or venting, which adds to the expense.
Appearance
Tankless water heaters hang on the wall like suitcases. They look sleek and modern, making them great for saving space. These units can easily fit in small areas.
Storage tank water heaters, however, have bulkier designs. These large cylinder-shaped tanks take up significant room and tend to be less visually appealing. You often find them tucked away in basements or utility closets because they are not easy on the eyes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hot water heater depends on your needs and budget. Tank water heaters are cheaper to buy and install but can run out of hot water. On the other hand, tankless models cost more upfront but save energy over time.
They also provide endless hot water whenever you need it. Space is another consideration; tankless models take up less room. Think about lifespan, too—tank heaters last around ten years, while tankless ones can go for twenty years or more!
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a tank and a tankless water heater?
A tank water heater stores hot water in a large container, while a tankless water heater heats water on demand without storing it.
2. Is an electric tankless water heater more energy efficient than a traditional tank?
Yes, electric tankless heaters are often more energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed, unlike tanks that keep heating stored water.
3. How does the cost of electricity affect my choice between an electric and gas-powered unit?
Electric units can be cheaper to install but might have higher running costs if electricity prices are high compared to natural gas.
4. Do on-demand or instantaneous heaters provide hot water as quickly as tanks?
On-demand or instantaneous heaters provide hot water almost instantly, whereas tanks may take time to refill and reheat after heavy use.
5. Are there any benefits of using solar-powered options for heating my home’s hot water supply?
Solar-powered systems can save money over time by reducing reliance on grid electricity or natural gas; they’re also environmentally friendly.
6. Will I need regular maintenance for both types of heaters?
Yes! Both types require maintenance—tank models need flushing to remove sediment buildup, while tankless ones should be descaled periodically due to mineral deposits.
