If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan or no longer keeping up with your household’s needs, you’re likely weighing your options between tanked and tankless models. Both types deliver hot water, but how they do it—and the benefits they offer—are very different.
How Traditional Tank Water Heaters Work
A tank water heater stores and heats a large volume of water in a reservoir, typically 40 to 80 gallons. The water stays hot and ready for use throughout the day, refilling and reheating as needed.
These units are generally less expensive to purchase and install. However, once the stored hot water runs out, there’s a delay while it heats a new batch. Tanked units also take up more space and are more prone to standby energy loss since they maintain heat even when you’re not using hot water.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Tankless units, also called on-demand water heaters, heat water only when you need it. As water flows through the system, it’s rapidly heated by either a gas burner or electric element.
Because there’s no tank, these systems are compact and can be mounted on a wall. They’re highly energy efficient since they only operate during water use. While the upfront cost is higher, they tend to last longer and offer lower monthly energy bills. Keep in mind, though, that if multiple fixtures are running at once, some systems may struggle to keep up.
Key Considerations Before Choosing
Your decision should factor in your home’s layout, household size, and long-term budget. Here are a few things to think about:
- How many people live in your home?
- Do you often use hot water from multiple sources at once?
- Are you looking to maximize energy efficiency?
- Is installation space limited?
- What’s your budget for upfront vs. long-term costs?
We’re Here to Help You Decide
At Able Plumbing Solutions, LLC, we’re a plumbing services team that can help homeowners in Gilbert, AZ choose the right water heater based on their needs, home setup, and efficiency goals. Whether you’re leaning toward a reliable tank model or a space-saving tankless upgrade, we’ll walk you through your options and handle the installation from start to finish.
Need help deciding which system is right for you? Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
