Which Is Better: A Tankless or Tank Water Heater?

Looking to replace your old hot water heater? You might wonder whether to shop for a new type of water heater or stick to tradition. Tankless or tank water heater: what should you install next in your home?

Mr. Rooter explores the electric and gas models of tankless water heater appliances and their storage-tank water heater counterparts. We'll compare energy efficiency, performance, and costs below.

Should You Choose a Tankless or Tank Water Heater?

How much more complex could water heaters get? Not only must you choose between a natural gas water heater and electric water heaters, but you must also pick between tankless and tank. Find out how the two compare beyond obvious differences below.

The Traditional Tank Storage Water Heaters

Storage tank water heaters typically feature a large tank that stores hot water. A gas or electric tank water heater fills the tank with water, ignites its heating element, and heats water multiple liters at a time. This leaves you with a generous but limited amount of warm water at any given time.

How a Tankless Water Heater Differs

Gas and electric tankless water heaters typically produce hot water on demand. In other words, you turn on your plumbing fixtures, like showers or sinks, and your tankless water heater will quickly heat up the water supply. Both electric and gas tankless water heaters constantly source water into your fixtures until you turn off the supply.

Weigh the Positives and Negatives of Tankless Water Heaters

So, which works better: a tank or tankless water heater? First, let's discuss the pros and cons of tankless water heaters. On the plus side, whole-house tankless heaters are:

• Energy efficient: While an electric water heater is more efficient than a natural gas tankless water heater, both options save more energy than a tank storage water heater. A tankless heater can save up to 34% of energy.
• Space saving: A tankless water heater doesn't feature that bulky tank. You can use the additional space for storage instead.
• Wallet-friendly: While newer tankless water heaters might cost more upfront, they can save money in the long term. They last much longer than tank water heaters generally do and use less energy and water.
• Fast working: You don't have to wait an eternity for cold water to warm up! Tankless water heaters work on demand, supplying hot water almost immediately.

Some people might be put off tankless systems because they typically cost more upfront. They may also take longer to install and might struggle to meet high household demands.

How Do Storage Tank Water Heaters Measure Up?

Why might you stick with tank water heaters instead?

• Familiarity: You already know how tank hot water heaters work, from the heat exchanger to the gas valve. You can easily inspect your appliance and report issues.
• Heating water in large quantities: You might wait for a tankless heater to warm water up. However, a fully heated tank produces hot water instantly.
• Low installation costs: Tank water heaters sometimes cost less since they are less technical.

What you save in installation fees you will eventually pay back in energy costs. Since a tank storage water heater must constantly warm several liters of water, it eats into your monthly energy bills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heaters

Want to learn more about how a tankless water heater compares to traditional models? We answered some questions below to help you decide between a tankless or tank water heater.

Who Shouldn't Purchase Tankless Water Heaters?

People with high hot water demands shouldn't purchase tankless water heaters unless they install multiple tankless models or supplement their tank storage water heaters with a tankless model.

Does a Storage Tank Heater Waste More Water?

Yes, a traditional tank water heater can waste more water than a gas or electric tankless water heater. On-demand water heaters only draw and heat water when you turn on the faucet.

Do You Have to Flush Tankless Heaters?

Yes, you have to flush tankless water heaters annually. Like storage tank models, they develop mineral buildup which hinders their performance.

Mr. Rooter Can Help You the Best Water Heater for Your Home

Can't decide whether a tankless or tank water heater will work best for your household and lifestyle? Mr. Rooter can help you choose. We can retrofit your current setup for a new tankless water heater or replace your old tank heater with a new one. Call to schedule an estimate with our plumbers.