Tank vs Tankless Water Heaters
If you’re thinking about a new hot water heater, find out if you should be considering a tankless water heater vs. a storage tank water heater.
Water heaters are one of the highest bills the homeowner faces. You may be trying to make a decision between a tank vs. a tankless water heater. If you’re looking for a water heater replacement, looking at your options for upfront costs as well as maintenance and monthly utility bills is a good idea. There are other options available (like solar-powered water heaters or heat pump water heaters), but generally, homeowners make a decision between a conventional hot water storage tank and a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, are becoming more popular than they have been.
Storage Tank Water Heaters
The most common water heater installation is the traditional storage hot water tank. They can be powered by natural gas, electricity, propane, or oil. Most storage tanks hold 20-60 gallons of water. That water is kept heated for when it is needed by the household.
When an appliance in the house or a hot water faucet is turned on, hot water exits from the top of the tank and cold water enters from the bottom to be heated and stored until it is required. One of the disadvantages of a storage tank water heater is that it can be inefficient, as water is heated whether it is needed or not.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless, whole-house water heaters became more common in North America in the 1990’s and their popularity continues to grow. These tankless models work by heating water on demand. Because they aren’t storing water, they take up much less space and are usually mounted onto a wall.
Tankless water heaters are typically about 30% more efficient than a traditional storage water tank. One of the main disadvantages of the tankless water heater is that there is a higher initial cost for the unit. As well, most homes are currently set up for a tank heater, and connections must be converted for a tankless water heater installation.
Comparing the Differences of a Tank vs. Tankless Water Heater
Upfront water heater costs – as storage tank water heaters have been and continue to be the most traditional water heaters, installation costs tend to be lower. But tankless water heaters are catching up. As more and more people choose to install tankless water heaters, manufacturing costs are going down.
Ongoing water heater costs – Tankless water heaters are generally about 30% more energy efficient. One of the main arguments for switching to a tankless water heater system is saving on energy costs.
Space – as noted, a storage tank water heater will take up more space in your house than a tankless water heater. It may even be possible, in some homes, to install more than one, depending on your usage.
Hot water when you need it – If you have the right water heater capacity for your home, both types should provide hot water when it is needed. A tankless unit may require some changes, as flow rates may be affected. Requiring hot water at several different points in the house – kitchen, bathroom, laundry – will create a low flow. So with a tank, everyone can take a shower at once until the hot water is gone. With a tankless water heater, household members should plan on showering one after another, and you won’t run out of hot water.
Longevity – tankless water heaters generally outlast a storage tank unit. Tankless water heaters have a long-term life span of around 20 years, while a storage tank unit around 10 – 15 years.
Rebates
Some Victoria area households may be eligible for a rebate through FortisBC when they purchase a new water heater. Find out if you qualify.
Energy Star products
Energy Star-certified products use less energy, so they will save you money on your monthly utility bills. Look for Energy Star products on their website.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Don’t wait until your current hot water heater fails. You will want the quickest solution and may not be able to access all of the options available to you. When you know your current water heater is ending its current life, research some water heater costs and look at your lifestyle and the options available. Our licensed plumbers can help you understand the capacity required for your household.
Book an Appointment for a Water Heater Installation
Our experienced, local plumbers in Victoria have knowledge of both storage tank and tankless water heater installation. Give us a call today for an estimate or to discuss your water heater situation.